Council pauses plan for Sunday meter hours after concerns over permit fee and equity

Staff presented a proposal to extend existing parking meter hours to Sundays in three meter zones (downtown, uptown and mid‑city) and to create a Sunday‑only residential permit for residents who live within two walking blocks of affected meters. The proposed annual permit fee was $141.50, described as $2.50 per Sunday plus an $11.50 cost recovery fee; staff projected $2.8 million in annual revenue if fully implemented and estimated $1.4 million for FY26 based on partial‑year assumptions.

Public commenters and several councilmembers raised equity concerns, saying the proposed upfront cost could be a hardship for low‑income residents who rely on street parking and do not have private spaces. Speakers also urged clearer eligibility maps, outreach, and a low‑income or payment‑plan option. Residents also tied the broader paid‑parking debate to impacts at Balboa Park and local businesses.

Council debate focused on balancing neighborhood impacts and city revenue needs. Councilmember Whitburn—who had moved the staff recommendation—said he would withdraw the motion after colleagues requested more safeguards and alternatives; the motion was withdrawn and no vote was taken. Staff and the IBA noted the FY26 budget had assumed $1.4 million from Sunday parking and a recurring $2.8 million in later years, meaning a potential budget gap if the proposal is not advanced as planned.

Next steps: Council directed staff to return with revisions that address equity concerns (including discussing low‑income permit options, eligibility communication, and clearer boundaries) before taking further action.