Everyone must cooperate
on downtown parking plan

After reading the Sept. 23 article on the downtown Westmont parking proposals, the Westmont Chamber of Commerce believes it is important to provide additional insights on the B-1 business district parking proposals.

First, it must be noted that all business owners were asked to partake in the B-1 business district parking study conducted by Rich and Associates. All business owners were also invited to provide feedback to refine and shape the recommendations brought forth in the final report.

During a period of seven months of open forum meetings, parking recommendations were developed and presented to the Village Board for consideration. All of this work is being done to better serve our customers who park in downtown Westmont.

B-1 business district representatives working with the chamber and with support from village staff forged a proposal containing 11 recommendations regarding parking in the B-1 business district. One of these recommendations on which everyone agreed was that business owners and employees would reserve prime parking spaces for customers and guests, including spots on Cass Avenue and in the Burlington/Cass parking lot.

This would increase prime parking spaces for those shopping, dining and visiting our downtown businesses. The one key point that did not have consensus between business owners was the proposed $45 per quarter parking permit fee.

Secondly, part of this proposal includes that any funds collected from these specific parking permits are to be used for future downtown parking improvements. Those in favor believe that paying into the betterment of downtown is worth the fee. Others believe that it might place undue hardship on business owners.

Both are valid reasons. Please let it be noted that these differing views were not split between those who have parking behind their buildings and those who do not.

In closing, no matter which position one may take on the parking fee proposal, all concerned have had an opportunity to share their views. Business owners have their customers’ best interest in mind with this proposal.

Larry Forssberg, executive director, Westmont Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

(Editor's note: At its Oct. 5 meeting, the Westmont Village Board approved parking fees. Read this story for more information.)