After heated public comment, Camden Select Board votes 3'2 to suspend paid street parking for 2026 season

The Camden Select Board voted 3 in favor and 2 opposed to suspend paid parking on town streets for the remainder of the 2026 season while retaining paid parking at the public landing. The vote capped a lengthy public hearing in which business owners, residents, and board members described operational problems (lack of clear signage, kiosk/card-only configuration, app confusion), divergent revenue expectations, and sharply different views about whether the program improves parking turnover.

Acting Town Manager Jody summarized the town's financial position: a recent run-rate projection placed likely season revenue at about $186,000 (based on updated daily collections), recurring annual fees/expenses were cited in the packet near $123,000, and the town had previously paid the device-installment amounts for kiosks (purchase/installation costs were discussed in prior packets). She also said part-time enforcement and equipment fees affect net yield and that a prior consultant projection used different assumptions (different rates and area covered).

Supporters of the suspension argued the rollout lacked adequate signage and public notice and that some residents and visitors (particularly those without smartphones or who live in neighboring towns) were being penalized. Business owners testified that the machines slow quick transactions, confuse customers and reduce local foot traffic. Opponents said paid parking has improved turnover and supports free long-term parking in outlying lots and urged the board to let the program run while a committee studies data and a referendum could be considered.

Board discussion referenced legal and budgetary constraints: Select Board members asked the town attorney to confirm whether removing a revenue item included in the adopted budget would create a legal constraint and asked staff to report back promptly. The chair said the board would comply with legal counsel if the budget process required continuing the program. The meeting record shows the motion passed with a majority and that staff will follow up on legal questions and execution details (signage, enforcement) before operational changes take effect.

Vote: The motion to suspend paid parking on streets (retain public-landing paid parking) passed 3'2. The board directed staff to coordinate signage improvements, audit current collections and enforcement costs, and report back on legal/budget implications before implementing the operational change.