Barrie city councillors have decided to phase out the automated speed enforcement program, aligning with an impending provincial ban announced by Ontario’s government on Thursday. The province announced it intends to introduce legislation next month to prohibit municipal speed cameras across the province, citing concerns over their use as revenue generators rather than safety tools. Earlier this month, Premier Doug Ford called the speed camera program that has become a popular way to curb bad driving behaviours in several Simcoe County municipalities a “tax grab,” and said at that time the province would step in with alternative options. Barrie Deputy Mayor Robert Thompson brought forward a motion Wednesday for the city to phase out speed cameras by December 31, unless otherwise directed by the province. “We’ve seen what has transpired within the media and stuff in regards to the direction the province is taking,” Thompson said. “I just think we need to position the city if there’s funding, as communicated by the premier, that he would help supply funding for roundabouts, speed bumps, lights, and different measures.” Barrie City Councillor Bryn Hamilton expressed mixed feelings about scrapping speed cameras, noting their effectiveness in slowing drivers. “The cameras themselves aren’t problematic. It’s how this program is being rolled out across the province and the lack of transparency,” Hamilton said. A recent survey by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) indicated speed cameras are effective in changing driving behaviours. CAA revealed 73 per cent of drivers in Ontario reduce their speed when approaching an ASE camera, and over half said they don’t speed up again after passing one. Barrie’s motion also pushes for implementing a red light camera program and exploring other safety initiatives, with funding from existing reserves. In Thursday’s announcement, Ford stated, “At a time when governments at all levels should be doing everything they can to lower costs and make life more affordable, too many municipalities are using speed cameras as a cash grab. Enough is enough. “Instead of making life more expensive by sending speeding tickets to drivers weeks after the fact, we’re supporting road-safety measures that will prevent speeding in the first place, keep costs down and keep our streets safe.” Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria emphasized the government’s focus on “measures that truly protect the safety of all Ontarians”. If passed, the legislation would immediately ban municipal speed cameras. The province would fund traffic calming initiatives and public education, and introduce requirements for new signage in school zones.
