Permits? We Don't Need No Stinking Permits!

The DPW clerk at City Hall just confirmed to me that Sal's Contracting was not issued a $25 Sidewalk Permit to block the sidewalk in front of 50 N. 5th Street, as they have been doing for well over a week.  Sal absolutely knows about his responsibility to get permits when his work takes up sidewalk and street space.  He sees no need to bother, though.  He's a smart, tough guy.

Last week, Sal's had also taped off the northeast corner of 5th and State, to the side of the house, unnecessarily impeding pedestrian progress along the sidewalk on State.  Someone removed that tape over the weekend, apparently in frustration.  

My guess is that our pal Sal also failed to get a $25 permit from HPD to park his trailer and dumpster on the street.  Why would he do that?  Because in Hudson there is never a penalty to block the sidewalk or occupy parking spaces without the proper permit.  Contractors may or may not be reminded by DPW or HPD to get a permit after the fact, but there will be no fine assessed.  Not for the first, second, third, or any time.  Because it's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission.  Because Hudson City Hall (primarily DPW, HPD, the Mayor's Office and the city attorney) doesn't care that permits are a source of revenue for the city and hold the city harmless should an accident occur due to blocked sidewalks or parking spaces.  And, finally, because City Hall, regardless of what the mayor or Robert Perry might claim, really doesn't care about pedestrians, including, and especially, the disabled.  

This is no way to run a city in the 21st century.