While Traffic/Speed Cameras Get More Legislative Debate, Grace Period for Warnings Ending Soon in Charles City

While debate continues in the Iowa legislature over regulations for automated traffic/speed cameras, the grace period for motorists receiving warning tickets in Charles City is coming to a close.

The City activated four speed cameras in City limits on March 11th. Police Chief Hugh Anderson indicated there would be a “break in” period of about 30 days in which violators would only be issued warnings. 

Wednesday (04.1o) marked the initial 30 days of operation, but the City was still attempting (as of Thursday morning) to receive official word from the system administrator as to when actual speeding tickets will be issued. 

Earlier in the week, the Iowa House voted to establish more state rules for the cameras. Republican Representative Phil Thompson of Boone said tickets could only be issued if a vehicle is caught going at least 10 miles an hour over the posted speed limit, such as it is in Charles City.

Representative Brian Best, a Republican from Glidden, said it’s clear there’s no perfect answer.

Republican Representative John Wills of Spirit Lake would like to see a ban on all traffic cameras.

If the bill becomes law, cities that want to have traffic cameras would have to get a permit from the Iowa DOT. Cities with fewer than 20-thousand residents could not have mobile cameras that change locations. 

The bill passed on an 85 to 12 vote to move to the Senate. 

*Radio Iowa information contributed to this story