Handicapped Parkers are going to be charged to park in Monterey, Ca, surface lots. They had been allowed to park for free but now will pay half price. In the article describing the new rate, the local parking superintendent noted that "the charge will generate $95,000 a year."
This simply proves the theory that parking fees are a tax used to generate money for the city, and not a way to control and protect a valuable resource.
Here’s an alternate statement that the super could have said:
"We’ve had a problem with people parking in handicapped spaces and using fraudulent handicapped placards. By charging handicapped parkers, we are reducing the incentive for cheating, and we are working toward guaranteeing space and access for our disabled citizens. The money generated, after we pay for the cost of collection, will be divided between four local organizations who support the disabled in our community."
But he just HAD to add the part about collecting money. And of course the last part of my quote is a fairy tale. Money going to help the people who generated it. HA — It will disappear down the rate hole called the general fund and probably pay for a new carpet and desk in the mayor’s office.
JVH
