Chattin' with the Chief: Traffic and Canine Control

As the summer has reached its peak and starts heading towards fall, the Saratoga Police Department has seen an increase in traffic violations, though not the type one might think.

According to Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris, his department is seeing an increase in unlicensed ATVs, motorcycles and UTVs (side-by-sides) on the streets of Saratoga. Additionally, many times they are being driven by unlicensed drivers.

“We are starting to increase our patrols to address that,” said Morris. “[I] Just want to make sure that everybody knows, if you’re driving a motorcycle, an ATV or a side-by-side it has to be licensed [and] registered and it has to be operated by a licensed driver.”

Morris said the unlicensed drivers have been a combination of drivers too young to be licensed or those who, for whatever reason, have had their license revoked.

“I’m an old motor head and I think that ATVs, motorcycles and side-by-sides are a great thing to do but it’s got to be done under the right circumstances and the right places and areas,” said Morris.

The need for a licensed driver with other vehicles, such as golf carts, is specifically addressed in municipal code, according to Morris. Indeed, Section 10.36.050 of the Saratoga Municipal Code prohibits the operation of golf carts or the parking of golf carts in any public street or roadway unless it is being operated by a licensed driver. Additionally, golf carts are required to display a slow moving triangle on the back.

The increase in other vehicle traffic doesn’t mean the Saratoga Police Department won’t be stepping up traffic enforcement, though.

“Because we’ve been able to bring our patrol staff up to a full staff and we’ve got some part-time staff, we’re certainly able to be a lot more proactive with traffic enforcement,” said Morris. “The areas of concern we have: 1st Street is always an issue, Bridge Street (Avenue) is always an issue, Pic Pike (Road) is always an issue. Just trying to regulate the traffic, slow the traffic down and make sure they’re adhering to the speed limit signs in town.”

Along with traffic issues, said Morris, his department is seeing an increase in dog and animal related calls.

“We’re having a few more complaints about dogs barking and animal noises. Responsible pet ownership includes making sure your dog is at home, safe and licensed so that if it does get out we can easily identify the owner. Be courteous of your neighbor,” said Morris. “Allowing a dog to bark when it’s interfering with somebody’s sleep, particularly at night, it’s just not neighborly. There are ordinances on the books that we can use.”