Dayhoff Soundtrack: 20071128 Carroll could get speeding cameras by Kathryn Leiter

Thursday, November 29, 2007

20071128 Carroll could get speeding cameras by Kathryn Leiter

Carroll could get speeding cameras by Kathryn Leiter

I usually like most any technology that enhances safety. And speeding is a constant citizen complaint – especially in residential neighborhoods. But I just am not comfortable the idea of being charged with a crime by a computer - - - about getting a speeding ticket from a computer – and the statistics are all over the map as to the efficacy of the red light cameras or speeding cameras - - except of course, for raising money… Any way:

Carroll could get speeding cameras

By Kathryn Leiter, Times Staff Writer

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Maryland Municipal League creating bill to add devices

Carroll County drivers may soon be facing an increase of police enforcement in residential areas, but not in the form of additional officers.

The Maryland Municipal League is drawing up a bill that would allow Maryland municipalities to use cameras to crack down on speeding in residential areas and school zones.

The bill would go before the 2008 legislative session, said MML Director of Government Relations Candace Donoho.

If passed, it would be up to each municipality to decide whether they use the new equipment, she said. If a town doesn’t have its own police department, the town would have to go to the county to work with them, she said.

“I would certainly support it, and I would love to see it,” said Chief John Williams Jr. of the Sykesville Police Department.

The Carroll County Sherriff’s office is also in favor of the added enforcement, said spokesman Lt. Phil Kasten.

“We support the various alternatives,” Kasten said. “Photo enforcement encourages motorists to be responsible.”