Dear Mayor Kelly,

We, the undersigned employees and supporters of local businesses in Chattanooga, respectfully bring to your attention an issue that affects many residents of our vibrant city: the cost of parking. As employees dedicated to serving our community through our work, we often find ourselves burdened by the high cost of parking, which detracts from our ability to contribute effectively to our local economy.
Parking expenses have become a significant financial strain on our livelihoods. Many of us rely on hourly wages or modest salaries to make ends meet, and parking fees eat into our earnings, making it increasingly difficult to sustain ourselves and our families. Moreover, the current parking costs discourage residents from seeking employment opportunities within the downtown area, thereby limiting economic growth and job creation.

We believe that by implementing free or subsidized parking for employees of local businesses, Chattanooga can foster a more supportive environment for its workforce and encourage greater participation in the local economy. This initiative would not only alleviate financial stress for employees but also enhance the overall vitality of our business districts.

Therefore, we respectfully petition your office to consider the following measures:

1. Free Parking Permits: Issue free or heavily discounted parking permits to employees of local businesses, valid during their working hours.
2. Expansion of Free Parking Zones: Expand existing free parking zones or designate new areas where employees can park without cost.
3. Collaboration with Businesses: Work closely with local businesses to develop a sustainable parking solution that benefits both employees and the city.

We understand the complexities involved in municipal budgeting and infrastructure management. However, we firmly believe that prioritizing the needs of local employees will yield long-term benefits for Chattanooga’s economic prosperity and community well-being.
Thank you for considering our petition. We look forward to your positive response and to working together to make Chattanooga an even better place to live, work, and thrive.