A protest was held outside Islip's Town Hall Tuesday calling for elected officials to remove the parking meters in Bay Shore. 

The Town of Islip installed parking meters on Main Street and in the municipal lots in Bay Shore. 

Business owners like Karen Norris say there is confusion over numbered parking spots, which require a fee, and unnumbered spots, which are free. 

"It's not helping business in Bay Shore and it's causing frustration," says Norris. 

In a statement, Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter defended the meters, writing that they were installed to relieve congestion.

"The need for a managed parking program, which had the unanimous support of the Town Board, continues to grow," said Carpenter.