Santa Ana Council debates parking meter changes and structure rates for downtown

The Santa Ana City Council convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss updates regarding the parking enterprise fund, focusing on parking meters and structures. The meeting began with a presentation from the Director of Community Development, who outlined recommendations stemming from discussions held during the previous council meeting on February 18.

One of the primary topics was the proposal to remove parking meters in the Willard neighborhood, particularly north of Tenth Street, to alleviate the burden on single-family residents. The council noted that residents already have an exemption for meters in this area. The discussion highlighted the need for an ordinance amendment to facilitate these changes, as the current meters are outdated coin and app-operated units.

The council also reviewed data on peak parking meter usage, which indicated that the busiest times are during lunch hours and immediately after work. The staff proposed adjusting the hours of operation for parking meters from 8 AM to 10 PM to a more manageable 8 AM to 8 PM, with some council members suggesting even shorter hours of 8 AM to 6 PM to encourage business patronage.

Financial implications were a significant concern, with recommendations to increase parking meter rates from $2 to $2.50 per hour and parking structure rates from $1.50 to $2 per hour. The city manager suggested a gradual increase of 50 cents per year until rates reach a maximum of $3 for structures and $3.50 for meters. This approach aims to generate revenue necessary for maintaining downtown services, including cleanliness and safety programs.

Council members engaged in a robust debate regarding the proposed changes, with some advocating for a more nuanced approach to pricing based on peak usage times. Council Member Becerra proposed a motion to establish different rates for peak and non-peak periods, emphasizing the need to balance revenue generation with support for local businesses. This motion included a request for staff to return with a plan to remove existing meters and install pay stations in high-usage areas.

The council ultimately decided to continue discussions on the matter, with a commitment to revisit the topic in 30 days. The focus will remain on the parking meters, while the management of parking structures will be handled by the city manager, who will consult with local businesses to address their concerns.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to improving parking management in Santa Ana, balancing the needs of residents and businesses while ensuring the financial sustainability of downtown services. Further discussions are anticipated to refine the proposed changes and address the complexities of parking in the city.