Margate adopts ordinance permitting school-zone speed detection systems after heated debate and public testimony

The City Commission of Margate on April 16 approved an ordinance authorizing the installation and use of speed detection systems in school zones, after a lengthy public hearing and sharp debate over safety, enforcement and revenue.

The ordinance amends Chapter 33 (Police and Law Enforcement Offences) by adding a new section titled "Speed Detection Systems in School Zones," setting definitions, a safety-need determination process, a local hearing officer for appeals, and implementation procedures. The text presented at the meeting contemplated systems operating during school hours when lights are flashing and included a minimum threshold for citation (discussed in the meeting as roughly 10–11 miles per hour over the posted school-zone limit).

Vice Mayor Serio, who advocated for the measure, framed it as a safety tool and said the goal is to change…