That's the (village) ticket!

The village of Lynbrook is giving drivers another chance to relieve themselves of any old parking tickets - especially those that could have amassed some serious late fees and penalties.

Mayor Bill Hendrick and the village board approved a contract last month for an amnesty program, which allows residents with tickets from as far back as January 2006 to receive a 40 percent discount upon payment. Fundamental Business Systems, a New York based court amnesty parking ticket firm, was eyed to administer the $15,000 program under the contract. “Offering an amnesty program is a regular practice of the court,” said John Giordano, village administrator.

The last amnesty program was in 2009 – one is offered roughly every two, three or four years, according to Giordano. He added that the program is a lucrative one. “It will earn the village funds otherwise deemed uncollectable, and offer those who have a old ticket the ability to pay under the program,” he said. Residents who have not paid their tickets and have not showed up for court are put on the amnesty list. Payment instructions were sent to notify those residents, he added.

However, certain outstanding ticket holders with several violations within a particular time period will not be able to avoid penalty, he added. “[The program] does not relieve a person from having three unpaid tickets in a 18-month period relief from a suspension of license and registration,” he said, “and late fees will also be added.”

Trustee Hilary Becker said the program has many benefits. “With these tough times, providing amnesty to [give] people a break is important,” he said. “Lots of people are struggling financially. We can waive some of the fees involved and help people.”

Last August, the village’s code enforcement department reported a small increase – about 10 percent – in parking tickets for residents that had been given out over the last three to four previous months. In a given year, the village issued approximately 5,000 tickets a year, Giordano said.

Becker added that received money would generate village revenue. “We try our hardest to keep taxes down to a minimum and keep spending down, “ he said. collect $250,000. The money will be used to offset taxes and put in the general fund, Giordano said.

The program will run until the outstanding tickets have been satisfied. Any ticket holders can bring or mail their payment to Village Hall. Anyone who wants to know if they hold outstanding ticket should call (516) 599-8000.