County introduces bill to authorize speed cameras, schedules public hearing

The Allegany County Board of County Commissioners voted to introduce code home rule bill 2-26 to authorize installation of speed monitoring systems consistent with state transportation code §21809 and scheduled a public hearing for Thursday, April 23.

County attorney Attorney Beeman described the measure as enabling legislation that would authorize the sheriff to determine camera locations and would establish a county definition of school zones (a half-mile radius around school property or where school-related activity occurs) for the purposes of camera eligibility. "This bill would enable the use of speed monitoring systems in Allegany County, consistent with the state transportation code," the attorney said.

During discussion a commissioner confirmed the sheriff was supportive. At the public-comment period, commenter Kitpepper Lehi Colette said she agreed the sheriff should consider safety and effectiveness but raised concerns that residents have no clear avenue for input if they disagree with where cameras are placed. "If I have a camera in my neighborhood and I think it's creating an issue, it's hard to go to the sheriff," she said, and asked the board to consider incorporating either board or board-of-education approval into the siting process.

Commissioners voted to introduce the bill and to schedule a public hearing; the hearing will allow residents to weigh in on details including where cameras might be placed and how school zones will be designated.