JEFFERSON CITY — Nearly four years after first suggesting the idea, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has launched a valet parking service in the Capitol parking garage.

As lawmakers streamed back to the capital city Wednesday for the start of the new legislative session, those with access to the basement garage were greeted by a taxpayer-paid parking attendant, who will help jockey vehicles into the limited space.

“It’s a good part-time job to have when you’re 70,” said Roger Lehnhoff, who started Monday.

Along with the prime parking spots, the valet is one more perk enjoyed by some members of the House and Senate, who are paid $35,900 annually for their work during the January to May session.

Lehnhoff is a retired maintenance supervisor with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. He said a state official contacted him about the post, which pays $15.50 per hour.

Lehnhoff said the job will last until lawmakers leave for the summer.