A parking meter in uptown Saint John. Image: Staff photo

City decreases parking fees after several deputations from Thunder Bay citizens.

There will now be a 50-cent minimum at Marina Park, with 50-cent per 15-minute increments. At the Market Square lot, a 75-cent minimum with 75-cent per 15-minute increments.

On June 1, it was announced that city parking meters require a $2 minimum spend, which buys one hour of parking.

This news sparked disapproval from citizens and businesses across the city.

A petition was created by the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area (BIA), hoping to enable 15 and 30 minute parking options.

It had nearly 2,000 signatures and was brought to council last night.

Executive director of the BIA, Kara Pratt, says the decision will be ratified in next Monday’s council meeting.

“We’re happy that they made that adjustment, and we’re looking forward to working with council and administration on other adjustments,” said Pratt.

One hour parking would decrease the amount of residents parking downtown, decreasing small business revenue, she notes.

Administration is also asked to consider residential parking rates in the downtown area. They will return on July 22 with a report.