Last Saturday morning, I had the honor of leading the HOPES Walk, which began at Olin Park.
There was a wonderful turnout, despite the dreary weather and, therefore, parking was at a premium.
The only open stalls were designated for boat users. Yes, it was the opening fishing weekend, but there were very few anglers out on the water at 9:30 that morning. I will be the first to admit, there is a sign posted, to alert people of the parking regulations, and, yes, it indicates the possible consequences. However, I (along with several other HOPES walkers) needed a place to park and didn't think twice. After all, it was a fundraiser for a non-profit organization and was only going to be a couple of hours. HOPES stands for Helping Others Prevent and Educate about Suicide.
Well, to my dismay (and several others) I found a piece of paper on my windshield following the event. The City of Madison issued me a $25 parking citation. My first parking ticket in my 15-plus years of driving. Sure, it's disappointing to tarnish my "record", but that's not the point.
Since the walk our newsroom has received comments from other participants, who are also frustrated that the city would ticket people trying to give back to our community. I realize laws are in place for a reason. But, I also feel there are exceptions to the rule. This, I feel, is one of those exceptions.
It would be a different story if there were a ton of boaters using the parking lot. It would be different if there weren't signs up promoting the HOPES Walk. (In other words, the ticket-issuer knew there was an event going on at the park.) It would be different if I left my car there beyond a reasonable time frame. It would be different if I was the only one who got a ticket.
As a public figure, I do not expect special treatment. I will be paying the $25 ticket and comply, with the law, like everyone else. It's my hope that additional consideration will be given when issuing such violations in the future. Several of the HOPES participants were from out-of-town, is this the kind of Madison welcome we expect?
Thanks for letting me vent.... am I over-reacting?
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