The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners want free parking for visitors who attend commissioners meetings.

The board discussed the issue at the Nov. 12 meeting.

Some board members argued a fee of any sort is unfair to the community at large.

"They should be able to park for free," Commissioner Percy Dougherty said. "They should not have to pay $3, $10 or even one penny."

Since the construction of the PPL Center, Allentown, parking in the area has been at a premium. A private parking garage at Hamilton and Seventh streets charging a fee now is used by those attending PPL Center events.

Dougherty recommended permitting residents who attend meetings to park for free in the parking deck owned by the county. The deck is located at Walnut Street, between Sixth and Seventh streets.

He also suggested a parking pass system for residents interested in attending meetings.

Commissioner Michael Schware concurred with Dougherty's suggestion.

County Director of General Services Rick Molchany said he is open to suggestions to allow for free parking and will look into a pass system for those who attend meetings.

Commissioner Amanda Holt pointed out parking on the street is free after 6 p.m.

The county previously said there were no commissioners meetings scheduled on PPL Center event nights. However, a Dec. 17 hockey game is scheduled, which conflicts with a board meeting.

Dougherty also said it is unreasonable to reconfigure the commissioners meeting schedule as residents expect meetings the second and fourth Wednesays each month.

No action was taken on the issue during the meeting.