Red Light Camera Contract Renewal Shelved Until Feb. 29

The Board of Aldermen will wait to hear back from before making a decision on whether to renew a contract that would keep red light cameras in the city for the next two years.

The board was to decide on a two-year contract extension with Redflex Traffic Systems, Inc.—a Scottsdale, AZ-based company. The city has been working with Redflex since February 2007. 

The goal of each camera—the city has three of them—is to reduce the number of traffic accidents at busy intersections by slapping those that run red lights with a $100 fine. Of that fine, Redflex receives $48.50 while the city gets the balance.

Opponents of the cameras say they do little in the way of safety—some even call them more dangerous—and are just another revenue stream for the city.

When board members questioned the reason for the lights, Jerry Hillin, the city's purchasing administrator, blurted out, "Revenue." Wentzville Mayor Paul Lambi said while the city does make money off the program, it would likely make more money if it ticketed drivers on its own.

In 2011, the city collected more than $121,000 in red light tickets, half of which went to Redflex.

The city projects netting more than $64,000 from the program in 2012 if the extension is approved.

Harrison will likely make a recommendation to the board during its impromptu Feb. 29 meeting. The date was originally set to be a work session meeting. However, the red light camera contract requires timely action by the board. 

The board will also officially introduce the city's controversial new animal control policy, which will repeal its current pit bull restrictions law; and address a clerical error in the city's application to participate in the Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday. 

The Feb. 29 meeting, unlike other regularly scheduled meetings, will begin at 6 p.m. and not the usual 6:30 p.m.