PENAMPANG: The introduction of a parking fee is supposed to give motorists peace of mind in as far as finding parking space at Donggongon township, Penampang. Indeed, the ample parking spaces observed even at the peak hours give credence that one of the objectives of having a parking fee has been achieved.
Dr. Edwin Bosi, who is the coordinator of Parti Anak Negeri for the West Coast, said it used to be a challenge to find a parking space before the introduction of the parking fee. I wasted lots of time driving round and round Donggongon in search of a parking spot, he added. Double parking is a common sight.
“I spoke to many people at Donggongon on how easy it is now to get a parking spot. They told me with an angry and frustrated voice that this is so because the Penampang Municipal Council is charging an exorbitant parking fee. 75 cents for the first half hour is astronomical,” he said in a statement.
In contrast, the Kota Kinabalu City Council is charging a much cheaper rate of 55 cents per half hour. I was in Kuching recently and found that the city charges 20 cents for the first half hour.
Dr. Bosi said he learnt that motorists do not want to park if they have a choice. In fact, many are looking for free parking spots. It is so glaring to see so many empty parking spaces now.
Dr. Bosi, who is the former Kapayan Assemblyman, agrees with Penampangnites on his matter. By right, there should have been a consultation with the stakeholders, and secondly, it would be an extremely wise move to be transparent by having an open tender for this project (if there was none). These actions would have avoided Penampangnites being angry, frustrated, and unsupportive.
Dr. Bosi said the impact of the frequent floods and the empty promises of support and financial aid is already too bitter to bear, and this high parking fee is making the situation worse.
Dr. Bosi urges the newly minted Penampang Municipal Council (PMC) to reconsider the rate of parking within their jurisdiction. I feel sorry that the new President of the Council has started his new appointment with a strong discontentment among Penampangnites over this issue, Dr. Bosi added. It is not too late for the President to use his authority to revise the parking fee. He must consider the background of the people who frequent Donggongon township, who are mostly farmers and ordinary folks.
“I have consulted many Penampangnites who have no issue with the introduction of parking fees at Donggongon township. I believe they will not only throw their support but are forever grateful to the President if he can revise the rate to at least 50 cents or lower for the first hour,” he said.
