ST. JOHNSBURY - Parking on the main streets of St. Johnsbury for the holidays just got a little bit easier.

At Monday's select board meeting, board members and towns people made the decision to continue the tradition of suspending parking meter fees for the holidays.  The intention is to make it more convenient for holiday shoppers. The free parking is intended for shopping, not for all day parking.

Newly appointed Chamber of Commerce President, Jeff Moore said, "I believe that retailers in town enjoy it.  It definitely helps them with their promoting their businesses."

Carole-Ann Mastoianni, Manager at the Eastern-Main Market Deli agreed.  "I actually think its a really good idea.  I think that during the day, when there's shoppers out, or in the evenings, then people can shop.  With the bad economic times, it's nice to not have to pay the little bit of money it is to put in the meter."

Some small business owners on Main Street felt that the town should get rid of the meters all together since money is already tight.

Moore is not for or against the ridding of the meters.  "That becomes a more complicated issue.  Much more complicated than just free parking for the holidays."

Although there are some members of the town who oppose suspending meter fees, the people we've spoke with agree with the town's decision.

The lift on meter fees will begin the day after Thanksgiving, and will run through the month of December.  Parking will be free during the day, but will still be forbidden at night.  Violators will be ticketed.