Vernon Jubilee Hospital workers are being accused of hitting their neighbours in the wallet.
The city is initiating a policy for residents who live in the area and those working at VJH to address congestion.
“There’s plenty of parking available for staff at the hospital,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham, adding that they park on the public road to avoid a parking fee levied by the Interior Health Authority.
“They are displacing residents from being able to park in front of their homes.”
Under a policy approved Monday, both permit holders and non-permit holders may park in the area, but residents will be able to purchase permits that exempt them from the posted parking controls, such as a two-hour time limit or a set time of the day when no parking can occur.
City staff says the policy balances the needs of residents and non-residents, but Coun. Scott Anderson suggests those in the neighbourhood are being penalized.
“People are paying for the privilege to park on their own street,” he said.
“Perhaps we should recoup some of the costs from the hospital.”
It’s proposed that a permit for residents in the area would cost $25 per household for a year to a maximum of two vehicles.
Before implementation of the policy, the city will consult with residents in the area to determine support for the proposed parking changes.
“As is the case with all parking control changes, parking will be monitored in the neighbourhood to measure its success and identify further changes, if required,” said Amanda Watson, transportation manager.