In a recent government meeting, the board discussed two resolutions regarding the implementation of paid parking at two properties in downtown Franklin: 9498 East Main Street and 127 Second Avenue North. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges of parking availability in the area, particularly as it relates to local businesses.

The property at 9498 East Main Street, which serves a restaurant, currently has a deficit of parking spaces, requiring 93 but only providing 45. In contrast, the property at 127 Second Avenue North has an excess of parking, with 54 spaces available for a requirement of only 19. The owner of the latter property, Marla Albert, expressed concerns about managing free parking effectively, suggesting that marking all spaces as paid would help ensure availability for patrons of her business.

The board presented three options for consideration: deny the request for paid parking, approve it only after business hours, or allow paid parking with free parking for patrons. The latter option received strong support from board members, who recognized the need for businesses to manage their parking effectively to serve their customers.

Albert proposed a system where patrons could receive two hours of free parking through a QR code, while non-patrons would pay a rate comparable to nearby lots. This approach aims to alleviate the burden of free parking being occupied by non-customers, which has become a significant issue for local businesses.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on nearby businesses that rely on free street parking, as well as the broader implications of parking requirements in the downtown area. Board members acknowledged the need for a comprehensive review of parking policies to support revitalization efforts and accommodate the growing number of visitors to Franklin.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to move forward with option three, allowing paid parking with provisions for free parking for patrons, while also recognizing the need for further discussions on parking management and requirements in the downtown corridor.