Branstad critical of red-light, speed cameras

Jan. 12, 2012 6:20 pm

SIOUX CITY -- Gov. Terry Branstad during an appearance in Sioux City Thursday criticized red-light and speed cameras.

"I have no problem with fining people who break the law. I just think a lot of people have problems with not being able to see their accuser," he said.

The comments came during a Sioux City Rotary Club meeting at the Sioux City Convention Center. Branstad used the event to discuss education reform and other initiatives.

Cedar Rapids has red light cameras and the Iowa City Council decided earlier this month in the first of three required votes to install them in Iowa City.

Sioux City has several red-light and speed cameras. Some have criticized the devices as being unfair to motorists.

A red light camera on First Avenue East, facing northbound traffic at the intersection with 10th Street SE. Similar cameras could be installed at Iowa City intersections, if approved by the Iowa City Council. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)