Dads eye use of idle lots as free public parking spaces

IN AN effort to maximize the city’s streets, the City Council is eyeing idle lots in and around the city to be used as parking space.

In its recent meeting, the committee on roads and traffic management, chaired by Councilor Romeo Calizo, discussed the proposed ordinance granting incentives through exemption from payment of real property tax to owners of vacant lots within the commercial districts who will convert or allow the use of their properties for free public parkings.

Councilor Lordan Suan is the main author of the proposed legislation.

For his part, Jose Edgardo Uy of Task Force Hapsay Dalan welcomed the proposed ordinance since it will provide motorists of the city safe parking spaces.

Calizo cited the advantages of the proposal but said there is a need to first identify idle lots in the city.

The councilor has tasked the City Planning and Development Office in coordination with the City Assessment Department to look into the proposed legislation as suggested by Engr. Nonito Oclarit of the Roads and Traffic Administration.

Calizo designated the RTA to study the concept on how other cities went ahead on this undertaking.

“I think this matter needs further study and maybe on the next meeting. Let us just comply with our assigned tasks, we have to be a little pro-active. OBO and City Planning should already come up with an anticipated plan on this so that in the event that there are no impediments, the concept will really favor the city. Let’s go ahead with the plan,” Calizo said. (clo)