Recently, my husband and I twice had the pleasure of dining at restaurants located on upper Lisbon Street in Lewiston.

We totally agree that Lisbon Street is on the rise to success . . . except for parking. Both times, we had to settle on parking along Park Street, since there were no spaces available on Lisbon Street.

Our problem was with the meters on Park Street: The maximum time allowed is one hour. By the time you have cut across to Lisbon Street, walked to the destination and had lunch, then walk back to your vehicle, you have surpassed that hour.

One day, we returned to find the kind meter maid in the process of writing a ticket and she was gracious enough to forgive it. On another day, we returned to an expired meter.

If we are to encourage local businesses, and if there must be income from the meters, the meters should be extended to two hours, so that customers are not pressed for time and can enjoy their luncheons accordingly.

Would that be a matter for the newly-elected city council? Or must we take our business to the Auburn Mall, where parking is free and plentiful?

Rachel Cyr, Lewiston