Some cities have major problems such as crime, traffic, and other enormous issues that cause most people to turn their backs on the rat race of big cities and move to Idaho. Other people in Idaho are so fed up with traffic and other problems that they leave the Treasure Valley and move to more remote parts of the state.

Boise is known for charging for metered parking, which presents a challenge for downtown Boise businesses competing with businesses in Meridian and Nampa, where parking is free. One city in Idaho decided to follow Boise’s lead and charge downtown visitors a parking fee.

The reaction was predictable and expected, everyone hates paid parking in Caldwell. We warned the city council that charging for parking would negatively impact downtown businesses. Caldwell has invested millions of dollars in improvements and marketing to attract people downtown on weekdays and weekends, and we should be proud of that effort.

Paid parking is disrupting the sense of community among Idaho residents, and local businesses are upset about the city’s mistake. Media outlets are reporting on another meeting with the mayor, city council, and angry residents and business owners demanding the elimination of paid parking, saying they can barely cope with the financial burden it brings.

The mayor and city council of Caldwell would be wise to admit their mistake and remove the parking meters. The few supporters of the parking meters say the city will lose a lot of money by eliminating the meters. But downtown businesses say they are losing money and customers and fear they will have to go out of business. If Caldwell loses its downtown, it will no longer matter whether parking is free or not.

Politicians promise to represent the people during the election campaign. But if politicians ignore the will of the people, they will soon be out of a job. Remove the parking meters, Caldwell!