Forcing our veterans to pay for on-street parking is an embarrassment to our city, says a Kelowna lawyer.
Tess Guay said permitting free parking for veterans in Kelowna would be a meaningful way to show gratitude, respect and admiration as we approach another Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
“Inflationary pressures have driven up the cost of living and really hit the bottom line for our veterans living on fixed incomes,” said Guay in a letter emailed to the city in the hopes of starting a conversation on the issue.
“This gesture is a financial break that veterans could really use right now.”
Guay noted many municipalities in B.C. have stepped up to provide free on-street parking for their veterans.
Those communities include Penticton, Vernon and Kamloops along with the City of Vancouver and several Lower Mainland suburban cities.
“Our Okanagan neighbours to the North and South recognize the sacrifices of our veterans,” stated Guay.
“They have chosen not to put the collection of parking revenues ahead of the interests of our veterans. To do otherwise is an embarrassment.”
The City of Kelowna says in 2005, council approved no-charge parking for veterans in support of the federal government declaring 2005 as the “Year of the Veteran.”
This approval was extended for an additional year, until the end of 2006. Since that time, veterans have not been provided with no-charge parking in the city.
With respect to any concern about discouraging the use of motor vehicles, Guay noted many veterans were injured and/or disabled as a result of their service.
“Many are elderly. I would suggest that driving and parking are curtailed for the most to essential shopping and appointments,” he said.
READ MORE: Penticton upholds resolution for free veteran parking