Free Parking Downtown

It may be the olive branch before the ax falls.

And/or, it’s a benevolent gesture from the politician to constituents.

Either way, it translates to free parking at downtown San Pedro meters through the holiday season.

Beginning Monday, meters will be bagged and posted time restrictions will be lifted. Councilwoman Janice Hahn’s self-proclaimed “gift” will keep on giving through the end of December.

“Allowing for free parking will give a boost to local shops and restaurants in San Pedro and Wilmington during the holidays and I hope it will become a tradition,” said Councilwoman Hahn.

“Particularly during these tough economic times, businesses need all the help they can get to increase sales, and holiday shoppers definitely deserve that extra break.”

Under a citywide ordinance, parking meter fees are going up to $1 an hour and $4 a day at the 10-hour meters. The increase was to be implemented this fall, but the rates have yet to change in San Pedro.