Abuse of parking spaces Published April 17, 2007 By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel 48th Fighter WIng commander ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- QUESTION: I've noticed some people just don't care where they park. I have seen frequent abuse of the street parking markers around the base, mostly at the hospital and the gym/library parking lots. The library parking lot still has people parking in the turning area where the street markings were recently painted with double yellow lines. For the hospital lot, hospital staff park in the two hour parking areas, although they've been advised numerous times not to park in patient parking. Also, people consistently park in the OB permit only space without an OB permit or at least not displaying one. I heard security forces will train and permit individuals to issue parking tickets for parking infractions only. Wouldn't this help? ANSWER: As you already know, parking spaces adjacent to high use facilities such as the library and hospital are at a premium; unfortunately some individuals choose to park illegally. 48th Security Forces Squadron's law enforcement patrols do a great job ticketing illegally parked vehicles, but they can't be everywhere at once. While, yes, we encourage organizations to stand up Parking Warden programs and issue citations to keep special purpose parking spots available for those in need, it is up to each one of us to police ourselves and point out illegal activity as it happens. In addition, our hospital commander continues to advise both patients and staff on parking rules, as published in the 48th Medical Group parking plan. The Liberty Wing is dedicated to ensuring appropriate parking is available for customers and continue to be diligent in our enforcement of this sometimes frustrating issue. As a community, it falls to each one of us to enforce the standards and policies that keep our base running safely and smoothly. In the future, please take note of the time of day, make, model, registration and location of the vehicle in question and notify the Law Enforcement Desk at 226-2333 to make a report. I appreciate everyone's continued vigilance on this matter. The Action Line is your direct link to the commander for complaints, suggestions or comments. It's not intended to replace the chain of command. When normal command agency channels haven't been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, fax 226- 5637, e-mail ( Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil), send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215 APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1085). You may remain anonymous; however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address. Names are confidential.