As we wait for Transportation Minister Brian Mason to decide what to do about photo radar, there have been similar discussions taking place all across the province.
Drayton Valley got rid of photo radar, as per the people’s demand, but now finds itself short of money.
In Dayton, Ohio, there has been a legal fight over cameras used to catch drivers who run red lights. They stopped using them two years ago, and now they are back. They said they know now that they need them to keep the city safer.
While the cameras were banished, police say traffic crashes started climbing and so did the number of people who died.
So, the red light cameras and speed detectors are back, but with some restrictions.
Police will have to use fixed camera systems, handheld devices and portable trailer units to catch those speeding and running red lights, and get this, police will have to be present when the cameras are operating.
Let me say that again: Police have to be present when the cameras are operating.
Would that satisfy those in Edmonton, who call radar a cash cow?
Let me know what you think.
Bob Layton is the news manager of the Corus Edmonton group of radio stations and a commentator for Global News.