The Washington city council is considering expanding the power to issue citations for ordinance violations. The council could vote on the measure Monday night.
Currently in Washington, only the police department can issue citations for violating city rules, like, for example, abandoning a vehicle. But, that could change. For example, the proposal would allow the fire department, building commissioner, and animal control to hand out violations.
Washington Common Council Member Michael Singleton says the city noticed some police officers were spending a lot of their time on citations.
"We didn't want our police officers' time to be writing citations for abandoned vehicles and such," Singleton says. "We wanted them to have more time on the streets, and you know, protecting our citizens here in town."
So far, Singleton says he hasn't heard any negative comments, but the council will listen to public comment. The ordinance needs a four to seven vote in favor to pass.