St. Joseph City Commissioner Michael Sarola, who is seeking re-election this fall, says the city’s recent paid parking controversy remains unresolved and will likely shape future discussions about downtown operations.

Sarola, the top vote-getter when he was elected to the post four years ago, told WSJM’s Morning Show with Ken & Friends , that while the idea behind paid parking was sound, the city miscalculated in its rollout. He said community pushback was stronger than anticipated, leading the commission to suspend the program for the summer.

“The overwhelming majority of residents and business owners I’ve talked with don’t want paid parking to return,” Sarola said, though he noted the city still faces congestion during peak beach season. He suggested adjusting time limits for spaces

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