Ad Hoc committee recommends ordinance to allow automated speed and red‑light cameras in Danbury

The Ad Hoc Report committee voted unanimously July 14 to recommend that the City Council approve a proposed ordinance authorizing automated traffic enforcement safety devices, including speed and red‑light cameras, with an amendment to Section 46‑44(C) on retention of personally identifiable information.

The measure seeks to bring local ordinance language into conformity with state statute and to authorize placement of camera systems at approved locations. Kaitlin Gruse, Assistant Corporation Counsel, told the committee the draft mirrors statutory requirements for language, municipal approvals, plans and reports, and confirmed that once a site is approved it remains valid for three years unless reauthorized.

Taylor O'Brien, Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office, described the city’s experience with bus safety cameras and said automated systems can issue citations in locations where patrol officers cannot be present simultaneously. O'Brien said the administration reviewed five contractors and found no upfront fees among them and that revenue shares returning to the city were similar across vendors. Contracts, O'Brien said, will go through the Board of Awards.

Committee members pressed for public input and clear safeguards. Member Cheryl Wallace‑Smith asked whether citation revenue could be directed to specific needs; O'Brien and Deputy Corporation Counsel Robin Edwards said state statute and the proposed ordinance require that funds be used for infrastructure and traffic safety projects in the Traffic Engineering budget. O'Brien said signage is required and that a 30‑day public awareness period would precede enforcement; the planning and enactment process will include at least four opportunities for public hearings and CT DOT must review and approve proposed zones and plans.

Member Candace Fay raised questions about vendor fee structures and privacy. Edwards said one vendor requires a per‑capture fee to confirm an infraction before issuing a citation. Fay also pressed on what would happen with stolen or unregistered plates; Peter Buzaid, an ex‑officio member, and Deputy Police Chief Michael Sturdevant said the program is limited to speed and red‑light violations, that vendors and police verify that plates match registered vehicles, and that stolen plates would be reported to police.

A legal point drew discussion. Paul Rotello noted Sec. 46‑40 language referring to “a motor vehicle committing the infraction” and asked whether fines should target the driver rather than the vehicle. Buzaid and Chair Frank Salvatore said fining the vehicle is customary in similar programs and can reduce disputes about identifying the driver.

A motion by Member Cheryl Wallace‑Smith, seconded by Member Candace Fay, recommended that the full City Council approve the proposed ordinance authorizing automated traffic enforcement safety devices with the amendment to Section 46‑44(C) regarding retention of personally identifiable information. The motion carried unanimously. Member Fay said she hopes to receive additional information as the ordinance moves forward.

The committee adjourned at 7:25 p.m. The Council will receive the committee’s recommendation and the ordinance will proceed through the city’s standard review and approval process; CT DOT review and additional public hearings remain part of the next steps.