KPLU Local News
(2010-09-28)
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Travis Rosenthal (L), owner of Tango Restaurant in downtown Seattle, tells a press conference that increased fees for parking and utilities could be self defeating by driving customers elsewhere.
Photo by Bellamy Pailthorp/KPLU.
Several groups have been keeping an eye on the city's budget process for months now, sending letters and offering input. Now they're praising the mayor for honoring at least one of their requests: not resorting to new taxes to shore up the $67-million deficit. But they fear the proposed rate hikes for utilities and parking will have disastrous effects. Jessica Vets is director of the Fremont Chamber of Commerce.
"I'm very concerned with businesses that are on the edge already and are having a difficult time just getting by right now. It's a very difficult time out there for small business," Vets said.
She spoke at a press conference where manufacturers and restaurant owners alike voiced concern about escalating costs. Travis Rosenthal owns Tango restaurant in downtown Seattle. He says if parking rates nearly double and extend till 8 at night, customers will go elsewhere.
"I believe if you increase Seattle Parking fees, Bellevue's tax revenues are going to go up. Their restaurants and shops are going to be busier," Rosenthal said. "We need to recognize that we are not the only game in town here."
The groups say instead of such drastic rate hikes, the city could look at more ways to cut spending - by re-negotiating contracts or putting in fewer bike lanes. But they agree with the Mayor that the city's expensive rebuild of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and its crumbling seawall are priorities that must be funded.
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