Public comments flag Rite Aid closure and downtown parking shortfalls in Saint Marys

During public comments at the May 19 Saint Marys City Council meeting, residents and councilmembers said the announced closure of the downtown Rite Aid and persistent downtown parking problems merit attention.

A resident said the pending Rite Aid closing would be a substantial loss for older residents who rely on local pharmacy services and suggested the city explore attracting a replacement tenant. "It's just a shame that we're gonna lose another business in this town," the speaker said.

Council discussion then turned to parking, a recurring concern. One councilmember said the city is ‘‘underwater on parking’’ — meaning current fees and payment processing cost more than the revenue collected — and suggested revisiting meter strategy, enforcement hours and staffing. The council currently uses limited enforcement hours (about 20 hours per week), and council members discussed options ranging from two‑hour turnover limits at some meters to adding staff hours or changing meter technology.

Council members said a new approach might include more enforcement coverage (for example moving to 40 hours a week), two‑hour zones to encourage turnover, and clearer payment options for users. City staff noted credit-card processing for parking had been problematic and that earlier tests showed costs sometimes exceeded revenue. The council did not adopt any policy changes at the meeting but asked staff to review options for meter technology, enforcement coverage and staffing levels.

Separately, councilmembers recognized the Memorial Park Playground opening and related community projects in manager and council reports but did not take formal action on the Rite Aid vacancy or parking at the May 19 meeting.