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Columbia schedules traffic-and-safety informational meeting amid debate over speed cameras and who may speak
Summary
The board announced a traffic-and-safety informational meeting with T2 center experts and a state traffic trooper to discuss measures including speed cameras. Members debated allowing out-of-town speakers and business owners to speak; the meeting will be informational (no vote) and will include experts and town residents.
The Columbia Board announced an informational traffic-and-safety meeting for Thursday at 7 p.m. in Yonas Hall. The board said experts from the T2 Center and a trooper from the state traffic unit will present data on speed cameras and other safety measures.
Members discussed whether to allow out-of-town individuals or business owners who say they were affected by cameras to speak. Some members said they were open to hearing data from other towns and experts but cautious about allowing subjective testimony from non-residents. The chair emphasized the session is informational and not a vote; it is intended to provide data on cameras, speed humps, and other measures so the town can make an informed decision.
"It's an informational meeting. It's not a public hearing and it's not a vote," a board member said, urging residents to bring specific questions and an open mind. The board asked staff to invite towns with operational data and to allow local residents to ask questions of the experts.
Why it matters: Speed cameras and other traffic measures can change town traffic patterns and revenue, and business owners sometimes claim revenue impacts. The informational meeting will aim to surface data, costs and safety trade-offs.
What happens next: The board will host the informational session and then determine whether further study or a policy proposal is warranted.
