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Council hears costs, contract hurdles if state expands speed-camera rules
Summary
Legal staff told council that new General Assembly language would require more signage, annual reporting and vendor contract changes; public-works staff estimated flashing speed-display signs at roughly $17,500 each across 13 school zones.
Trish Malicek, legal counsel, briefed council on pending legislation that would expand photo-enforcement authority to school crossings, work zones and certain high-risk corridors while narrowing how civil-penalty proceeds may be used.
"The new legislation is restricting the manner in which we can use those funds," Malicek said, explaining that after operating costs the remaining funds must be used for planning, design and construction of traffic, bike and pedestrian infrastructure eligible under safety programs and that annual reporting to the state police will be required.
Jason Mitchell, who tracks fiscal impacts for public works, told council that required radar/lidar speed-display signs cost about $17,500 each and that there are 13 current school zones with cameras, creating an estimated signage cost of roughly $227,500. He also noted potential contract amendments: the bill limits vendor compensation to 5% (removing a $55 minimum), and it specifies calibration, daily device testing and retention of proof-of-calibration for summonsed events.
Council members asked whether violations would be issued when schools are closed; Mitchell said officers review citations and holiday or non-school events are screened out during officer review. The council did not vote on a policy change; staff said they expect to return with any necessary contract amendments and cost details if the bill is enacted.
