The earliest possible date that Guelph could see red light cameras would be 2022.
At its committee of the whole meeting Monday, council rejected a motion from staff to not move forward with red light cameras, directing staff to bring them forward as part of the 2020 budget deliberations.
A final decision on the staff recommendation happens at the Jan. 28 meeting of full council.
After approval, it takes two years to get them up and running due to procurement and various legislative requirements.
Eight municipalities in Ontario currently use red light cameras.
There was lots of discussion about the need for additional statistical information on red light cameras and their effect on accidents other than t-bone or rear-end collisions.
Statistically they reduce more serious t-bone collisions, but increase rear-end collisions, said the staff report.
But more information was requested on turning accidents, the fact rear-end collisions decline over time as people become more aware of the cameras and the fact that some municipalities have experienced a far greater reduction in serious collisions.
“I think it’s fair to say we may not have all the data,” said coun. Cathy Downer, who has spearheaded the drive for further investigation into getting red light cameras in Guelph.
It would cost $10,000 per intersection to set up red light cameras and approximately $213,000 annually to operate a minimum of four cameras. Ticket revenue would offset those costs.
A ticket for running a red light is currently $325, of which the municipality receives $265.
At a lengthy discussion on the topic at Monday’s committee of the whole meeting, council also supported a staff recommendation to move forward with a Community Road Safety Program to help reduce traffic infractions.
That would include a staff recommendation for a dedicated new staff member in the upcoming 2019 budget deliberations.
