Its chairman, Lo Khere Chiang, said the council was vetting two proposals from two companies, while continuing to hold talks with Kuching City Parking System (KCPS).
“They (KCPS) have come to brief us once, and we will have further discussions. There are two other companies who have submitted their proposals, saying their systems will be better and can help us get more revenue,” he said when contacted yesterday.
He was asked to respond to a recent call by Assistant Minister for Public Health, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, for MPP to expedite the process of implementing parking fees within its jurisdiction to increase revenues.
Lo, however, conceded many members of the public were against the idea of having a proper parking system even though the majority of them wanted it.
“We are in the process of talking to various people because a lot of them, including owners of shops, are against it. They feel the imposition will affect them. It is necessary for us to talk to everybody and carefully assess all the proposals before we seek approval from the higher authority. We want to make sure everybody is happy with us.”
He disclosed there were some 5,000 parking bays within MPP areas.
He was quick to add that the council planned to impose fees on 2,000 to 3,000 parking bays first.
“We will not implement all of the 5,000. Instead, we will start with the most congested areas, such as Third Mile, 7th Mile, Siburan, and part of MJC New Township.
“The parking fees are estimated to generate about RM1 million worth of revenue for MPP every year. However, it is not the money that we are concerned about.”
He pointed out the people had complained about shortage of parking spaces, particularly in congested areas. When a parking system is put in place, he said the shortage issue could be addressed.
“People say it is very difficult to find parking in some areas, while some say there is no place to park.
“Furthermore, it helps control illegal hawking at car parks,” he said, however adding residents of MJC flats had expressed concern about being affected by parking fees.
He, therefore, stressed MPP would gather as much feedback as possible before implementing any system given that it would not want the community to be unhappy.
During the 19th MPP anniversary celebration early this month, Dr Jerip asserted it was high time that the council charged users for the use of its parking bays.
“There are a lot of car parks in MPP areas, and I hope the council would expedite this process, which is to have more revenues as well. With modern city life, there is a need for a proper parking system.”
Borneo Post:August 25, 2015
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