Council sets public hearing on automated traffic-safety cameras, approves school-bus camera ordinance and introduces vape retail licensing

The council moved to introduce a set of ordinance changes governing automated traffic enforcement devices and scheduled a public hearing for June 2. The draft language was expanded beyond red-light cameras to cover other safety cameras; the council clarified that speed cameras would require prior approval by the Police Commission before local implementation.

Separately, council members voted to adopt additions to Chapter 14 addressing school bus violation enforcement using cameras. Sponsors said the system would capture vehicles that pass buses when stop arms are deployed; fines and enforcement mechanisms were discussed with reference to state statute.

Council also introduced amendments to Chapter 13 concerning vape products and retailers. The draft would create a yearly licensing regime (the committee discussed a potential $750 annual fee), permit surprise inspections by the Bristol-Burlington Health District, require visible age-restriction signage, set distance restrictions between vape shops and schools or religious institutions, and provide for suspension, revocation and an appeal process for licensees. The zoning commission will receive referrals on location/distance aspects.

Council voted to waive readings where permitted by charter and scheduled the ordinance public hearing; sponsors said licensing language was meant to align with state statute and to give the city enforcement tools where illegal products were being sold.