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Free parking downtown may be restricted

The City of Vernon’s willingness to provide free parking could hit a roadblock.

The City of Vernon’s willingness to provide free parking could hit a roadblock.

Staff was instructed Monday to investigate whether the number of free parking days for special events downtown should be capped.

“We’re equalling 15 days of free parking downtown. That equates to $53,000 (in lost meter revenue annually),” said Coun. Catherine Lord.

Lord is also concerned that the city is waiving parking at certain times downtown when other retail areas in the community must provide their own parking.

“We’re supporting businesses there which is against the local government act.”

Coun. Juliette Cunningham, who owns a business downtown, says free parking can create challenges as vehicle spaces aren’t available.

“Once it’s free, they stay there all day,” she said.

While he supported reviewing how much free parking should occur, Coun. Brian Quiring is calling for input beyond staff.

“I’d like to see a discussion with the Downtown Vernon Association on this issue and find out what their expectations are,” he said.

Council has agreed to a DVA request for free parking for Shop Local promotion days March 5, May 7, Sept. 3 and Nov. 5.

There will also be no parking enforcement in the downtown core from noon to 6 p.m. Feb. 13 for the DVA’s Chili Cook-Off.

“That’s a long time to cook chili,” said Quiring, who voted for no enforcement while still raising concerns.

“It’s hard on the businesses because people park there for the whole period of time.”

The Downtown Vernon Association says city council should consider each request for free parking on its own merits and not predetermine the number of days allowed.

“If the request is deemed beneficial to business in the downtown and the public, then I think that should be the deciding factor on granting our request,” said Lara Konkin, the DVA’s executive director.

“And council should not be limited in the ability to promote a healthy and vibrant downtown because the DVA has asked for too many days in that year already.”