Following weeks of debate and consternation shared by area residents and downtown business owners, the St. Joseph City Commission is holding a special meeting this afternoon to discuss the Downtown Parking Program.

For the city, calling special meetings of the full commission in the middle of the day is relatively rare. The parking program started on May 15 and just 21 days in, the city has already admitted it started too early, signage was inadequate, and business owners say they’re seeing a drastic drop in revenues.

This afternoon’s meeting was called for by two commissioners, Tess Ulrey and Michael Sarola. At one of the recent meetings, Commissioner Ulrey called for the city to consider residential parking passes. Commissioner Sarola said the recommendation for paid parking originated with the Downtown Development Authority and the views of downtown business owners were not adequately reflected in their decision.

No word yet on specifically what about the parking will be discussed today. The special meeting will be held in the City Commission Chambers at 12:30 pm. Stay tuned to WSJM for updates.