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Significant Accounting Policies and Practices (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Significant Accounting Policies and Practices  
Principles of Consolidation
  • Principles of Consolidation

        The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly owned subsidiaries, and variable interest entities in which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interest recorded in the consolidated statement of income is the interest in consolidated variable interest entities not controlled by the Company. The Company has ownership interests in thirty-eight partnerships, joint ventures or similar arrangements which operate parking facilities. Twenty nine are Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and nine are voting interest model entities where the company ownership ranges from 20-50% and it does not control the entities. The Company consolidates those VIE's where it is the primary beneficiary and accounts for voting interest entities that it does not control using the equity method of accounting. The assets and liabilities of the VIE's are not material to the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. All significant intercompany profits, transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Parking Services Revenue
  • Parking Services Revenue

        The Company's revenues are primarily derived from leased locations, managed properties and the providing of ancillary services, such as accounting, payments received for exercising termination rights, consulting development fees, gains on sales of contracts, insurance and other value-added services. In accordance with the guidance related to revenue recognition, revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the fees are fixed or determinable, collectability is reasonably assured and as services are provided. The Company recognizes gross receipts (net of taxes collected from customers) as revenue from leased locations, and management fees for parking services, as the related services are provided. Ancillary services are earned from management contract properties and are recognized as revenue as those services are provided.

Cost of Parking Services
  • Cost of Parking Services

        The Company recognizes costs for leases, non-reimbursed costs from managed facilities and reimbursed expense as cost of parking services. Cost of parking services consists primarily of rent and payroll related costs.

Advertising Costs
  • Advertising Costs

        Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses. Advertising expenses aggregated $796, $317 and $308 for 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Stock-Based Compensation
  • Stock-Based Compensation

        Share based payments to employees including grants of employee stock options and restricted stock units are measured at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and the expense is recognized over the requisite employee service period (generally the vesting period) for awards expected to vest (considering estimated forfeitures).

Cash and Cash Equivalents
  • Cash and Cash Equivalents

        Cash equivalents represent funds temporarily invested in money market instruments with maturities of three months or less. Cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
  • Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

        Accounts receivable, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, represents our estimate of the amount that ultimately will be realized in cash. Management reviews the adequacy of its allowance for doubtful accounts on an ongoing basis, using historical collection trends, aging of receivables, and a review of specific accounts, and makes adjustments in the allowance as necessary. Changes in economic conditions or other circumstances could have an impact on the collection of existing receivable balances or future allowance considerations. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts was $2,577 and $2,969, respectively.

Leasehold Improvements, Equipment, and Construction in Progress, net
  • Leasehold Improvements, Equipment, and Construction in Progress, net

        Leasehold improvements, equipment, software, vehicles, and other fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Equipment is depreciated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives ranging from 2 to 10 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on the straight-line basis over the terms of the respective leases or the service lives of the improvements, whichever is shorter (weighted average of approximately 10 years).

        Costs associated with directly obtaining, developing or upgrading internal-use software are capitalized and amortized over the estimated useful life of software.

Cost of Contracts
  • Cost of Contracts

        Cost of parking contracts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the weighted average contract life which is 9.5 years for the year ending December 31, 2012, 9.7 years for the year ending December 31, 2011 and 9.5 years for the year ending December 31, 2010. Amortization expense was $3,142, $2,275 and $1,907 in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Goodwill
  • Goodwill

        We test goodwill for impairment annually and more frequently if circumstances warrant. We determine fair values for each of the reporting units using an income approach. For purposes of the income approach, fair value is determined based on the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at an appropriate risk-adjusted rate. We use our internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows and include an estimate of long-term future growth rates based on our most recent views of the long-term outlook for each segment. These assumptions could be adversely impacted by certain of the risks discussed in "Risk Factors" in Item 1A of this Form 10-K/A. Actual results may differ from those assumed in our forecasts. We use discount rates that are commensurate with the risks and uncertainty inherent in the respective reporting units and in our internally developed forecasts.

        We performed our annual impairment test for goodwill at all of our reporting units in the fourth quarter. In performing the valuations, we used cash flows from managements most recent forecast and assumed a growth rate of 0% for future periods, a discount factor of 10% when calculating the present value of our estimated future cash flow, slightly higher than our weighted average cost of capital as determined by an independent valuation firm engaged by the Company to determine market value of the Company previous to the merger with Central and reflected the risks associated with the then current market. Additionally, we used cash flows, which reflected management's forecasts and discount rates which reflect the risks associated with the current market. Based on the results of our testing, the fair values of each of our reporting units exceeded their book values; therefore, the second step of the impairment test (in which fair value of each of the reporting unit's assets and liabilities is measured) was not required to be performed and no goodwill impairment was recognized.

        Estimating the fair value of reporting units involves the use of estimates and significant judgments that are based on a number of factors including actual operating results. If current conditions change from those expected, it is reasonably possible that the judgments and estimates described above could change in future periods.

Long Lived and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
  • Long Lived and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

        Long-lived assets and identifiable intangibles with finite lives are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset or group of assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

Debt Issuance Costs
  • Debt Issuance Costs

        The costs of obtaining financing are capitalized and amortized as interest expense over the term of the respective financing using the interest rate method. Debt issuance costs of $5,149 and $950 at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and are reflected net of accumulated amortization. Amortization expense was $1,211, $638 and $638 at December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Financial Instruments
  • Financial Instruments

        The carrying values of cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments. Long-term debt has a carrying value that approximates fair value because these instruments bear interest at variable market rates.

Foreign Currency Translation
  • Foreign Currency Translation

        The functional currency of the Company's foreign operations is the local currency. Accordingly, assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign operations are translated from foreign currencies into U.S. dollars at the rates in effect on the balance sheet date while income and expenses are translated at the weighted-average exchange rates for the year. Adjustments resulting from the translations of foreign currency financial statements are accumulated and classified as a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Interest Rate Caps
  • Interest Rate Swaps

        We do not enter into derivative instruments for any purpose other than cash flow hedging purposes.

