Two state lawmakers are advocating for the option to pay for parking with cash or credit cards instead of solely relying on mobile payment.
State Representatives Brian Lorenz from Powell and Elgin Rogers from Toledo have recently introduced House Bill 442. The bill proposes a requirement for municipalities to accept not only mobile payments from apps, QR codes, and other electronic methods but also cash and credit card payments. This initiative aims to provide more convenience and accessibility to the public when it comes to making payments for various services and transactions.
Lorenz emphasized the importance of having multiple payment options in a free market, stating, “We should be able to pay for things in different ways.” This is especially crucial for older Ohioans or individuals who do not own a smartphone.
According to Keary McCarthy, the Executive Director of the Ohio Mayors Alliance, while the idea behind this proposal is well-intentioned, it ultimately undermines the authority of local leaders to effectively address the concerns of their residents. McCarthy argues that these issues would be better handled at the city level, rather than being dictated by the state government.
Ohio lawmakers have successfully prevented cities from enforcing their own gun laws, tobacco restrictions, plastic bag restrictions, regulating towing companies, and other regulations. McCarthy highlighted the need for state and local leaders to find a more effective way to handle the intricacies of home rule.
Many cities provide the option to pay for parking with either coins or credit cards, although this may not be available at every meter.
In Columbus, there are multiple options available for parking. One option is to use the ParkColumbus app, which is convenient for many drivers. Another option is to scan a code on the parking sign, providing an easy and efficient way to pay for parking. Additionally, there is the option to call the number displayed on the sign or even text “park” to that number. To cater to different preferences, parking kiosks are also available, allowing individuals to pay using credit or debit cards, as well as coins. However, it’s important to note that dollar bills are not accepted at these kiosks, as specified by the city’s Department of Parking Services.
In Cincinnati, you have multiple options for paying for parking. You can use credit cards or coins, as well as the convenient mobile payment options, CincyEZPark and PayByPhone. The City of Cincinnati’s Department of Community & Economic Development, Parking Division, reports that digital transactions now make up the majority of parking payments.
The parking division statement emphasized that as they strive to provide more mobile payment options, they have also taken into consideration the importance of retaining access to physical multi-space meters in the parking area. These meters still accept alternative forms of payment such as coins and credit cards. This approach aligns with Cincinnati’s commitment to accessibility and convenience for its residents.
The meters in Akron offer multiple payment options, including credit cards, coins, and the convenient Flowbird app. However, please note that dollar bills are not accepted as a form of payment.
Lorenz believes that it is not necessary for every meter to accept every payment. Instead, he suggests that as long as there is an alternative to mobile payments that is accessible and reasonably close, it would be fair and equitable for everyone involved. He explains, “I’m just trying to implement a system that ensures fairness and equal opportunity for all.”
