If commissioners approve, at least one would go on the November ballot. Commissioners asked for an amendment to abolish the parking agency either through privatization or by a merger with the city. With revenues rising, he said he expects a similar surplus for the city next year. The mayor last week advocated abolition of the agency, saying more money would be available to the city if the agency were privatized or placed under the city manager's supervision. We do not even have the right to audit this organization.
Commissioners say they are reluctant to turn the agency into another city department.
Willy Gort, for one, said the agency has lower operating costs outside the city. A merger would bring the agency's employees under city unions, raising salaries, pensions and other costs. Joe Sanchez said he also might consider privatizing the agency but wanted to know the effect on bond ratings. He said he also fears higher parking rates and a loss of the ability to build new garages. Arthur Teele said he would not support abolishing the agency but supported the second proposal, a reorganization of the Off-Street Parking Board that controls how agency funds are spent.