The city of Portland belongs to its residents, not to its suburban neighbors.

The proposal to extend metered parking until 7 p.m. and introduce Sunday enforcement suggests city leadership that has lost sight of that fact. As a resident of the Arts District, I see firsthand how these changes would disproportionately affect those of us who call the inner city home.

My frustration is compounded every time I step out of my apartment and see cars lined up with city passes for free parking, specifically used by City of Portland Health and Human Services employees. While certain city sectors enjoy these perks, others are left to fend for themselves.

I am a part-time city employee at the William B. Troubh Ice Arena, and we receive absolutely no exceptions or assistance when parking becomes a nightmare during Sea Dogs, Celtics or soccer events at Fitzpatrick Stadium.

It is particularly telling that while the council considers making life more expensive for residents and frontline staff, I do not believe not a single member of the Portland City Council has metered parking in front of their own home. From the suburban-style streets of District 5 to the permit-protected zones of the West End, our representatives are insulated from the very “wallet-draining” policies they are asking us to endure.

The city manager’s proposed budget should focus on making the city livable for those who work and live here. I urge the council to vote against this expansion. Let’s keep Portland accessible to Portlanders.

Gordon Szerlip
Portland