In a significant policy reversal, Manatee County, Florida, has decided to terminate its school zone speed camera program, a move that carries implications for similar initiatives across the state. As the first county in Florida to implement such a program, Manatee’s experience offers valuable insights into the challenges and controversies surrounding automated traffic enforcement.
Manatee County’s Experience with Speed Cameras
Manatee County launched its school zone speed camera program in August 2024, aiming to enhance student safety by deterring speeding near schools. The initiative involved installing speed detection cameras across approximately two dozen schools, operating during school hours and issuing $100 fines to drivers exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph.
However, the program quickly encountered public backlash. Residents reported receiving citations during times when school zone lights were inactive, leading to confusion and frustration. Within the first three weeks of enforcement in November 2024, the county issued approximately $500,000 in fines, further fueling public discontent.
In response to these concerns, county commissioners initially adjusted the enforcement hours but ultimately voted 5-2 to discontinue the program effective March 6, 2025. Commissioner Robert McCann, who advocated for ending the program, described it as ineffective and indicated plans to revisit the possibility of refunds for those fined.
Implications for Other Florida Counties
Despite Manatee County’s decision, several other Florida counties are moving forward with similar speed camera initiatives:
- Osceola County: Plans to install speed cameras at 32 high-risk locations near schools, with enforcement set to begin in early 2025.
- Miami-Dade County: Has implemented the RedSpeed Photo Enforcement System in multiple school zones, aiming to increase safety for students.
- Hillsborough County: Is launching “Operation Safe Passage,” a program deploying speed cameras in school zones to protect students and enhance road safety.
Click here for a running list of Florida counties and cities with speed camera programs.
These counties should closely examine Manatee’s experience, particularly the public’s response and the operational challenges faced. Issues such as unclear enforcement times, high volumes of fines, and perceptions of the program as a revenue-generating tool rather than a safety measure contributed to its downfall in Manatee County.
Potential Risks of Automated Enforcement
While the intent behind automated speed enforcement is to improve safety, several risks and criticisms have emerged:
- Public Perception: Programs perceived as “money grabs” can erode public trust and lead to widespread non-compliance.
- Operational Challenges: Misaligned enforcement times and improper signage can result in unjust citations, as seen in Manatee County.
- Legal Scrutiny: Automated enforcement systems may face legal challenges regarding their implementation and fairness.
As more and more people get fed up, the media has taken notice. Recently, a joint publication between Jacksonville Tributary and Miami Herald took a deep dive into the topic and discovered that over 19.5 million in fines were allocated in the first 6 months of the Miami program. Many people across the state are feeling the squeeze while these camera companies operate using shady tactics. Don’t believe us? Read this!
Conclusion
Manatee County’s decision to end its speed camera program serves as a cautionary tale for other Florida counties considering similar measures. It underscores the importance of clear communication, proper implementation, and public buy-in when deploying automated traffic enforcement systems. Counties must address potential pitfalls to ensure these programs effectively enhance safety without alienating the communities they aim to protect.
