Councilman becomes ‘Parking Elf’ to pay meters in downtown Colorado Springs

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- "Thank you," people say as they greet the "Parking Elf" who pays off downtown parking meters in Colorado Springs.

It's the seventh year in a row that City Councilman Richard Skorman wears a green and golden costume with a pointy hat, giving back to his customers and the local community.

"We know that it takes a little more effort to come downtown and it's not easy sometimes to worry about your parking meters," Skorman said. "So I want everyone to feel safe when they come down this Christmas season."

From Friday until Christmas Eve, people who park on the 300 block of North Tejon Street between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. don't need to carry quarters. Instead, Skorman pays of the $1 per hour parking outside his Poor Richard's Books & Gifts, Rico's Cafe & Wine bar, Little Richard's Toy Store and Poor Richard's Restaurant.

"It's kind of nice to have someone surprise you with a fun little thank you," said Heidi Prescott, who was downtown on a lunch break.

Skorman and his dog Lucy will patrol the meters every 20 minutes, on the lookout for drivers parking on the block. Although the annual tradition costs him between $800 and $1000, he says it's all about spreading the holiday cheer.

"People are so appreciative," he said. "They can't believe you're doing that for them. They always laugh. There's just a nice feeling."

The city of Colorado Springs increasing its downtown parking fees and hours, but Skorman says he will keep doing the winter service.

"I think I'm going to do it as long as I'm able," Skorman said smiling. "Not sure how many more years but hopefully a good couple dozen."