Old Orchard Beach holds off on increasing parking fees

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Parking fees will remain at $3 an hour for the rest of the season.

The Town Council on Tuesday agreed to postpone until next year a vote to decide whether to increase the town parking fees from $3 an hour to $4 an hour. From May 1 to Sept. 30, the town charges parking fees for on-street parking on Old Orchard Street, First Street, and other areas in the downtown and in town-owned lots.

Town Manager Diana Asanza asked the Town Council to hold off on increasing parking fees, as she said people were already dealing with inflation and the increase in the cost of gasoline. She said the Town Council should before making changes to parking fees, wait until the season was over and evaluate the town’s parking permit program, including the newly established temporary permit. The temporary permit is $50 and is good for seven days at the Milliken Street parking lot and allows for overnight parking.

Town Council Larry Mead said he agreed with Asanza, and the town in addition to evaluating parking fees could better publicize the permit program.

“I think a lot of residents aren’t really even aware of what our seasonal parking permits entail and what a good deal they really are,” he said.

Town Council Chairman Shawn O’Neill thanked community members who gave feedback on the proposed increase.

“Please know that your Council does listen. This is one good example of that. We are here to work for you and with you, not against you,” he said.

The town has information on its parking permits published online.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.