Parking Taxes, Conference, Education Head NPA Agenda


PT spoke with Marty Stein, President of the National Parking Association in his office inWashington DC.


“C


ITIES NEEDMONEY, SOTHEY increase taxes on parking opera- tors. Before they do that, why not enforce the laws that exist and col- lect


that money?”


Marty Stein was a parking operator in Michigan before he became head of the National Parking Association. He is proud that his heritage can bring knowl- edge and depth to his position.


“Yes, I amaware that a parking operator (not


an NPAmember, by the way) has been convicted of tax evasion in LosAngeles.And I’m glad that this is happening. It’s about time thatmunicipali- ties begin to be consistent in the application of the law. Legitimate operators need to know that as they followthe lawand collect and pay the tax- es, they aren’t putting themselves at a competi- tive disadvantage to organizations that don’t.” “I do believe, however, that due to the cur-


rent economic downturn,municipalities are look- ing at every possible revenue source. They aren’t really in a position to raise property taxes, so they look to private businesses to help pay their bills. Parking is an easymark for them.” “I was thinking about all this while I was


driving in this morning.At Connecticut and L, just around the corner, there is a tremendous back up every morning, caused by people who cross the street against the “don’t walk” sign. They block traffic and prevent people from turning right and cause a lot of congestion. “It seems to me that if the city enforced the


“Walk/Don’t Walk” signs by having someone stand there and pass out tickets, two thingswould happen – revenuewould be generated for the city, and congestion would be lessened. Our legisla- tors seem to want to generate income by passing new laws where the goal should be to actually enforce the laws we have.” “Parking is an integral part of our city. If all the garages


closed on any given day, the city would be at a standstill. Turning to the latest news from NPA headquarters,Marty


said the group is excited about its convention being held October 12-15 at National Harbor,MD. “It’s a beautiful setting overlooking the Potomac, and in a world class property with all the amenities to make the Parking


20 OCTOBER 2009 • PARKING TODAY • www.parkingtoday.com


Show of Shows a grand success. “The exhibit hall is full: we have exceeded the number of


vendors we had last year. That in itself is surprising since Las Vegas was such a big draw. Registrations are strong, and we are looking forward to a great convention. “OurKeynote speaker,T.Boone Pickens, has a lot to say, not


only about The Pickens Plan, his environmental initiative, but also on the economy and our dependence on foreign oil.We have a great mix of business sessions for private operators, hospitals, airports,municipalities, or valet operators; there is something for


everybody. The NPA is noted for its long history and networking opportunities. Our members have decades of experience and mingle and work with newcomers, share ideas, and make the industry better. “In addition to all that, the NPA is proud to be a presenting


sponsor for the National BuildingMuseum’s new exhibit entitled Continued on Page 22


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