Collier County Nixes Red Light Cameras

As the Florida Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments on theconstitutionalityof red light camera citations issued before July 2010, Collier County has decided to nix the devices altogether, replacing them with longer yellow light times:

"Commissioners in Collier County, Florida, voted 3-2 on Wednesday to pull the plug on red light cameras. The devices have stirred controversy and class action lawsuits since ticketing began at 10 county intersections on April 30, 2009. Though opinion on the board of commissioners was divided on the wisdom of continuing the program, city officials were unanimous in demanding an increase in the duration of the yellow lights at intersections.

"'We basically need to look at alternatives to red light cameras to improve safety for the benefit of the public,' board chairman Georgia A. Hiller said. 'There is no evidence that supports the need to keep these red light cameras.'

"Commissioner Donna Fiala strongly supported the use of automated ticketing machines because, she insisted, they caused an improvement in safety throughout the city. She also endorsed the alternatives.

"'I agree with you about the retiming of the lights,' Fiala said. 'I think it's a good idea. If they're timed properly maybe people won't be running red lights.'"

{Source: "Florida County Chooses Longer Yellow Over Red Light Cameras"}