During a recent council meeting, discussions centered on traffic safety and speed limits in residential neighborhoods, prompted by a citizen's inquiry about appropriate speeds. Council member Bob Brookover advocated for reducing the speed limit to 20 miles per hour, referencing the \"20 is Plenty\" initiative, which has gained traction in various U.S. towns and was endorsed by the United Nations. The council previously set a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour in residential areas, but the current dialogue aims to explore the feasibility of further reductions and the implementation of supportive city policies.

The council is considering various engineering solutions to enhance neighborhood safety, including road redesigns and the installation of speed bumps. However, feedback from residents indicates mixed feelings about speed bumps, with some wanting them removed due to their ineffectiveness in slowing down non-resident drivers. The council also approved funding for additional automated speed signs, which have shown promise in reminding drivers of their speed and encouraging compliance.

Brookover shared insights on the effectiveness of these signs, noting their dual role in educating both drivers and pedestrians about speed limits. The council plans to utilize data from companies that track traffic speeds to strategically place these signs and assess their impact on traffic patterns.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the \"Vision Zero\" initiative, aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities. While the community has experienced few traffic deaths recently, the council emphasized the importance of proactive road design to prevent future incidents.

In other discussions, the council confirmed the acquisition of two new police cars funded by savings from bridge repairs, and addressed concerns about increased traffic on campus as the academic year begins. The chief of police acknowledged a return to typical traffic patterns but noted the need for further observation to determine if there is a significant increase.

Lastly, the council discussed the safety of scooter usage on roads and bike lanes, highlighting the need for public safety campaigns to educate students on safe riding practices, especially as the semester begins and traffic patterns shift.