Parking meter modernization took center stage at the Lock Haven City Council meeting on December 9, 2024, as officials discussed the urgent need to upgrade aging equipment and explore new payment options. City leaders highlighted the challenges posed by the current antique meters, which are increasingly difficult to maintain and repair.

City Manager Wilson noted that the council is considering transitioning to modern kiosks, which could replace traditional meters in downtown parking lots. "We need to come up with a plan for the downtown area," Wilson stated, emphasizing the potential cost-effectiveness of kiosks over the existing meters, which come with high maintenance costs and monthly fees.

The council is looking to initiate a phased approach, starting with a few parking lots to test the new system before a full rollout. The estimated cost for replacing one block of parking meters is around $30,000, a figure that has raised concerns about the financial feasibility of such an upgrade. "We haven't bought new ones in a while; we just keep repairing and putting them back out," Wilson explained, indicating that a detailed study will be necessary to determine the long-term benefits and costs of new meters.

In addition to the parking meter discussions, the council addressed community concerns regarding parking enforcement on April Lane, where 129 tickets have been issued this year. This represents a small fraction of the total tickets issued citywide, but it highlights ongoing issues with compliance and the need for effective communication about parking regulations.

As the city prepares to explore these changes, officials are committed to ensuring that any new system meets the needs of residents while improving the overall parking experience in Lock Haven. The council's next steps will involve reaching out to vendors and gathering more information to make informed decisions in the coming year.