During a recent Town Hall meeting in Cooper City, residents voiced their concerns about traffic enforcement, particularly on Hiatus Road, where speeding has become a significant issue. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of police presence to enforce speed limits, which are set at 35 to 40 miles per hour. One resident highlighted that despite living in the area for 36 years, they have never witnessed a police officer issuing traffic tickets on this road.
Captain of the local police department responded, acknowledging that while enforcement does occur, deputies are often spread thin across the city, prioritizing areas with greater needs, such as school zones. He noted that there have been calls for police presence between 8 PM and midnight due to excessive speeding, but emphasized that officers may arrive after the speeders have already left the area.
Residents argued that without consistent enforcement, speeders are unlikely to change their behavior. One speaker suggested reallocating funds from a proposed $2 million project to hire more police officers dedicated to monitoring Hiatus Road, asserting that this would better serve the community's needs.
The discussion reflects a growing concern among Cooper City residents about public safety and the effectiveness of current traffic enforcement measures. As the meeting continued, more residents raised their hands to contribute to the conversation, indicating a strong community interest in addressing these pressing issues. The dialogue underscores the importance of responsive governance and the need for effective public policy that aligns with residents' safety concerns.