Caldwell’s new parking meters stir debate among locals and business owners

BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — For the past three months, the City of Caldwell has been testing parking meters in its downtown area, a move aimed at increasing turnover and driving more traffic to local businesses. However, the initiative has sparked mixed reactions from residents and business owners.

Tonight, locals had the opportunity to share their opinions directly with city officials during a public hearing. The meters, which charge $1 per hour with a $5 daily maximum for parking between 5th and 10th avenues, have been a source of contention.

City officials hoped the meters would boost business by encouraging quicker parking turnover, but many are concerned that the opposite is happening.

“It’s definitely impacted my business,” said Christopher Ott, a local business owner. “We’re hearing a lot of commentary from our guests and locals, and many people are just not happy with it.”

George Decker, another business owner, shared similar concerns. “People come in and say they won’t be down here much, except on Sundays when you don’t have to pay,” Decker said.

The meters have also caused technical issues, according to Ernie Seaton, who owns a business downtown. “The meters have caused headaches for customers, who spend 20 minutes trying to figure them out. By the time they do, they leave. And then there’s been actual issues with the meters, where people have been ticketed and then they said that they weren’t in the system, and they actually were.”

The public hearing revealed widespread frustration, with many expressing fears that the meters could deter visitors from downtown Caldwell, potentially harming the local economy.

No official decision was made at the hearing, which was purely for public input. We’ll keep you updated as soon as one is announced.