During their regular meeting April 11, Boothbay Harbor Selectmen discussed a coupon program to provide a modest discount to anyone who uses the town parking lots on a regular basis this summer. According to Selectman Bill Hamblen, the coupons would be open to everyone, whether they are tourists on an extended stay or locals who use the lots daily. The idea would likely benefit local employees and shop owners as it would free up street parking for visitors. As of now, parking is still a relative bargain at $7 a day, said Hamblen, who despite this sees room for a discount.

“If we decide to proceed, we could for example, sell a coupon book with coupons for five days of parking for $30; a dollar a day discount,” Hamblen explained. “When the patron parks, he or she would pay the parking ambassador with the coupon rather than cash, and the attendant would provide a receipt for the day's parking, just as they do now. It would be simple to administer and provide some small recognition for the people who use the lots the most.”

Both Hamblen and Boothbay Harbor Town Manager Tom Woodin described the coupon concept as being in the exploratory stage. The board also explored options for long-term parking for boaters with the suggestion of providing free parking at the high school and possibly joining forces with the Opera House to use its lot during the day. Hamblen brought up the idea of a mixed use parking garage at some point, a solution questioned by Selectman Wendy Wolf for the added expense.

“I'm not a parking expert but I do know these are perpetual issues in landlocked towns,” Wolf said.

The board acknowledged the seasonal nature of the dilemma as it continues to seek solutions. Hamblen praised Boothbay Harbor Police Chief Bob Hasch for his role in helping the town fix what has been acknowledged as a parking nightmare before Hasch took over 12 years ago.

“We don’t want to break what is already fixed. It's an irritant for us for a short time in the summer,” Hamblen said. “What is the economic impact of lack of parking? Is it $10,000, is it $50,000 or is it $100,000? Knowing this would bear how far you go to find a solution.”

Hamblen indicated the board is hoping to receive input from the public and business owners before making any final decisions.

In other business, the board approved a victualer and liquor license for Harborside Tavern proprietor Fiona Dunlap. The establishment will occupy the former home of Andrews’ Harborside and is scheduled to open in late spring.

“Congratulations,” said Wolf, who added jokingly, “We'll be over for dinner tomorrow.”