WELLINGTON COUNTY – Automated Speed Enforcement cameras have been up and running in Wellington County for about three months now, but one thing was still to be determined. Where should revenue go?
Several councillors weighed in on the topic at a council meeting Thursday, many vouching council proceed in the best interest of public safety.
Councillor Gregg Davidson proposed an amended policy to govern how the county is able to distribute dollars generated by the cameras.
Davidson told council a roundabout soon to come to the county is an example of how the policy would allow the money to be spent inside, and out of the ASE zones.
Council members shared opposing opinions.
Councillor Andy Lennox shared the thought that council should have safety pinned as the upmost priority, vouching ASE zones shouldn’t be the only ones available to receive these funds.
Presenting to council, councillor Earl Campbell explained the policy before them was not restricting, and would allow council to have more options at their disposal.
Clearing with an 11-5 vote, Davidson’s amended policy was given the green-light.
The County, per the approved policy, will use the road master action plan among others to improve road safety measures and manage speeds County-wide.
ASE revenue can now be put towards the studies, as well as capital projects not excluding the likes of roundabouts, guard rails and more.
This decision came to the delight of councillor Matthew Bulmer, who pointed out there are areas outside of ASE zones in desperate need of infrastructure.
Only councillors Watters, O’Neil, Lloyd, Ballantyne and Seeley voted against the policy.
