Old Town Orange thrives on its charming atmosphere, local businesses, and the unique offerings that make it a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. However, the recent installation of pay-for-parking kiosks threatens the very essence of this vibrant community by discouraging foot traffic, which is vital for the survival of our local shops and restaurants.

Many patrons and visitors will be hesitant to spend leisurely hours exploring and shopping due to the burden of timed parking, leading to a potential decline in commerce within our beloved area. It is a collective concern that pay-for-parking kiosks are creating more harm than good. This is not just a minor inconvenience; it's a significant threat to the small businesses that rely on a steady stream of customers who feel welcome to browse without the pressure of a ticking time clock. We have already lost so much of our old town charm to poor commerce.

The city council has a duty to support and foster local businesses, which are the backbone of our economy. By introducing these kiosks, they're inadvertently driving away potential customers who add to the cultural and economic fabric of Old Town Orange. Instead of generating revenue through parking fees, the council should explore budget-balancing options that do not burden the community or discourage economic activity.

We urge the city council to consider more community-friendly initiatives, such as offering free parking zones or validated parking for retail customers. Supporting our local businesses should be a priority, and policies should be designed to attract—not deter—visitors.

Please sign this petition to tell the city council to remove the pay-for-parking kiosks and restore Old Town Orange to a thriving, customer-friendly environment where businesses can prosper without unnecessary constraints.