HAGERSTOWN – A downtown business owner addressed the Hagerstown City Council this week, proposing flat-rate fees at the city’s parking structure, particularly on special event days. His suggestions were backed by those of the president and CEO of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce as well.
During the Tuesday, March 25, council session, Cort Meinelschmidt, owner of several downtown establishments, including Vivas on Potomac, Meinelschmidt Distillery and the upcoming Dugout Sports Bar, argued in favor of increasing parking rates at the Hub City parking deck to $15 during Flying Box Car Day. He cited similar event rates in nearby areas ranging from $10 to $20. He recommended that the A&E deck adjust to a flat $10 rate while the University deck should remain at $5 to encourage local visitors.
“Flat rates simplify decisions for visitors,” Cort explained. “If guests have already paid a flat fee, they are more likely to extend their stay downtown, benefiting local businesses.”
Representing the Chamber, President and CEO Paul Frey echoed Cort’s sentiments, further advocating for consistent flat rates across downtown parking decks during event nights. “We need to create conditions that encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy our local amenities,” Frey said, highlighting the economic benefits for businesses when visitors don’t feel pressured by hourly parking fees.
Both urged the council to host collaborative work sessions with downtown businesses to discuss parking rate structures thoroughly. They emphasized the importance of addressing the needs for the remaining 80 percent of the calendar year outside event days, noting the necessity for flat evening and weekend rates to stimulate ongoing downtown commerce and visitor retention.
Council members appeared receptive to the feedback, acknowledging the importance of balancing municipal revenue needs with strategies to boost local businesses and downtown vibrancy. The proposal will be reviewed further in upcoming council sessions and continued dialogue between city officials and the downtown business community is expected.
