HomeMy WebLinkAbout231024 Council Discussion on Agenda Item 7 (2) 7. PHOTO TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM UPDATE
Lieutenant Erickson, Sergeant Doughty, Senior Court Clerk Fenton&Finance Director Kang were
present to give the staff report and slide presentation. They described the history of the photo traffic
enforcement program in Tigard and current operations using radar for red light and intersection
speed.The program enhances community safety and accessibility, aligning with Council Goals,
Strategic Vision and Transportation Safety.
Maps were shown of the three intersections currently using photo enforcement, SW Pacific Highway
and Hall Boulevard, SW Pacific Highway and 72'Avenue, and SW Pacific Highway and Durham
Road.The revenue funds two positions within the Police Department Operations: Traffic Safety
Sergeant and an Evening Traffic Safety Officer.
Speed violations average 150-160 per day. A slide was shown of the violation packet and instructions
sent to the drivers.
Robust photo enforcement communication included a billboard, social media, community events,
advertisements,radio and television news and kiosks at various locations.
National statistics show decreases in crash types of 54%in all crash types and 48% of injury crashes.
Data-driven statistics will be used for future planning. A slide was shown of crash site statistics
reported by ODOT. The Safe Streets for All (SS4A) program will help determine how,when and
where Photo Enforcement Systems can be used to address safety issues,in coordination with the
Transportation Safety Plan.
Senior Court Clerk Fenton said their caseload has gone from 2,000 cases per year to slightly over
20,000 cases. A half-day of trials was added weekly, doubling the time court is in session to help
ensure that speedy trial deadlines are met.
Finance Director Kang said the Photo Enforcement Program does not have a positive fund balance,
and unaudited numbers show a balance for FY 2023 of(-$195,042). He said it is taking longer than
expected to become self-sustaining. The program was designed to promote public safety and not just
to raise revenue.
Councilor Singh noted that surveillance technology is controversial. Lt. Erickson said Tigard Police
do not use facial or fleet recognition and are only collecting the license plate of the vehicle.
Councilor Shaw noted that the test shot lights are very bright which can be jarring. Lieutenant
Erickson said they have heard comments about brightness, but they need to be able to see the driver
inside the vehicle. He said that just seeing a flash does not mean it was for your vehicle. There are
five photos taken for each violation.
Council President Hu commented that even sections of road where there is no red light camera have
improved and he recommends continuing the program. He expressed concerns about customer
service with the current vendor. Councilor Shaw suggested highlighting customer service to all
vendors and build it into contracts.
8. NON-AGENDA ITEMS—None.
Tigard City Council Business Meeting Minutes Page 9 October 24,2023