Washougal City Council to Consider a Resolution Banning Red-Light Cameras in City Limits

By: Jon Russell, Mayor Pro Tem, Washougal City Council

This resolution will be brought forward by Councilman Michael Delavar:

Michael states:

“With this resolution, the City of Washougal is sending the message that we reject the propagation of cameras everywhere. The Police Officers of the City of Washougal do a fine job keeping law and order on the streets of our city. The last thing we need is animosity between the citizens and law enforcement that would be brought about with photo enforcement cameras. With this resolution, we are saying ‘No’ to big brother.”

Imagine receiving a fine in your mailbox for running a red light on the corner of Washougal River Road & E St. This ticket was not written by a police officer, but rather a camera/computer with no understanding of traffic patterns and driving scenarios.

In the 2011 budget, the City of Washougal is proposing to hire a full-time traffic officer to enforce the laws of the road. This move would be very beneficial to our city and further makes the case for passing a ban on red light cameras.

Since this is a resolution and not an ordinance, it can be formally repealed by any future council if they deem camera enforcement necessary.

I encourage all interested people to attend our next Council meeting on Monday the 18th of October at City Hall located at 1701 C St in Washougal at 7pm. Speak in favor or against, but please speak up..

Mr. Delavar’s resolution will most likely be brought forward during Council Comments.