Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council reviews extension of downtown valet contract paid from gaming funds
Summary
Staff proposed a one‑year extension of the valet parking authority contract for downtown Lockport, capped at $100,000 from gaming fund revenues; council members discussed alternatives including user fees and improved wayfinding.
City staff recommended a one‑year extension of the valet parking contract with the Valet Parking Authority (VPA) for 2025 not to exceed $100,000, funded from the city's gaming fund.
Ben (Staff member) told council the city budgeted $100,000 for valet services in prior years but spent about $67,000 last year; he said the higher appropriation provides flexibility if a new restaurant or event increases demand. "If we don't have a new restaurant open in the downtown, I would doubt it will exceed 75, but I am asking to appropriate for the $100,000 again this year," Ben said.
Council members discussed other funding options, including charging patrons a fee, charging businesses that use the service, or creating a business development district assessment to help pay for parking services. Ben said the city pays with gaming fund revenue collected from local gaming stations and that the gaming fund currently has a fund balance and ongoing revenue stream.
Members asked staff to explore longer‑term contracts, negotiated vendor rates, enhanced wayfinding or parking technology, and whether valet can be used for special events beyond restaurants. Ben said the vendor had maintained prior rates and the city could seek longer-term arrangements or negotiate pricing.
No formal vote was recorded at this portion of the meeting; staff proposed placing the extension on the consent agenda for council action at the next meeting.
