THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2008
Corner Camera Idea Embraced By City
By TODD WESSELL
Journal & Topics Editor
The installation of special cameras at one or two key intersections in Des Plaines looks likely, but it'll be several months before the program is actually activated.
Aldermen Monday night gave Police Chief Jim Prandini the green light to move ahead with the program that's designed to catch traffic violators and generate revenue. Specifically, an ordinance will be prepared allowing the program's implementation in Des Plaines, a vendor will be hired to provide the equipment and operate the program, a review process will be established, and one or two intersections chosen.
The red light camera system empowers cities like Des Plaines to place special cameras at intersections that will identify vehicles when they break the law. One type of infraction is driving through an intersection after the light has turned red. When that occurs, the camera is activated and a photograph taken of the vehicle's license plate. When that occurs, the vendor hired by the city to administer the program, sends information to the police department for review. A determination is made then by police whether to mail a ticket to the owner of the car. The fine is $100.
According to Prandini, approximately 20 suburbs have embraced the camera system generating tens of thousands of dollars annually. One estimate is that Naperville will raise $2 million a year once it implements its program at a few intersections.
Prandini stressed that the primary purpose of the Red Light program is to improve traffic safety. However, there's no getting around that city leaders also like the idea because of its potential revenue.
During discussion on the subject at Monday night's City Council meeting, Ald. Jean Higgason (4th) said she has received information that the camera program actually causes crashes. She said that when motorists notice signs promoting system, some brake suddenly to avoid going through a red light and activating the device. When that happens, rear-end collisions can occur.
Ald. Carla Brookman (5th) said that she, too, has received many inquiries about the program from people expressing concern.
"To some residents, this is more about revenue than public safety," said Brookman. Prandini said he has not been informed by any police officials from suburbs that have the program that crashes occur because of the cameras.
"We have a right to refuse to issue tickets," said Prandini. "If there's a close call, we can provide checks and balances." He said after citations are issued, car owners will be able to go online to see the photo that was taken. They can determine if they want to challenge the ticket in the city's Administrative Review court held once a month in City Hall.