Council sends proposed parking permit fee increases to second reading amid dissent

The council on April 22 voted to pass proposed changes to Appendix D (police department fees and fines) updating parking-permit rates to a second reading and publication. The proposed schedule, recommended by the Traffic Commission, would raise daytime and 24/7 permits by $5 in several lots and increase three‑day permits by $10 in some locations, with an effective date suggested of June 1, 2025.

President Sapienza read the Traffic Commission communication citing Chair Mary Yang’s note that permit rates had not been updated in over 17 years and outlining the proposed new rates for Center Street, St. Anthony lot, and others.

The measure drew opposition from several councilors. Councilor Bona said she would vote against the measure, arguing Center Street users can largely park free and that alternative payment systems (meters, mobile apps) could be pursued. “We’re going to be charging or raising the permit fees in Center Street when most of Center Street can park for free,” Bona said. Other opponents objected to raising the three-day parking pass when there is no single‑day $5 option, calling the proposal “not a good look.”

The roll call produced a plurality in favor: the clerk recorded four yays, three nays and one abstention, and the motion passed to a second reading (the ordinance was not adopted at this meeting). The council will publish the ordinance for a second reading as required by law before any final adoption.

What’s next: Ordinance 12,486 will be published and brought back to the council for a second reading and final vote; further adjustments or amendments may be made before adoption.