Los Angeles City Council members Tuesday questioned the city’s recent decision to raise rates at parking meters, saying it may cost the city tax revenue.

Council members suggested that the increase — in some cases rising from $1 an hour to $4 — may discourage customers from patronizing Los Angeles businesses in some areas, decreasing the city’s take from sales tax.

Councilman Ed Reyes, who represents the Eastside, said he is hearing from restaurant owners that people are staying away because they don’t like the parking meter charges. Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who chairs the council’s Transportation Committee, said the city is counting on the increased revenue to help balance this year’s budget and cover the costs of new meters.

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