HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/7/2023 Item 6a, Gordon
From:Lynn Gordon <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:Parking
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Mayor, Vice Mayor, Council Members and City Management Staff,
There is currently a very vocal and angry message among San Luis residents.Thus far, there have been responses from
those who put the new parking regulations in place: for example, give it time; people need to get used to it or there are
perks for businesses to help them out.
It can only be very naive arrogance that would make these answers seem appropriate. Those who believe this seem to
feel that our city is so special that people will put up with anything. They feel that the business owners will survive and
the downtown will thrive in spite of the exorbitant parking cost. It is already clear that the city, charming and unique as
it is, will not rise above this latest threat. We are already seeing businesses leave and while more come, as is advertised
in various messages, this will not continue as people begin to explore options.
What about loyalty to and support for those who have worked so hard to create downtown SLO? Remember how
many locale choices there are and how many of them are thoughtful in their approach to parking.
Some concrete examples I have heard about in the past few weeks:
Someone said they realize that the same movies all come to Paso Robles or Atascadero and parking is free or
reasonable. And, they said, I am exploring new theatres. Of course,PalmTheatre is unique and I will miss going there,
but...)
Someone said they used to invite friends from all over the county to SLO for lunch. Those friends do not want to pay
the price of parking, so they meet in other towns.
Someone from one of the colleges said that meetings rotated for several groups at different coffee shops around town.
Now they meet on the outskirts of SLO or other towns with free parking.
I, myself, did not choose to drop off some items at a thrift shop: too heavy to carry and paying so much near the shop
that took these items seemed unfair when I was donating.
Actually, I walk to town and these comments are not mine, except the last. But the reason I walk to town is that it is a
positive and happy environment with shopkeepers who care and know me. They are already competing with larger
stores and online stores, Soon I will jump in my car and go elsewhere if my favorite shops are driven out and if my
friends do not want to shop and eat here.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Gordon
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