Steve Rhoades: Dissatisfied with city’s parking enforcement

The city of Northampton has a real racket going with their parking enforcement. They trick you when you read the first line of the meter by saying it goes until 5 p.m. I saw that and didn’t bother reading further. Only to find a ticket later and then seeing there is another line that says 5 p.m. to later. An honest mistake that I appealed since I was out celebrating a birthday in the city.

The appeal was denied, saying I should read the meter. Others that night were tricked also as I heard them complaining to the traffic officer.

Well Northampton, I guess money is more important than visitors. The next outing I have will not be to Northampton. I wonder how much increased revenue you have gotten since you have instituted this trickery. On top of a $15 ticket they charge you $3.95 processing fee online. Outrageous!

I hope others will assert their power and go to other towns. Let’s see how the businesses in Northampton like that. I sign this a very dissatisfied visitor.

Steve Rhoades

Bernardston