Red Light Cameras: Councilor Winter To Hold Town Hall Meeting

We just got our Eyes on a press release from Councilor Brad Winter's office. Councilor Winter has decided to hold a Town Hall Meeting Tuesday, March 6th to discuss the issue of Red Light Camera enforcement. Councilor Winter brings up the egregious fines, the extreme penalties for late payment and the problems with the appeal process. The councilor is apparently "really concerned about the appeals process," and goes on to site the recent departure of the City's hearing officer Albert Chavez, that we told you about here. He also said, "people have the right to have input on how they are policed."

We couldn't agree more... The Town Hall will be held downtown at City Hall in the City Council (Vincent E. Griego) Chambers. The full text of councilor's press release is posted below.

CITY COUNCILOR BRAD WINTER TO CONDUCT HALL MEETING TO LISTEN TO CITIZEN CONCERNS REGARDING RED LIGHT CAMERAS

City Councilor, Brad Winter (District 4) will conduct a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, March 6, 2007 to allow citizens to voice their concerns regarding the Safe Traffic Operations Program Ordinance which allows for the use of photo red light cameras and electronic speed detection equipment.

“Since the ordinance went into effect the Council has been bombarded with complaints and concerns from the citizens of Albuquerque,” said Councilor Winter, “I just want to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard regarding this matter.”

An item of great concern is the amount of the fines and the 100% increase to the fines imposed when there is a delay in making payment. Councilor Debbie O’Malley and Councilor Ken Sanchez have introduced legislation to address this issue. The process to appeal violations has also been repeatedly questioned. “We need to assure that all citizens are being granted due process,” said the Councilor, “I’m really concerned about the appeals process.” The City’s hearing officer who hears appeals of violations has resigned his position.

“People have the right to have input on how they want to be policed,” stated Councilor Winter, “I think it’s time we listened to how the public feels about the laws we are imposing on them.”

The Town Hall will be held on Tuesday, March 6, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Vincent E. Griego Chambers, City/County Government Center. Parking will be provided in the underground lot in Civic Plaza. For more information call 768-3101.