Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is advocating for modifications to the city’s automated speed camera program. This comes as Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans to ban the cameras when the legislature reconvenes in October. Chow addressed reporters at city hall on Thursday, expressing her disapproval of the proposed ban. "Banning one of the most effective tools we have to slow drivers down and keep people safe is a wrong decision," she said. Chow believes the ban sends a message that the provincial government is tolerant of speeding.

In response to Ford's announcement, Chow is introducing recommendations at the infrastructure and environment committee meeting on Friday. One of her proposals includes a grace period for drivers who receive speeding tickets. This would allow a driver to avoid being ticketed again for seven days after their first offense, giving them time to learn about the camera's location. Chow's office confirmed that they hope these changes will persuade Ford to reconsider the ban.

Ford has argued that speed cameras are "cash grabs," claiming that drivers can be ticketed multiple times by the same camera without being aware of its presence. Chow acknowledged this concern in a letter to reporters, stating, "That has merit." However, city staff previously warned that implementing a grace period could compromise the program's integrity and pose safety risks. They noted that such a period might be seen as a loophole for repeat offenders.

Chow has consulted with Newmarket Mayor John Taylor about the software used for speed cameras and how a grace period could be effectively implemented. Taylor shared that when Newmarket's cameras were first activated, the software was designed to prevent multiple tickets within a week. "That way they have a chance to get the ticket in the mail, learn from the ticket and adjust their behavior," he explained.

Chow's approach has drawn criticism from some city council members. Councillor Josh Matlow expressed concern that allowing a grace period could lead to dangerous driving behavior. "I don’t want some of the worst offenders believing that they have several days to do whatever they want on our streets," he said. Councillor Gord Perks added that Chow is dealing with a "not rational" opponent in Premier Ford.

Chow also disputed Ford's claim that drivers are being ticketed for only minor speed violations. "There’s no evidence of what (Ford) just said," she stated, urging him to provide proof. However, she did not clarify whether there is a specific threshold for issuing tickets. "Don’t speed, you won’t get a ticket. So why does the threshold matter?" Chow remarked.

In light of the province's decision, Chow plans to introduce motions to City Council that include larger signage for speed cameras and informing local communities about the potential removal of the cameras. Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward also voiced her opposition to the ban, emphasizing the life-saving benefits of speed cameras. She noted that evidence from municipalities shows a significant reduction in speeding, particularly in school zones.

Chow highlighted that revenue from the speed cameras supports road safety initiatives, including funding for police officers and victim services. "Instead of using money from speeders, breaking the law, the province wants law-abiding citizens to pay for road safety," she said. "I do not believe that is fair." The outcome of Chow's proposals and the future of the speed camera program will depend on the actions of the provincial government in the coming weeks.