In response to “Astoria increases parking fines downtown” (Dec. 19): Oh, no! It now costs $30 to $40 to park wherever and however I want for a whole day! That is not a deterrence, that’s a bargain to folks who have had to park in cities.

The fines need to be at least double, if not triple, to change behaviors. Oh, and add a tow and impound fee after 24 hours.

Finally, citing illegal parking in the “avenues” above downtown would probably generate enough income to fund at least one full-time employee parking officer. Covering the town would, definitely.

Still, thank you Astoria Police Department for getting after it. I hate the idea of fines funding officers, but parking and traffic enforcement need help, and this may be the only way to get it done.

THOMAS ANK

Astoria