It was only about 3 years ago Tauranga City Council ripped out the parking meters and installed, at a cost of several million dollars, the new pay and display meters.
Now that are being replaced by parking sensors at the cost of $700,000. How soon before they too are ripped out and replaced by policed time zones as being less costly and more efficient to operate even with additional staff. If they keep the sensors what will happen to parking wardens, are we still keeping them and double paying for this service?
The free parking would result in the return of shoppers to the CBD. Who in Council decides on capital expenditure. I think staff have too much authority and the incoming council needs to set new procedures and priorities. I am baffled that Mayor ( THE LEADER ) was surprised when he came to know about the sensors and even some of pick 6 councilors were not aware of it. It shows the lack of leadership and the secrecy of the council. One has to wonder when will they be honest, have integrity and there is transparency in our council.
Rahim Buksh, Cherrywood.

TCC responds:
The meter eye parking sensors were installed in 30 car parks on Elizabeth Street on a trial basis to collect data on how these parks were being used. The trial cost approximately $7,000.
The trial has now finished and the sensors have been removed. Council currently has no plans to install these parking sensors on a permanent basis.