Petition Against Paid Parking for Homeowners and Residents of Sunset Beach, NC

To: The Sunset Beach Town Council

We, the undersigned homeowners and residents of Sunset Beach, NC, urge the Council to reconsider the proposed implementation of paid parking that would impact local taxpayers.

Reasons for Opposition
Financial Burden on Residents

As taxpayers who already contribute to the town's budget, imposing additional parking fees, even with a "nominal" rate, places an undue financial burden on us.

Disproportionate Impact

The proposal to allow residents to park for free only with a nominal fee creates inequity and unfairly penalizes locals for accessing their own community's amenities and public spaces.

Community Accessibility

Parking restrictions and fees could reduce accessibility for residents, especially those who rely on Main Street and Canal Drive for parking near their homes or for essential activities.
Potential Economic Impact

Introducing paid parking may discourage local use of town businesses and amenities, ultimately harming Sunset Beach’s economy and sense of community.

Transparency and Fairness in Planning

The timeline and objectives for the paid parking program lack sufficient input from residents. The decision-making process must prioritize transparency and actively involve homeowners and taxpayers who are directly impacted.

Our Request
We respectfully request the following actions:

Exempt Sunset Beach homeowners and residents from all paid parking fees.
Reevaluate the paid parking plan to ensure it reflects the needs and concerns of local residents.
Host additional public forums to gather feedback and explore alternative funding mechanisms that do not disproportionately affect taxpayers.
The charm of Sunset Beach lies in its sense of community and accessibility. Let us work together to preserve these values without placing unnecessary burdens on the very people who call this town home.

Signed,
Residents and Homeowners of Sunset Beach, NC