The paid parking program in downtown St. Joseph has been suspended so the city can have some time to fix problems and speak with residents.

Speaking at Monday’s regular meeting of the St. Joseph City Commission, City Manager Emily Hackworth said she has learned the placement of some of the parking kiosks is not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. That’s because some of them are installed on parking lot medians. For that reason, Hackworth said paid parking is now suspended, effective immediately.

“While we hit pause to correct this issue, it also gives us an opportunity to continue our discussions with our stakeholders, business owners, residents, downtown residents, and others, some of whom continue to have very real concerns about the program,” Hackworth said.

Commissioners Monday once again heard from a long line of residents opposed to the paid parking. Commissioner Michelle Binkley told the crowd the body does care about its concerns. However, she said two years of study went into the paid parking program and there are more benefits than most people know. She pledged the commissioners will work with downtown business owners while the pause is in place.

Mayor Brook Thomas said the passion people are showing demonstrates that St. Joseph is a strong community. She said the problems faced by the community can all be solved.

For now, paid parking is suspended.