Ariel of Flywheel presented the working group’s draft to modify Grand Rapids’ parking‑incentive policy and urged the commission to treat the policy as one adaptive tool among many designed to better use existing parking decks and support mode shift. "We voted to modify and refine it," the presenter said, describing a three‑tiered structure that prioritizes mode shift, better utilization of parking decks and support for low‑wage workers.

The draft was controversial. One commissioner said they "do not support this policy" in its current form because removing a prior time limitation would make the program a permanent subsidy rather than an incentive for new businesses. The commissioner argued the policy, as drafted, may not meaningfully advance mode shift and could disproportionately benefit higher‑income employees who already own cars. The speaker cited Grand Rapids data and national findings showing vehicle ownership skews higher among wealthier households.

Other commissioners supported a middle path: keep the policy but add conditions that link incentives to demonstrable TDM outcomes. Suggestions included requiring employers who receive the parking subsidy to also offer bus passes, support carpooling or provide micro‑mobility options for employees; another commissioner recommended clearer queue and tier rules so low‑income workers can access benefits first.

Staff said the policy remains a city commission policy and that the Mobile GR Commission’s role is to recommend changes for the city commission to consider. Jessica Smith offered to coordinate with the city’s TDM team and return with a memo describing options, potential language to add 'teeth' to the incentive, and an analysis of the fiscal impacts. The commission asked staff to provide cost and revenue modeling (for example, projected revenue gains or losses from selling discounted monthly passes) and to include equity and evaluation metrics in future drafts.

No formal recommendation or vote was recorded at the meeting. Staff will incorporate TDM review and prepare a written summary to guide the commission’s next discussion.