Dear Editor:
I wonder if letter writer Laurel Bryson (Meters Running on Time With Loved Ones, Nov. 17) is aware that she could apply for a "disabled parking" sign that can be used if she is picking up or dropping off her father at Evergreen House, or any other area where handicapped parking is available? I was not aware of that years ago when I had to transport my own father to various doctors' appointments when he had his Alzheimer's.
Also, some residences with disabled residents have "loaner" handicap signs that can be used while you are visiting their premises, or if you take one of their residents out for a drive, etc.
I wonder if most people realize that the number 1 reason for changing the parking, as mentioned in your earlier stories, was because so many hospital employees were the ones who were taking up the majority of the free street parking. It used to irritate me that we taxpayers were subsidizing their free parking, because so many staff members would have to run out every two hours to move their cars. When you were a patient or were visiting one, it seemed to be an accepted practice for a nurse to say they were running out to move their car. That was just because they didn't want to walk an extra few blocks where parking was allowed all day.
Why hospital staff think they are entitled to free parking close to their job is a question I've had for a long time. When I worked downtown, I didn't expect free parking to come with my job. I either paid for my parking or took the bus. My daughter-in-law is an RN at Burnaby General where there is only metered parking in all directions for blocks and blocks. She pays for parking in the parkade for the convenience of being close to work, and not having to go outside.
Now those of us who have to visit loved ones or go to Lions Gate Hospital for any tests or surgeries have to pay the price.
I understand, too, the frustrations of the people who live in the apartment blocks close to the hospital. But when they opted to rent their apartment they knew the hospital was there.
I do agree with Laurel Bryson's excellent suggestion that the City of North Vancouver should recycle the meters and top the posts with flower planters instead.
Arlene S. King
North Vancouver
