Limited free parking given to Carnival

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star  Published: January 29, 2012 1:00 AM

The City of Vernon’s Carnival spirit has limits.  Council will only provide four hours of free parking per day over four days instead of the full six days sought by the Downtown Vernon Association for Vernon Winter Carnival activities. “We’re looking to save where we possibly can,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham, adding that the decision had to be based on the city’s financial situation. Six days of free parking would have resulted in the city losing $13,641 in lost revenue. Four hours per day over four days translates into a loss of $4,600 in meter fees. “Council should be aware that this program of requests has only occurred for the past two Winter Carnivals,” said Clint Kanester, the city’s bylaw enforcement manager, in a written report. “The request has progressed from an exemption of four hours during the Winter Carnival events — broomball and chili cook-off — to last year’s five full days and this year’s request for six days.” The DVA is not disappointed with council’s decision. “We are pleased that council recognized the value of making parking available at no charge,” said Earl Hansen, executive director, adding that the goal is to encourage people downtown to attend events. “Carnival is a great community rallying point. Council’s actions can help with the success of the events. Helping with parking creates more interest in our events.”