I-Team: Parking for the Big E

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Thousands of people go to the Big E everyday.  But there are only 600 parking spots on the Exposition grounds. That creates some side business for nearby property owners. The 22News I-Team found out if what they're doing is legal and if anyone is keeping an eye on these cash transactions.

"The Big E needs us because when they're full, we're the ones that take the overflow, they really need us", says West Springfield's Doreen McDonald.

Parking for the Big E is a cash business. Thousands of dollars handed over each day to businesses and property owners for a spot on their lawn. West Springfield doesn't control or police lawn parking. West Springfield Building Commissioner Patrick Moore told 22News there are no permits for selling parking spots. West Springfield's Tammy Siepierski told 22News she shares the money she gets with her landlord.  

"We split the money right down the middle", says Sipierski.
(Do you report the money on your taxes?)
"No, I don't pay taxes because I'm legally disabled", says Sipierski.

Certified Public Accountant Andy Pignatare told 22News if you're collecting cash for parking you should put it on your tax return as rental income. The IRS doesn't necessarily target people to audit, but the top two professions it does audit are pizza shops and lawyers.

(You make some decent cash during this week, do you then report it on your taxes?)
"No - because sometimes like Tuesday, when it rained, I wasn't out here so what would I claim?", asks McDonald.

The 22News I-Team asked the IRS to have an agent walk around this area with us, they declined. The IRS spokesperson told 22News they cannot talk about a taxpayer's situation. Although, Independent Contractors have to report all income, even if it is less than $600. The people parking their cars don't seem to mind where their money goes if it saves them a few bucks.  

"My husband's the local guy, he knows all the tricks it's very convenient for me with the girls, we're right here by the gate now and we can just enter the fair and when we finish we can get in our car and go", says Michele Clark from Burlington, Connecticut.

A Department of Revenue spokesperson told 22News they cannot discuss any audit.