Sarasota parking meters on hold

A paid-parking system in downtown Sarasota that debuted in May has been put on hold until October, the result of complaints about the system from downtown business owners and residents.

Sarasota city officials debated the need for downtown meters for several years before they ultimately decided to install a digital system as well as meters on several streets. Some estimates suggest the installation has already cost the city more than $500,000.

But 17 downtown business owners and residents pleaded with the board to eliminate the parking meters at the June 20 City Commission meeting. The group says the meters harm business and makes downtown unfriendly for patrons.

In a 3-2 vote, officials decided to stop charging visitors for parking at least until Oct. 1.