Dear Editor:
I am a senior, and I would like to share a frustrating and costly mistake I made while shopping at the Royal City Centre mall.
I arrived early for a 9: 30 a.m. dentist appointment and parked in the underground lot. After the dentist I made some purchases at the dollar store, lottery booth and Black Bond books. Deciding that I needed lunch and a cup of coffee, I ate at White Spot.
From there I made my way to the parking lot and proceeded to back out of my spot, suddenly remembering I needed to go to the bank. I pulled into another spot and crossed the street to the Royal Bank. Not 10 minutes later I was back and on my way home. While driving I noticed what I thought was a flyer under my wiper blade, but when I got home I discovered it was a parking ticket from Diamond Parking Ltd. for the amount of $61.60 if paid withing 10 days, or $78.40 if paid later, and if not paid within 30 days it would be sent to a collection agency.
I was and still am angry, as I try to shop within New Westminster whenever possible. The posted sign states four hours free parking while shopping at Royal City Centre. I feel that additional signage should be added so people know exactly what the parking regulations are. I realize that ignorance is not an excuse, but I would like to warn others so they do not experience the same shock that I did.
Anne Marie Gerak, New Westminster
