Tourists visiting downtown Elora will soon have to pay to park or risk getting a ticket. The rule change was supposed take effect on Jan. 5, but the Township of Centre Wellington said they had to hold off to allow “additional time for signage installation and kiosk commissioning.” The program is now set to start on Friday. Drivers from out of town will have pay to park downtown every day between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. The hourly rate is $3 and is capped at $15 where the maximum parking time limit is 24 hours. “From a parking perspective, this was a necessary thing,” said Adam McNabb, CFO and treasurer for Centre Wellington. “So, we’re not putting undue pressure on our resident tax base.” A fee exemption is available for business owners and people who live in Centre Wellington. Property owners and tenants can also register up to four vehicles per household at no cost, while businesses within the Central Business District can register up to 10 non-resident employees. “People are eligible to register, if you haven’t already, at any time,” McNabb said. For tourists, there will also be two paid parking zones. Zone 1 is for high turnover traffic, capping at three hours, while Zone 2 is for stays up to 24 hours under the township’s current bylaw. Once a vehicle is registered, residents can park for free in either zone but must follow the posted time limits and other parking regulations to avoid getting a ticket. Tenants living in downtown Elora, meantime, are asked to contact the Municipal Office to register their vehicle for the exemption. The new fees kick in ahead of the township’s busy tourist season — when parking becomes a premium. “Definitely a lot of fights for parking for sure,” said Elizabeth Cartilage, the manager of a local business. “And just a lot of people waiting and wanting to park.” Feelings on the new fees are mixed. “The place is inundated with tourists, it’s inundated with cars, and I think it should hopefully help to alleviate that a little bit,” said Elora resident Scott Hutchison. “It’s a beautiful town and you got to pay for parking,” said Gary Williams, who was visiting Elora from Peterborough. “It’s part of life.” Hamilton resident Jodi Pronk had a different opinion. “If I were to come and I wasn’t sure I’d find parking and I’d have to go further away but still pay, I would be on the fence,” she said. “I think regardless of if it’s $5 to park or if it’s free, they’re probably going to do it regardless,” said Elora resident Ashton Fox-Kristensen. The program is cashless. Visitors will have to use kiosks dotted across the downtown core and tap their credit cards or scan a QR code to pay online. “It’s strictly credit card only,” said McNabb. “Unfortunately, we are not in a position to help you out. I would recommend people visit either the tourist office or the municipal office.” McNabb said revenue collected from the new program will fund future parking needs and infrastructure.
