News : Owner of Cafe 218 site says 'No more truck parking'

No Parking: The owner of the former Cafe 218 site wants drivers to keep their trucks off this lot.

Owner's of the old Hwy 218 Café in Vinton are asking for the assistance of the Vinton Police Department, and the public in getting the word out about trucks parking there.

"We've been contacted by the owners of this property about problems they're having with trucks driving through and parking on the property. He's made it clear that this is damaging the pavement on the property, and that no one has permission to park there." Vinton Police Chief Jeff Tilson said today. "Signs have been posted, and the owner's have been trying to make contact with individual truck operators on an individual basis to get the word out on this." Tilson added

Semi Tractor/Trailer operators are reminded that these types of vehicles cannot be parked on any City street or parking lot in Vinton, and that if they're going to park off-street, they need to make sure they have permission of the property owner before doing so. "And, I'd suggest you get that permission in writing, and keep it in the cab of the truck along with your other papers in case it comes up."

"We've had situations where tractor trailer rigs have been parked in school parking lots, business parking lots, and anywhere they choose without permission from the property owner or persons in charge or control of the properties." Tilson added "Worst case scenario, the property owner can have your rig towed away without any prior notice, and at your expense."

Vinton Police, at the request of the property owner, will begin tagging any tractor or trailer found on the property as Abandoned Vehicles, which subjects the owner or operator not only to towing and storage expenses, but to a substantial fine as well.

"We want to get the word out as quickly as possible before any more damage to the lot occurs, and before anyone has to find out how expensive it can be." Tilson added