Bullock Texas State History Museum
City Should Cut Costs
RECEIVED Wed., Oct. 17, 2012
Dear Editor,
In response to the city of Austin pushing for parking meters to require $1 minimum for credit cards.
Parking meters are another dumb idea cities and towns often use to try to get more income. However, meters do not work because it takes a lot of money to purchase, install, maintain, and collect money from them. It is counter-productive and another bad idea. It also sends the wrong message to residents and visitors. However, if you want to charge to park, an alternative is to get rid of meters and charge one fee for a sticker to park anywhere in Austin.
What does it take for Austin leaders to develop creative and worthwhile ideas for making money? One way would be to trim the fat from city government, combine departments and – most of all – cut costs. That would increase revenue immediately.
In response to the city of Austin pushing for parking meters to require $1 minimum for credit cards.
Parking meters are another dumb idea cities and towns often use to try to get more income. However, meters do not work because it takes a lot of money to purchase, install, maintain, and collect money from them. It is counter-productive and another bad idea. It also sends the wrong message to residents and visitors. However, if you want to charge to park, an alternative is to get rid of meters and charge one fee for a sticker to park anywhere in Austin.
What does it take for Austin leaders to develop creative and worthwhile ideas for making money? One way would be to trim the fat from city government, combine departments and – most of all – cut costs. That would increase revenue immediately.
Peter Stern
