Hello Commissioners, 

We're over six months into the new parking program and I was wondering if you have a list of businesses that are doing better under these conditions. If so, please do send one my way. I still have a list of businesses that were opposed to paid street parking, but some of those businesses are no longer open.

I can tell you that here in the core, things have been pretty lousy during the weekdays compared to when we had free parking. People are not out and about much anymore during the weekdays. Even the Ambassadors are sharing stories of people complaining about the parking and writing off downtown. I can't help but feel that encouraging people to come downtown and fill these sidewalks starts with free parking, or at least a compromise that doesn't involve filling the pockets of your buds at Passport Parking. 

From what I understand, the revenue made by the city specifically from paid street parking can't begin to compare to the potential revenue lost by our local businesses. If that's not enough reason to revisit this decision then please consider listening to those just outside and adjacent to the legendary Gainesville Commission echo chamber. We agree on far more than we don't, but you need to realize that by continuing to back this program, you're choosing to hurt local businesses. 

Thanks for your time, 

Andrew Schaer