Sheriff urges stop sign, stepped-up enforcement after speeding on East Center Street near school

Sheriff Huntington told the Huntington City Council on June 18 that deputies have observed vehicles traveling “definitely faster than the allowed speed limit” on East Center Street, especially on the east side of town near the elementary school. He recommended installing a stop sign—suggesting 3rd East as a likely location—and offered sheriff’s office support for initial education and later enforcement.

"I would recommend that," the sheriff said, adding that enforcement would be phased: officers would publicize the change and advise drivers before issuing tickets. The sheriff emphasized the safety risk because the road runs along the south side of the elementary school and children are frequently present.

Mayor Ronnie Torrey and council members discussed the legal and procedural steps for installing traffic control devices, noting the city must follow the state’s uniform code for street signs, advertise proposed locations, and ensure signage meets visibility standards. The mayor asked staff to survey nearby residents about the proposal before installation.

Councilmembers and the sheriff also discussed short-term measures to improve safety. The sheriff said his office would prioritize patrolling handicap parking near the school the first month or two of school to educate and enforce proper use of those spaces after a student was identified as likely to need a wheelchair. Council and sheriff said they would coordinate on timing and messaging so the community is aware before strict enforcement begins.

The council did not take immediate formal action to install signs at the meeting but directed staff to begin neighbor outreach and prepare for advertisement of any proposed stop-sign locations, and accepted the sheriff’s offer to assist with public education and enforcement planning.