Jackson council narrows downtown parking changes, lowers daily rate and adds a free lot after public outcry (5–1)

Jackson City Council approved an amended downtown parking resolution on Dec. 16 that reduces the daily parking rate, establishes a standardized monthly pass and designates an additional free lot following extensive public comment by residents and business owners.

The council initially introduced a package of changes including lowering the daily rate from $10 to $7, a standard monthly pass option, and a new "shared permit" allowing up to three named users to share a single permit (the permit does not allow concurrent parking by multiple vehicles). The proposal kept the existing two-hour rule that prevents rolling a vehicle every two hours to avoid paid parking.

Public comment was heavily focused on parking. Small-business owners and downtown merchants told council the changes as originally presented risked driving customers away; Sadie Bradley said holiday sales were down 43% and urged the city to provide alternate parking, restrooms and better downtown amenities. Multiple residents pressed for clearer rules and better communication; Kathy Moore asked how two-hour limits would affect parents and matinees at the Michigan Theatre.

Council and staff clarified enforcement and logistics. Staff said enforcement currently relies on license-plate–reading software with two part-time enforcers who work roughly 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; the city manager estimated one existing free lot (Lot 9A) had about 60–80 spaces. City legal/staff explained unpaid-ticket enforcement includes notices and, after six or more unpaid tickets, potential district court action.

An amendment added Lot 3 as an additional free lot (between Wesley and Washington) and removed the requirement that the mayor personally sign the documents so the clerk can make administrative adjustments. After the amendment, the resolution passed 5–1.

What the resolution does: It reduces the advertised day rate, creates a standardized monthly pass and a shared-user option, leaves the two-hour rolling rule in place for the system (not per-space rolling), and designates at least one additional free lot. It also directs staff to attach maps and supporting documents to the online packet for public review.

What happens next: Staff will publish the amended documents and maps online (the city manager said the documents would be attached to the meeting packet tomorrow) and the clerk will administer administrative changes without the mayor's signature. Council members said they expect to revisit parking operations based on next year’s financial data and public feedback.