Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Springfield’s city council will vote Tuesday on a proposal to double fines for people who park overtime or in fire zones or who take up more than one space.

Ald. Shawn Gregory, noting that parking has been free since the pandemic yet people still feed the meters, said, “Ten dollars more is not going to move the needle. I’m not going to vote for it, because I am not in favor of that. People don’t know it’s free. And it’s not free. It’s free for two hours.”

Gregory suggested using the proceeds from the parking meters – “free money” – to improve parking services, such as adding digital signs.

Ald. Ralph Hanauer, citing increased salaries for traffic wardens, is in favor of raising the fines. Ald. Brad Carlson said promoting turnover is better for business. “We get cars in and out so people can come downtown and enjoy the shopping,” said Carlson.