JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Some Jackson residents called on the City Council to terminate a company’s contract that they described as a “profit before people” scheme.

The neighbors said the new parking meters are a hassle in the downtown area, especially for those who are elderly or disabled. Citizens gathered on the steps of City Hall on Tuesday to speak out against the fees related to parking citations in downtown Jackson.

SP Plus is the company that operates the new kiosks. If you don’t pay to park, you could be left with a $24 ticket, which increases to more than $40 if you don’t pay by a certain date.

“We got a lot of problems, a whole lot of problems. Parking meters shouldn’t be a problem,” said former Hinds County Supervisor David Archie.

Some residents called for the termination of the contract. Jackson City Councilman Kenneth Stokes, Ward 3, said the parking citation fees are excessive and harmful to businesses and residents.

“Councilmember Hartley requested that the man tell them to stop writing tickets, which is a good request. And this is, ‘Stop writing tickets in this city,'” said Stokes.

The councilman said he’s reviewing the contract between the city and SP to see what can be done. As far as a solution, it’s still being discussed within the city’s Planning Committee.