In 1999, the city of Funchal experienced significant controversy surrounding the installation of parking meters in its downtown area. At the time, the mayor, Miguel Albuquerque, advocated for the measure as a way to end "free parking that does not benefit citizens."
The decision arose amidst a wave of abandoned vehicles on public roads and prolonged occupation of free parking spots by car rental companies. Albuquerque emphasized the need to ensure parking space turnover so that citizens could find places to park.
At the Municipal Assembly, varied parking prices were established by zone. The justification provided was that either a system ensuring rotation would be implemented, or spaces would be permanently occupied by abandoned cars or rental vehicles.
