Memphis explores expansion of fees, fines
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – Officials in Memphis are considering the use of new and higher fees to help the city generate funding.
The Commercial Appeal (http://bit.ly/1oIzA0J) reports a few months ago, drivers might have found broken parking meters downtown, but not anymore. Now, they find new electronic meters and an aggressive policy to collect – a parking ticket that isn’t quickly paid could end up costing $246.
The move is part of a change in how the city plans to bring in funding to pay for pensions and other obligations. Another possible method, raising property taxes, is sensitive politically and could prove problematic given the number of vacant properties.
Consultants recommended earlier this year that officials explore new ways to make money, including through new and expanded fees and fines.
