Atlanta offers amnesty for parking ticket penalties

Anyone who’s skipped out on paying parking tickets or failed to get a business license in Atlanta is about to get a break from the cash-strapped city.

The council approved on Monday a 60-day amnesty that will waive penalties and interest for those with outstanding money due the city for either reason.

Gary Donaldson, with the city’s department of revenue, said Atlanta hopes to bring in as much as $4 million if all goes well. A similar program in 2004 netted about $4 million as well, he said.

“You only do this when there’s a recession,” Donaldson said. “Otherwise it doesn’t make sense.”

Donaldson said the city is owed more than $10 million in overdue parking tickets, plus penalties and interest. He said there’s no idea how much extra money Atlanta could get from folks who might step forward to request business licenses.

“It’s a good idea,” said Councilwoman Mary Norwood. “We need to get revenue in. This has been effective in the past.”

The measure passed the city council by an 11-0 vote Monday with no discussion. The amnesty period begins Oct. 1 and ends Dec. 1.

Atlanta officials have previously reported declining sales tax revenues which could force the city into another round of cuts if no new money is found. The amnesty program might help offset other losses, if it’s effective, officials said.

Councilwoman Natalyn Archibong said any amnesty program comes with a price — giving up on revenues you are rightfully owed to get money now.

“The business owners and people who are law abiding can complain that those who didn’t pay are being rewarded,” Archibong said. “That isn’t fair. But, given the economic reality of the city, I’m supportive of anything that will bring in more money.”