Ruston council hears automated traffic camera rollout; cameras could go live mid-to-late July

Ruston Police Chief Nestor Bautista updated the City Council on the automated traffic camera program, saying engineering and planning for camera locations are underway and Locke Systems has completed an on-site assessment. "Installation could be completed within one to two weeks after permit approval," Bautista said, and staff expect the cameras to go live between mid- and late July, subject to a required 30-day warning period and selection of a hearing examiner and court clerk.

Councilmembers discussed staffing implications and budgeting for the program. Bautista noted the City has extended an offer to a candidate who would attend the police academy using personal leave to help fill patrol coverage gaps created by recent separations. Councilmember Jennifer Jensen thanked Bautista for advancing the camera project and noted its potential budgetary importance, while Councilmember John Holland asked whether staffing challenges were budget-related; Bautista said they were not.

The Council was also told that additional local ordinances—such as a park-hours ordinance—may be needed to support enforcement tied to automated cameras. City staff will proceed with permit steps, the required public notice period, and recruitment for related hearing and clerical roles prior to activation of enforcement.