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Ulster County approves Bus Patrol America contract after public concerns raised about similar programs
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Summary
The Ulster County Legislature voted 23–0 on April 21 to approve a contract with Bus Patrol America LLC for school bus camera enforcement despite public testimony citing problems with similar programs elsewhere; several legislators urged careful oversight and monitoring.
The Ulster County Legislature approved Resolution 180 on April 21, authorizing a contract with Bus Patrol America LLC for the Department of Emergency Services; the resolution passed unanimously, 23–0.
Before the vote, a public commenter, Alex Pantia, who said he was from Dutchess County, urged the legislature to reject or at least pull related resolutions from consent, arguing that bus‑camera ticketing programs have created due‑process problems and long delays in other counties. "This program is, to put it lightly, a complete and total disaster in Dutchess County," Pantia said during public comment, alleging unconstitutional practices and lengthy waits for hearings.
Legislator Nolan acknowledged the commenter’s concerns but said those experiences do not necessarily predict Ulster County’s outcome and said careful monitoring and design could make the program an important safety tool. Legislator Kovacs noted recent investigative reporting (Bloomberg Businessweek) and pending lawsuits in other jurisdictions, saying the county should keep the program on a "tight leash." Several legislators said they supported the concept of improving bus safety while emphasizing the need for clear administrative safeguards and the ability to revise contracts if problems arise.
The resolution authorizes execution of a contract with expected payments above $50,000 for the county's emergency services department. After floor discussion and assurances about careful implementation, the legislature adopted the resolution 23–0.
