Board approves VeriMobility contract to install bus stop cameras; revenues to be reinvested in student safety

The Seattle Public Schools board voted unanimously Thursday to authorize the superintendent to execute a contract with VeriMobility and two interlocal agreements with King County to operate stop‑paddle cameras on school buses for the 2025–26 school year.

Stephen Richard, presenting the proposal, told the board the Washington State Legislature authorizes school districts to use bus stop cameras to detect drivers illegally passing stopped buses and that the district previously ran a smaller pilot. He said neighboring districts reported hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue and that VeriMobility’s data show a high deterrent effect: "99 percent of drivers who were issued and paid a violation did not receive a second," he said.

Board discussion focused on coverage and enforcement. Director Sarju asked whether the contract covers every bus; presenters confirmed the district intends 100 percent coverage. Director Rankin asked how revenue is distributed; staff explained that proceeds are shared with the vendor and county for enforcement costs, and that state law requires any revenues retained by the district be devoted to student‑safety programming (for example, crossing guards).

King County will handle citation processing and enforcement through interlocal agreements because the district does not operate its own court or prosecutor, General Counsel Greg Narver explained. VeriMobility will validate potential violations and forward verified cases to the county for citation and due process.

The board approved the motion by roll call without dissent. Staff said there are no upfront costs for the district and that the vendor‑operated program is intended primarily as a traffic‑safety deterrent rather than a revenue source.