City Council Approves Cameras At Red Lights

NBC4i
Oct. 18, 2005

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The Columbus City Council voted Monday to approve cameras at intersections and $95 tickets for those who run red lights.

Whenever drivers pass through red lights, Columbus police want cameras to snap pictures.

"It will be one tool that we use to enhance our traffic safety program in the city of Columbus as we expand, and the citizens expect us to do more with less," said Lt. Jeff Blackwell, of the Columbus Police Traffic Bureau.

Police have been researching the cameras as a safety initiative for three years. After nine public hearings and much discussion, the City Council voted 6-1 to pass an ordinance to use the cameras.

Already, 17 possible intersections have been identified as areas that might get the cameras.

City officials said the intersection at Hudson and Interstate 71 is known for red light violations and crashes. Over time, officials hope a camera there could reduce red light violations and save lives.

But, some feel there is more than meets the eye.

"There are going to be cameras watching us at all times, and this is the first step down a slippery slope," said Phil Harmon, who opposes the cameras.

However, Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman said this is not the case.

"It's not the Big Brother. Those are the folks who see conspiracy around every corner. Here, this is about saving lives," Coleman said.

While the City Council agreed, they cautiously added several amendments, such as only using the cameras for red light enforcement and mandating the reviews of the cameras after six months in use.

City officials said it is important for people to know this program is not costing taxpayers. A company is paying to install the cameras and will share in the revenue the tickets generate, NBC 4 reported.

Police said an officer will review every ticket and that drivers do have the right to appeal, especially if they were not driving the car.

While the city approved the use of the cameras, a transportation committee will meet Tuesday at the State House to decide whether to allow red light cameras to work without an officer being present to see violators pass through red lights.

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