I was recently given my second parking ticket at my local medical clinic, after reaching the end of my one hour that I had paid for.
This was the result of my medical consultation starting late and going longer than expected.
In no way am I criticizing our medical experts for this overrun as they provide sterling services that are difficult to schedule with the wide variety of situations involved.
What was shocking to discover was Imperial Parking has the authority to demand a $60 payment in seven days for a small infraction, or $80 if paid later.
These fees seem excessive, particularly as Imperial has just increased their rates again, now to $2.75 per hour – an extra 10 per cent increase in the last few months, while the cost of living is only increasing at two or three per cent annually.
I sincerely request council to pass a bylaw banning parking fees on lots associated with provision of medical services throughout Surrey.
This type of restriction on gouging medical “victims” has already been passed by Delta council, demonstrating strong public leadership.
If Surrey council is not brave enough to take on these parking monsters, then please consider a bylaw that would force these companies to have their fees and penalty charges in Surrey reviewed annually and approved by council or city staff before implementation.
I ask other citizens, taxpayers and voters to join me in getting Surrey to follow Delta’s public spirited restrictions on medical parking by emailing Mayor Watts directly: mayor@surrey.ca
Herbert Spencer,
Surrey