Downtown La Mesa has several parking spaces marked for electric vehicle charging, but city leaders say the charging stations are not working and there is no local ordinance blocking non-electric vehicles from using the spaces, according to ABC 10News.

The spaces along Lemon Avenue have reportedly sat unused as chargers for roughly two years. Because La Mesa does not currently restrict the spaces to electric vehicles or require active charging, any vehicle can legally park there despite the EV signs.

La Mesa Councilmember Laura Lothian told ABC 10News the situation came up during a recent City Council meeting. She said she would support an ordinance for EV-only parking if the city determines the location makes sense, but questioned whether Lemon Avenue is the right place to further limit parking.

The issue is a small but practical East County transportation problem: public charging only helps drivers if the equipment works and the rules are clear. For Santee residents who visit downtown La Mesa for restaurants, shopping or trolley-area errands, the debate is also a reminder that parking policy can affect everyday access, not just EV owners.

For now, the Lemon Avenue spaces remain open to any vehicle while the charging equipment remains out of service. Source: ABC 10News, "Lack of ordinance leaves EV charging parking spots in La Mesa up for grabs."