Prince Edward County Council Exploring Use of Automated Speed Cameras

Prince Edward County council is taking a closer look at the potential use of automated speed enforcement cameras in designated community safety zones.

During Thursday’s committee of the whole meeting, councillor Sam Grosso brought forward a motion requesting additional information on what would be required to launch an Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) program. The proposal received support, directing staff to prepare a detailed report for council by the end of the year.

The ASE system uses speed cameras to capture images of vehicles travelling above the posted speed limit, with tickets issued automatically. Grosso pointed to 2023 provincial data, noting that in Hastings and Prince Edward counties, approximately 15 per cent of drivers were recorded exceeding speed limits.

The use of speed cameras has been permitted in Ontario since 2017, when the province approved ASE programs to help curb speeding in school zones and community safety areas.

Several neighbouring municipalities are already moving forward. Belleville council recently approved $327,000 for a program involving four cameras rotating through 10 locations, starting in July, with the expectation that ticket revenue will offset costs. Brighton is also reviewing similar options.

Officials noted that the speed threshold that triggers a ticket is not publicly disclosed, which aligns with standard provincial practices. Tickets are mailed directly to the vehicle owner, regardless of who was driving at the time, and no demerit points are issued.

The motion will move forward for final approval at council’s January 30 meeting.