Ask the Mayor

Q. - Why was the issue of red light cameras not presented to the citizens? Shouldn't we have an opportunity to vote on whether they should be used, since, after all, they are installed and maintained with taxpayer money?

 

Answer - Thanks for giving me the opportunity to discuss the decision to place red light camera enforcement.

Long ago the Council began to consider the installation of red light cameras. We heard many complaints about people recklessly running red lights and Council members were following the successful programs in the metroplex that were reducing the accident rate. After much consideration, the Council passed the ordinance to install the cameras on February 6, 2007.

The issue was not put to a vote by the citizens. In our representative form of government the representatives (City Councilmen, State Legislators, Congressmen, etc.) routinely pass ordinances and laws. Issues are rarely put to a public vote. As far as the City's business goes, it would be almost impossible for our City to operate if we had to hold an election to consider every City action.

We operate under the Texas Open Meetings Act. With very few exceptions, all meetings of the City Council are open for the public to observe. Notices of our meetings and the agendas are posted at City Hall and on the City web site at least 72 hours before a meeting. The Council normally meets at City Hall on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m.. It would be great if you would come and observe one of our meetings.

Finally, the installation of the cameras and the program of operating the cameras will cost the City taxpayers nothing since this service is provided by a contractor, who is paid out of the revenue generated.

In some cities, red light cameras have been so effective that they are being removed or relocated to other dangerous intersections. Hopefully, this will be the case in Terrell, once drivers get out of the habit of running red lights.

Sincerely,

Hal Richards
Mayor

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