YORKTON - Yorkton Council has agreed to multiple weeks moving forward where free parking will be offered at least in select locations.
“To encourage business activity in the downtown area of Yorkton, Council has historically offered forms of free parking in the downtown during the holiday season,” Nicole Baptist – Bylaw & Safety Supervisor with the city told the regular meeting of Council Monday, adding Council has the authority to establish free parking provisions for a period of time identified by resolution.
“As part of the Downtown Parking Review 2021, it was recommended that additional “Free Parking” days be provided annually to encourage shopping local,” continued Baptist.
As such city administration suggested several free parking periods.
Council would approve unanimously a list which includes:
* December 18-29, 2023
* February 7-14, 2024 (Valentine’s Day)
* March 25-29, 2024 (Easter)
* July 1-5, 2024 (Yorkton Ex Summer Fair)
* August 26-30, 2024 (Back to School Week)
* October 28-November 1, 2024 (Harvest Showdown)
In addition to the above noted weeks, this Holiday Season, Yorkton will be a stop for the CPKC Holiday Train. In support of the event, Administration recommends we allow free parking on December 5, as well.
The decision will mean the city loses revenue.
“Based on previous revenues, we anticipate a loss of approximately $65 per week that we offer free parking,” stated Baptist, adding “Administration anticipates a loss of approximately $500.”
