City staff previews photo-radar pilot; council expresses public concern

City staff gave an informational briefing on a potential photo-radar (automated enforcement) program and emphasized the presentation was exploratory, not a decision. The presenter said municipalities had varied experiences and that public reaction and legal compliance are significant factors: "If there's not the majority of you that are interested in this, again, I'm already seeing it shakes, then we can give you back a few minutes of your time," the presenter said, noting a possible implementation window of Aug. 27 into the spring of 2028 for a full school-year pilot.

Staff said costs were not yet determined and that an RFP would be required to select a vendor. Councilors and other speakers raised concerns about public acceptance and past instances where municipalities had to issue refunds for tickets when programs did not comply with state rules. An exchange noted municipalities that used automated enforcement successfully still faced media and community pushback over perceived 'speed traps' and placement of devices. Staff recommended additional public education and a careful procurement process before any pilot or contract was pursued.