Bill > S2012

This bill grants the off-street parking board in the city of Worcester the authority to implement a surcharge on vehicles using the underground "CitySquare" garage, with rates potentially varying based on parking duration, monthly pass status, or daily transient use. The revenue generated from this surcharge will be deposited into a dedicated revolving fund, known as the "Worcester Common Environs Programing & Maintenance Revolving Fund," established under Massachusetts General Laws (G.L.) chapter 44, section 53E ½. This fund is intended to support the maintenance of the Worcester Common's infrastructure, public events held there, the operation of the winter skating rink, security measures, and a capital reserve for repairs or replacements of facilities on the common, as well as to help pay off debts incurred for these purposes. If the revolving fund is not reauthorized for a subsequent year, any remaining balance will revert to the off-street parking board for use on capital facilities under its control. The city treasurer is authorized to accept grants or gifts for this fund from various sources, provided public notice is given to the city council. Importantly, revenues from this surcharge will not be considered "project revenues" under any district improvement financing plan governed by G.L. chapter 40Q. The act takes effect upon the garage's opening or its passage, with initial year revenue treated as a "new revenue source" for the revolving fund.