No ticket snub for councilman

Huntington Beach City Councilman Devin Dwyer was angry about the city’s street sweeping policy, but discussed options instead of resigning during a meeting Monday.

Dwyer was upset over receiving his 12th parking ticket after failing to move his car in time for the street sweeper. He told the press he would resign during the meeting if he couldn’t change the street sweeping policy and would rip up his ticket, but during the meeting he said that would be “a bit theatrical.”

Some people were calling his antics an abuse of power, but Dwyer said he would be up at the podium trying to get the system changed even if he were not an elected official.

“My point is, if I can’t effect changes as a City Council member, why am I here?” Dwyer said.

Dwyer said the ticketing of residents and the two police vehicles that follow the street sweeper are a “revenue generator.”

“I think it’s egregious that this city continues to fine us every time the sweeper truck goes by,” he said.

The problem is residents don’t move their cars unless they ticket offenders, said Police Chief Ken Small. Mayor Pro Tem Cathy Green said she understands Dwyer’s frustration, but added that when he calms down, he will see the sweeping has an important purpose.

Dwyer discussed a warning system for residents and promised to bring the issue back to the council.