The Editor,
I have just returned from Suter Brook Village in Port Moody. Like many, I stop several days a week for about 15 minutes to access an ATM or pick up some items at Thrifty's. I have always been happy to shop locally. I was shocked to see new signs up on the streets saying that pay parking had been implemented.
I don't recall having seen pay parking anywhere else in the city (except for the SkyTrain stations). It was one of things I was always proud to tell visitors, that they could visit the city's shops and residents without the cost or annoyance of parking kiosks.
I wonder if residents realized that in granting access to Port Moody land to developers, we would all end up paying — in traffic congestion, noise and, now, parking.
I realize the land is owned by the strata and developer but that should not grant them carte blanche to change the nature of the city. I wonder if city council has the ability to restrict the charging of fees in such mixed-use developments to permanent underground parking spaces leased by condo residents. I don't think they should be able to charge for customer parking in these developments.
I urge others who are also against the introduction of pay parking in Port Moody by developers to make their dissatisfaction known to city council. I, for one, will drastically cut down on my visits to Suter Brook Village. It is unfortunate the businesses will suffer if more people follow suit. If the developer does not roll back this action, it should be prepared for existing businesses to move as they follow their customers elsewhere.
I believe city council should enact restrictions on developments regarding pay parking. If you agree, let council know.
L. Schiffner, Port Moody
