The policy has been in place for a year
and was unpopular with the Aldermen when it was announced, but
complaints from constituents have brought the issue back before the
board at its March 25 meeting.

"I understand that organizations
are having a hard time financially, but this gets on my last nerves,"
said Alderman at Large Bruce Desmond, who sponsored a resolution asking
CHA to stop charging for handicapped parking along with Ward 5 Alderman
Sean O'Donovan and at-large member Jack Connolly.

"(Disabled
persons and seniors) have no alternative. It's required by law. It's
reprehensible that (CHA) would charge to park there."

While the
Americans with Disabilities Act dictates the size, location and number
of accessible parking spaces, there is no law dictating that fees
cannot be charged.

Handicapped parking was free at Somerville
Hospital until February 2008. The current rate for seniors and disabled
persons to park at the lot on Tower Street is $5, which is required
upfront.

O'Donovan amended the resolution to request CEO Dennis
Keefe to appear and justify the practice. "I find it disgusting that
you'd have people come to your lot and charge," he said. "I'd like the
CEO to come to this podium and explain to the city what the policies
are. He should be ashamed of himself."

CHA Chief
Communications Officer Doug Bailey said the BOA had been informed of
the rate changes when they were made last year, and that the hospital's
parking fees remain among the lowest in Massachusetts.

The
initial decision to charge, Bailey said, stemmed from research that
showed every hospital in the country that charges for parking asked for
those using handicapped spots to pay as well.

"We're going to review some of the policies," Bailey said. "We have had some complaints."

"We
lose money on parking," he added. "We have discounted rates below that
of other hospitals around us. We're not doing anything that isn't the
norm of our industry."

The city solicitor has been asked to report to the board regarding the applicable laws on the issue.