Unlike many of my friends and co-workers, I actually like the new parking machines in Salt Lake City. While the cost to park has substantially increased, I like the option of paying with a credit card so I don't have to carry quarters. It's also really convenient that the receipt doesn't have to be placed on the dashboard. Everything seems to be automated.
That said, on Aug. 12, I parked on 100 South for a 4 p.m. appointment and went to the nearest machine to pay. After three attempts, the machine told me to "Use Another Machine."
I went to a second machine along the way to my appointment. That machine also told me to "Use Another Machine." Same thing with a third machine. At that point, I figured the system was down and proceeded to my appointment. I was surprised to later find a parking ticket on my windshield. If the "meter readers" can tell whether I paid or not, can't they tell when the system isn't working?
I sent a check to Salt Lake City Corporation with a note explaining the situation and told them to cash it "if they feel good about it." They cashed it. I don't feel good about that.
Barbara Bruno
Salt Lake City