PATCH ASKS: Should There Be a Cap on This Fine?

Last week, Partch reported on a bill seeking to allow people living in certain neighborhoods where residents complain of parking difficulties to to park in the area.

The Senate bill was sponsored by Brooklyn State Sen. Daniel Squadron, who represents the neighborhoods around Atlantic Yards as well as downtown Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights, where commuters routinely park, and the .

The bill itself does not specify the cost of a permit, or provide cap, but Squadron has said that the City Council and Department of Transportation would likely charge between 20 and 100 dollars per year.

“If it’ll be two dollars this year, it’ll be five dollars next year, and then it’ll become exorbitant,” predicted State Sen. Tony Avella, D-Bayside, last week. 

There was also no maximum fine for non-resident violators who park in these areas written into the legislation.

An official in Squadron's office on Monday told Patch; "We're certainly open to suggestions/amendments, including specific caps on permit costs or fines."

So, what do you think the maximum charge for a permit should be? How much should the City be allowed to fine violators? Tell us in the comments section. We can also forward any email suggestions sent to Lori.gross@patch.com to Squadron's office.

For your background, revenues from the permits would be given to New York City Transit to improve subway and bus service. Money from fines would go to the New York City general fund.

Additional reporting by Prospect Heights Editor Amy Sara Clark.