10.05.020 Declaration of purpose.
A. It is the purpose of the nonoperational vehicle ordinance (hereafter “NOVO”) to safeguard Tribal residents, protect property, and prevent damage to the environment on Wiyot Tribe Reservation. This chapter will also promote the public welfare by guiding and regulating the activities in regards to abandoned and nonoperational vehicles on Wiyot Tribe Reservation.
B. The storage of abandoned and nonoperational vehicles poses both human and environmental health risks to the community members of Wiyot Tribe and the surrounding community. The risks associated with the improper storage/maintenance of abandoned and nonoperational vehicles include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Abandoned and/or nonoperational vehicles are often utilized to store materials such as garbage and other refuse, which may attract pests and become disease vector breeding grounds.
2. Pollutants like gasoline/diesel fuel, oil, transmission fluid, and power steering/brake fluid can leak, polluting soil, ground and surface water.
3. Abandoned and/or nonoperational vehicles contain other hazardous materials that may harm the environment (i.e., lead-acid batteries and mercury switches).
4. Abandoned and/or nonoperational vehicles can be the target of arson and vandalism.
5. Abandoned and/or nonoperational vehicles are visual blights, affecting the aesthetic value of the Wiyot Tribe Reservation. [Ord. 12-01 Art. II, approved 12/1/01.]