Sunday paid parking

First Baptist's pastor asked that Sunday paid parking start after 1 p.m. so worshippers aren't charged to attend church.

Church of the Redeemer's senior warden argued downtown churches are civic anchors — his congregation gave $1.25 million to the community in 2025 — and urged alternatives to Sunday fees.

The 80-year-old chaplain of the Ministerial Association asked for free Sunday parking until 1:30 p.m. on behalf of 10,000-plus downtown congregants.

Told a personal story of bringing her disabled father to First United Methodist and warned Sunday fees would create hardship for older and disabled worshippers.

First United Methodist's pastor cited the church's 135-year downtown presence and warned of the 'hassle factor' and garage-gate issues for seniors.

A Church of the Redeemer vestry member said Sunday parking fees would prevent families from bringing new members to church.

A 68-year First Baptist member said seniors struggle with parking apps and asked for the one concession of free parking before 1 p.m. on Sundays.

Suggested raising rates instead of expanding hours and days, keeping Sunday out of paid parking.

A retired law enforcement officer and lifelong Redeemer member worried parking enforcement on Sundays would deter his growing congregation.

Noted few peer coastal cities charge for Sunday parking and argued churches are fragile, non-profit anchor institutions that shouldn't bear the burden.

A First United Methodist member argued churchgoers act as ambassadors who bring elderly friends downtown, and disinviting them hurts the local economy.