Parking fines to be reduced

Parking fines will be reduced from $112 to $80, yielding $425,360 less revenue for Central Coast Council, as a result of a decision by on March 11.

In debate, Cr Troy Marquart said he didn't like to hear the talk around fines and revenue, or losing revenue.

"A fine is implemented to try and curb someone's behaviour and I don't think we should be looking at it in the scope of a budget or that we get so much revenue every year," he said.

Cr Chris Holstein took the opportunity to ask about the progress of the short-term parking strategy which was brought to Council many months ago.

Executive manager Mr Shane Sullivan said it was progressing but did not disclose further details.

Cr Jillian Hogan said there had been parking fine blitzes at places including Woy Woy, where residents had parked on the verges because the roads were so narrow that to park on the edge of the road would be a safety hazard.

Cr Greg Best said staff should be encouraged to use their common sense instead of "ridiculous infringements for parking as they've done for 20 years".

He was the only councillor to vote against the reduction.

SOURCE:

Central Coast Council meeting Item 3.6, 11 Mar 2019

Reporter: Sue Murray