San Jose City Council increases garage parking rates, but holds off on meter hikes

It took three attempts for the San Jose City Council to reach a compromise Tuesday on contentious parking rate changes, with officials approving higher garage rates and special event fees while putting off plans for downtown meter rate increases and extended evening meter hours.

The final proposal passed 7-3 — with Councilmembers Peter Ortiz, Bien Doan and George Casey voting against it — after the council twice failed to reach a majority on broader changes. The approved plan raises the city garage hourly parking rate from $4 to $5, after the first free 90 minutes. For special events, garage rates will range from $15 to $35. The changes take effect in October.