Newmarket is inviting you to turn your parking tickets into meals to support local restaurants.
The town has launched a new initiative Jan. 21 called “Tickets for Takeout.” Residents will have the chance to have parking tickets cancelled if they provide a receipt from a Newmarket restaurant in an amount equal to or greater than the parking set fine.
Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said the town is trying to help restaurants hit hard amidst the pandemic and the latest round of shutdowns.
“Myself, members of council and town staff are always looking for new ways to work with our community to support our businesses,” Taylor said. “This is one simple way we can broaden our Choose Local campaign to help drive more revenue to our local businesses to help support them during this challenging time.”
Restaurants are still takeout only until Jan. 31 in Ontario, when they will be allowed to open indoor dining at half-capacity. But restaurants and businesses have called for stronger support from upper levels of government given the challenging circumstances.
Town of Newmarket parking tickets dated Jan. 21 to Jan. 31 are eligible. The restaurant receipt must be dated after the parking set fine, and within five days of it.
To participate, email [email protected] and provide a ticket number, proof of residency, and a photo of a receipt from a Newmarket restaurant. The program is for a limited time and tickets must be submitted by Feb. 7.
The program is for parking only, and tickets for accessible spaces, fire routes, or obstructions will not be eligible.
The town said it is part of the broader Choose Local campaign and was inspired by similar initiatives nearby municipalities, including Barrie and Whitchurch-Stouffville.
Residents wishing to support local restaurants or stores can visit the town’s Choose Local directory.
