Legislators clash on speed-zone camera signage

Democratic and Republican legislators can't agree on how to pay for flashing lights and better signage for Nassau County's speed-zone cameras. Last night, Democratic Legislator Judy Jacobs attended

News 12 Staff

•

Nov 1, 2014, 1:52 AM

•

Updated 3,555 days ago

Share:

Democratic and Republican legislators can't agree on how to pay for flashing lights and better signage for Nassau County's speed-zone cameras.

Last night, Democratic Legislator Judy Jacobs attended a meeting in Jericho where 400 people protested the school speed-zone cameras because of what they called inadequate signs and a lack of warning lights. Jacobs argues money from the tickets should pay for the lights and signs.

Republican Majority Leader Norma Gonsalves issued a statement saying, "Democrat legislators have refused to support the bonding ... therefore, the 11 majority members have requested that lights be installed in their districts using Community Revitalization Program funding."

Community Revitalization Program funds are normally used for projects that benefit a lawmaker's district. The funds are repaid with interest by county taxpayers.

Several calls were made to County Executive Ed Mangano's office to ask if he supports taking the cameras down until flashing lights and better signage could be installed. Judge John Marks, who oversees the School Speed Zone Program, replied that "the current signage meets the state requirements for the program."

It is not clear how much the extra lights and signs will cost, but estimates range from $1 million to $2 million. According to Newsday, the county expects the cameras to generate up to $30 million in annual revenue.