Mixed reaction on Naperville parking fees

A proposal to double commuter parking permit fees in Naperville received a mixed reaction Saturday.

Some residents who attended the city's Transportation Advisory Board public hearing said the amount was too high. Others thought the amount was fine but should be phased in over time. A few expressed full support.

Almost everyone agreed that the city lacks parking spaces and chimed in on the problem. However, the purpose of the meeting was the proposed increase, which would mark the first in 13 years for Naperville.

An increase would help fund capital projects related to transportation. It stemmed from a parking fee study conducted by the city.

"I agree that it's time to raise the rate but let's look at increasing it incrementally," said Naperville resident Jeff Knezovich.

Naperville City Councilman Robert Fieseler, who spoke at the meeting as a resident, said that roughly 20 percent of Naperville households have at least one commuter. He believes some type of increases is needed as well.

"I don't think any commuter would begrudge an increase," he said. "The question is how much."

The proposal calls for increasing quarterly fees at the Parkview and Burlington lots from $60 to $120. At the Kroehler lot, residents pay $50 and non-residents pay $55 quarterly. Under the new plan they would pay $110 and $120 respectively. At the Route 59 station, fees would jump from $60 to $120 for residents and $65 to $130 for non-residents. Aurora, which also operates a lot at that location, is considering a flat fee increase as well -- from $66 to $120.

Some residents who spoke at the hearing think that fee increases are overdue.

"You want something in society, pay for it," Naperville resident Sheldon Hayer said. "Live closer to Chicago if you can't afford to live here."

Resident Joseph Lybik said that the fees are so low that it does not make economic sense.

"It was more expensive for me to take the bus than to park. I wholeheartedly support the fee increases," he said.

The board's reaction to public input appeared to reflect public comment.

Transportation Advisory Board Member Myron Sawyer said he fully supports an increase.

"Since I have been on this board I have promoted the idea of a raising parking fees," he said. "Parking is a privilege, not necessarily a right."

Board member Joe Gryczkowski said that he doesn't think most people would mind an increase, "but I think they are opposed to raising it at one time."

The final recommendation will go before the board on April 12 and then to the city council for approval.