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Macon-Bibb parking meters costing more than they're bringing in

It's been six months since parking meters returned to downtown Macon, but the new parking meter system is actually losing the county money

Scott Mitchell owns Travis Jean Emporium in downtown Macon. He says his sales have doubled since parking meters were installed downtown.

"I had people I'd see at church and events that say I'd love to come shop, but I can never find a parking place," said Mitchell. 

 Alex Morrison with Macon-Bibb's Urban Development Authority told commissioners that in the last 6 months, it has cost them $405,000 in fees and installation costs, but they've invested $400,000, which means a net loss of about $5,000.

If the UDA turns a profit, the group is supposed to use that money to revitalize downtown Macon according to the current county code. 

Commissioners Elaine Lucas wants those funds to go to the general fund.

Commissioner Al Tillman says he has a problem with ticketing. He says law enforcement cars were ticketed, he asked for an exemption to be added so that commissioners don't have to pay for parking, and added he'd like to sponsor an ordinance to remove them.

"I really can't think of one catalyst that has pushed downtown retail more than the parking meters have," said Mitchell. 

Scott says let them stay. He hopes it will bring more people into his store and encourage other businesses to move in nearby.

Morrison says he expects the meters will start turning a profit in the next couple of months after they've paid off all the startup costs.

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