FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — The debate over paid parking in downtown Fernandina Beach has sparked strong reactions among business owners and residents. 

Tonight, city commissioners are expected to make a big decision that could shape the future of the historic downtown area.

City commissioners will choose between three vendors — SP+ Parking, One Parking Inc., and Elite Parking Services to manage a potential paid parking program downtown.

Lori Lecker, a longtime shop owner, voiced strong opposition to the plan.

“Please don’t do it. It’s gonna ruin our little town that we all treasure,” said Lori Lecker

Lecker owns three stores in the downtown area and says the plan could have serious financial consequences to her businesses.

“I have three stores on the street that’s going to make put me in a position that I’m gonna have to pay for all of my employees parking so that’s gonna be a huge detriment to the business, said Lecker.

She also worries about losing local customers, who make up nearly half of her clientele, and the potential impact on the historic charm of the area.

“I feel like a lot of locals will deter people from coming downtown. It’s hard enough to get the south end residence to come downtown and shop so this is just gonna be one further you know detrimental to their decision,” said Lecker.

Residents have also expressed concerns online, with a petition against paid parking gathering hundreds of signatures in just days. Lecker says she isn’t surprised by the response.

“It’s just a bridge too far. Nobody wants that anymore and it’s another thing that adds to the charm of Amelia Island. None of us have to worry about anything like that, said Lecker

City commissioners are expected to announce their decision Tuesday, August 19th at 6 p.m. during the city commission meeting. If approved, the city will begin negotiating contracts with the selected vendor and outline how and where paid parking will be implemented.