YORKTON — Free parking weeks throughout the next 12 months were approved by Yorkton Council at its regular meeting Monday.
“To encourage business activity in the downtown area of Yorkton, Council has historically offered forms of free parking in the downtown during the holiday season,” explained Nicole Baptist – Bylaw & Safety Supervisor with the city. “. . . as part of the Downtown Parking Review 2021, it was recommended that additional Free Parking days be provided annually to encourage shopping local.”
As such, Administration proposed the following days for free parking over the next year:
* Dec. 9-26, 2025
* Feb. 9-13, 2026 (Valentine’s Day)
* April 1-8, 2026 (Easter)
* June 29-July 3, 2026 (Yorkton Ex Summer Fair)
* Aug. 24-28, 2026 (Back to School Week)
* Nov. 2-6, 2026 (Harvest Showdown)
Baptist did point out the free parking does cost the city revenue.
“Anytime that the City is offering free parking in our downtown parking lots we will lose revenue. Based on previous revenues, we anticipate a loss of approximately $50 per week that we offer free parking. Should we opt to move forward with the proposed dates, Administration anticipates a loss of approximately $400,” she said.
With approval Monday, city Administration will post signage on multi-space pay station machines stating that parking is currently free in those lots.
Councillor Stephanie Ortynsky questioned whether the free parking actually attracted more people to the downtown, and as a result were the costs worthwhile, suggesting the concept might better be shelved.
In the end the motion passed but Ortynsky did sit opposed.
