Belleville council is going ahead with the first phase of a three-phase parking modernization plan.
Phase One improvements include increasing the hourly parking rate to from $1 to $1.50 per hour, increasing the monthly fee for daytime permit parking to from $65 to $75.
There would also be increased fines for parking infractions and enhanced daytime parking enforcement through the addition of one added enforcement officer shift.
Subsequent phases will be brought forward to council for consideration in future years as conditions evolve and funding opportunities are assessed.
The approval came Monday after council delayed a decision several weeks ago in order for staff to provide more information.
Some of that information included a consultant’s report on what would happen if the city offered free parking on streets and in lots in the Downtown District.
It was determined about $800,000 per year in revenue would be lost through permit sales and parking fines.
Phase One changes are to be implemented in 2026.
