The city's manager of parking says 18 single and 28 double parking meters have been removed in recent days as a result of vandalism and theft.
Nicole Maione, Sault Ste. Marie's manager of Transit, told SooToday the damage has been occurring over the course of several days.
"We believe that vandals are looking for money and it is our understanding that the meters were smashed," said Maione.
Metal poles that once had the meters attached can be seen throughout downtown. Maione confirmed the city removed the meters, although some still remain on Queen Street as of Thursday.
The daily average amount of change in each meter is about five dollars, but the total amount can depend on where it is located and when it was last emptied, said Maione.
"Parking meters generally don’t hold a lot of money," she said.
The revenue from parking meters is used to offset parking operating expenses such as maintenance and supplies, snow removal, snow clearing, repair and parking enforcement.
Maione said Sault Police has been notified about the vandalism and theft and the city is exploring options for replacing the meters.
"There currently is the Passport Parking Mobile app available for payment on street parking," said Maione.
Asked if the city expects the public to use the app for the spots without meters, city spokesperson Tessa Vecchio said yes.
"We expect people to use the app but recognize that there may be an education and transition period," she said.