A new report from the Yonkers inspector general reveals that parking placards issued by city agencies and workers' unions are allowing people to skirt parking regulations and meters.

The inspector general says that for the most part, the parking placards are being used for legitimate city business, but adds those who are abusing the system are costing the city tens of thousands of dollars a month.

The placards are issued to employees in the city of Yonkers, including police officers, firefighters and teachers. They are used for various purposes, including allowing police officers to avoid paying meters when they are called into court.

The inspector general says the system is being abused, and that the placards are being used to park in alternate side areas and bus stops.

The inspector general launched the investigation after anonymous complaints came in about suspected parking abuse.

The report found the city is losing about $28,000 a month in lost ticket revenue. It also says that the placards have no expiration date and aren't linked to one particular vehicle.

The inspector general is now proposing a new system where all city employees would go through the mayor's office to get the placards. Currently, each department individually issues them.

Mayor Mike Spano says he finds the report disturbing and is looking to make the changes the inspector general has recommended