Halifax budget deliberations could raise cost of on-street parking

The cost of parking in downtown Halifax could be going up.

The ongoing Halifax budget deliberations could raise the cost of on-street parking in the municipality.

On Wednesday, the budget committee added a 25 per cent increase to paid parking rates, increase monthly commuter permit fees and paid parking on Saturdays to their adjustment list for further consideration.

“Pretty much across the country, you will pay parking on a Saturday, so I think this would put us in line with other cities,” said Coun. Sam Austin. “The mayor had a motion to soften the blow so the first hour will be free so you are paying for long parking and not zipping down to the Alderney Market, so to speak.”

Sue Uteck, executive director of the Spring Garden Area Business Association, is concerned a price increase could deter customers from downtown Halifax.

“Saturday has shown, through our stats, as the one time people will come down to the downtown area because they want to shop and they know the parking is free,” Uteck said.

In a statement to CTV News Atlantic, Mayor Andy Fillmore said residents are facing a 10.9 per cent tax bill increase unless council finds ways to reduce it by looking at other revenue sources.

Council will vote on the final budget on March 31.

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