Local politicians in Waterloo region and Guelph are expressing uncertainty regarding the support and funding that will be provided to their municipalities after the recent provincial directive to dismantle speed cameras.
The Ontario government enacted legislation on Thursday to prohibit speed cameras throughout the province, mandating their removal by November 14. Premier Doug Ford asserted that speed cameras are ineffective in reducing driver speeds, despite evidence from municipalities and a study by the Hospital for Sick Children suggesting otherwise. Ford advocated for alternative measures like speed humps, roundabouts, and flashing signs as more impactful solutions.
Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe criticized the province’s decision as disappointing, emphasizing the efficacy of speed cameras in managing driver speeds within the community. She raised concerns about the lack of clear information on the funding promised to municipalities for implementing other speed control measures.
With 28 municipal speed cameras currently in place in school zones across the region, Waterloo is evaluating the repercussions of the new legislation. Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, who supported the ban, affirmed the city’s commitment to its Vision Zero road safety program while awaiting further details on accessing funding for traffic calming initiatives.
Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett decried the removal of speed cameras as a setback for community safety, highlighting the financial burden on taxpayers and the potential diversion of resources from crucial tasks. She urged the province to reconsider its decision and collaborate with municipalities to find a middle ground.
Regional Coun. Colleen James expressed concerns about the financial impact on municipalities and potential job losses resulting from the ban. Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie revealed on social media the increased city budget due to the necessity of funding road safety measures previously covered by speeding fines. He highlighted the lack of clarity from the province on the promised funding for replacing the cameras in school zones.
The decision to remove speed cameras has sparked discussions about democracy and decision-making processes affecting municipalities in Ontario, with advocates emphasizing the positive impact of the program on driver behavior. Municipal leaders are awaiting further guidance and support from the province to navigate the transition away from speed cameras.