Middletown commission votes to forward automated traffic enforcement ordinance to common council

The Middletown Police Department Public Safety Commission on Dec. 15 voted to forward a revised ordinance governing automated traffic enforcement to the common council after a presentation by Chief Costa.

Chief Costa said automated camera enforcement on Westfield Street and Country Club Road is currently in a warning period through Dec. 22. "The warning period will go to December 22," he said, adding that Connecticut DOT has recommended an 18-month study to capture seasonal and workflow variation before drawing final conclusions about the cameras' operation.

Chief Costa introduced ordinance language that his attorneys and general counsel had redlined to align hearing procedures with state statute; he asked the commission to vote to move the ordinance to the council for final consideration. The commission made a motion, seconded, and by voice vote the motion was approved. The Chair announced the measure "passes." Recorded voices of approval included Councilman Mangiavego and the Chair.

Why it matters: The ordinance would change hearing procedures for contesting automated-ticket violations and sets the process for the cameras' enforcement after the warning period ends. Chief Costa said the changes aim to make hearings more transparent and evidence-based.

Next steps: The commission forwarded the ordinance to the common council; council consideration and any final adoption will occur at a future council meeting. Chief Costa said counsel review has been completed and staff will coordinate the ordinance's placement on the council agenda.