        October 25, 2012, the Company entered into Interest Rate Swap transactions (collectively, the "Interest Rate Swaps") with each of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ("JPMorgan Chase Bank"), Bank of America, N.A. ("Bank of America") and PNC Bank, N.A. in an initial aggregate Notional Amount of $150,000 (the "Notional Amount"). The Interest Rate Swaps have an effective date of October 31, 2012 and a termination date of September 30, 2017. The Interest Rate Swaps effectively fix the interest rate on an amount of variable interest rate borrowings under the Credit Agreement ("the Credit Agreement"), originally equal to the Notional Amount at 0.7525% per annum plus the applicable margin rate for LIBOR loans under the Credit Agreement determined based upon Standard's consolidated total debt to EBITDA ratio. The Notional Amount is subject to scheduled quarterly amortization that coincides with quarterly prepayments of principal under the Credit Agreement. These Interest Rate Swaps are classified as cash flow hedges, and we calculate the effectiveness of the hedge on a monthly basis. The ineffective portion of the cash flow hedge is recognized in earnings as an increase of interest expense. As of December 31, 2012, no ineffectiveness of the hedge has been recognized. The fair value of the Interest Rate Swaps at December 31, 2012 is $794 and is included in other long-term liabilities.

Use of Estimates
  • Use of Estimates

        The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current environment.

Insurance Reserves
  • Insurance Reserves

        The Company purchases comprehensive casualty insurance covering certain claims that arise in connection with our operations. In addition, the Company purchases umbrella/excess liability coverage. The Company's various liability insurance policies have deductibles of up to $250 that must be met before the insurance companies are required to pay directly to or reimburse the Company for costs incurred relating to covered claims. As a result, the Company is, in effect, self-insured for all claims up to the deductible levels. The Company applies the provisions as defined in the guidance related to accounting for contingencies, in determining the timing and amount of expense recognition associated with claims against the Company. The expense recognition is based upon the Company's determination of an unfavorable outcome of a claim being deemed as probable and capable of being reasonably estimated, as defined in the guidance related to accounting for contingencies. This determination requires the use of judgment in both the estimation of probability and the amount to be recognized as an expense. The Company utilizes historical claims experience along with regular input from third party insurance advisors in determining the required level of insurance reserves. Future information regarding historical loss experience may require changes to the level of insurance reserves and could result in increased expense recognition in the future.

Contingencies
  • Contingencies

        The Company is subject to litigation in the normal course of our business. The Company applies the provisions as defined in the guidance related to accounting for contingencies in determining the recognition and measurement of expense recognition associated with legal claims against the Company. Management uses guidance from internal and external legal counsel on the potential outcome of litigation in determining the need to record liabilities for potential losses and the disclosure of pending legal claims.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

        Income tax in the consolidated statement of operations includes deferred income tax provisions or benefits for all significant temporary differences in recognizing income and expenses for financial reporting and income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is established if it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

Reimbursed Management Contract Revenue and Expense

Reimbursed Management Contract Revenue and Expense

        The Company recognizes as both revenues and expenses, in equal amounts, costs incurred by the Company that are directly reimbursed from its management clients. The Company has determined it is the principal in these transactions, as defined in ASC 605-45 Principal Agent Considerations, based on the indicators of gross revenue reporting. As the principal, we are the primary obligor in the arrangement, have latitude in establishing price, discretion in supplier selection, and we assume credit risk.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements
  • Recent Accounting Pronouncements

    Accounting Standards Adopted

        In May 2011, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance related to amendments to achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements. The guidance amends certain accounting and disclosure requirements related to fair value measurements to ensure that fair value has the same meaning in U.S. GAAP and in IFRS and that their respective fair value measurement and disclosure requirements are the same. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

        In September 2011, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance related to testing goodwill for impairment. The amendments provide entities with the option of performing a qualitative assessment before performing the first step of the two-step impairment test. If entities determine, on the basis of qualitative factors, it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than or greater than the carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test would be unnecessary. However, if an entity concludes otherwise, then it is required to perform the first step of the two-step impairment test by calculating the fair value of the reporting unit and comparing the fair value with the carrying amount of the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then the entity is required to perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. The amendment also provides entities with the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period and proceed directly to the first step of the two-step impairment test. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. We test for impairment annually during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. We adopted this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2012 and it did not have a material effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-12, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which deferred the effective date for applying ASU 2011-05, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income, in respect of certain provisions relating to the presentation of separate line items on the income statement for reclassifications of items out of accumulated other comprehensive income into income, in order for the FASB to further evaluate this change in standard before implementation. The deferral is temporary and other provisions of ASU 2011-05 were effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2012. The adoption of this update impacted the presentation and disclosure of the Company's financial statements but did not impact the Company's results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

  • Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

        In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2011-11, Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities. This update requires additional disclosures about offsetting and related arrangements on assets and liabilities to enable users of financial statements to understand the effect of such arrangements on an entity's financial position as reported. This amendment is effective for fiscal 2014, and adoption of this standard change will only affect the footnote disclosures within consolidated financial statements. Once adopted, these disclosure provisions will apply retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. Although the Company is still evaluating the impact of this guidance, we do not believe that its adoption will have a material effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows but could impact financial statement disclosures.

        In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU 2012-2, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment. This update provides an entity with the option to make a qualitative assessment about the likelihood that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired and then determine whether it should perform a quantitative impairment test. The amendment is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012 with early adoption permitted. Although the Company is still evaluating the impact of this guidance, we do not believe that its adoption will have a material effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.