To the editor:

The recent news articles that suggested fee reductions for Lawrence public schools were duly noted and saluted. Any school fees to attend public schools should be borne by the public at large as they unduly impact the less fortunate among us.

The question arises: Why are parking fees less than the cost of riding the bus? Are we trying to encourage teens to drive to school? At the very modest rate of $2 to $5 per day, the parking fee would be $360 to $900 per year. It should be paid in advance with no refunds ever for any reason. Perhaps fees at that level would ease the shortage of parking spaces, but not much due to teens’ natural desire to have wheels.

Fee reductions could be available to those who:

1. live more than a mile from school;

2. live more than a half-mile from public transit;

3. are willing to sign a contract committing to carpooling with similarly qualified students or staff; and

4. of course, for some disabilities.

The above fee scenario would easily pay for a parking lot attendant who could monitor compliance and collect a much higher daily fee for those who only drive occasionally. Parking coupons could be sold in advance to eliminate any need for the lot attendant to handle cash or make change.

Please do not complain about emergencies or other exceptions. Given a little thought, they can likewise be handled.

Lawrence Bodle,

Lawrence