Council also voted against a motion from Councillor Margaret McCarthy, who argued that paid parking shouldn't be implemented in Waterdown until its development freeze is lifted.

Yesterday's decision ended a long-running debate about Hamilton's parking rates. In December 2008, council rejected a similar increase, arguing it wouldn't be fair to merchants to risk driving customers away during a recession.

This year, many council members instead said paid street parking will be positive for businesses as it will encourage more turnover of parking spaces. They also argued it will encourage more people to walk or take public transit.