Traffic cameras promote safety

To the editor:

There still is much ado about the traffic cameras on Interstate 380 and other parts of Cedar Rapids.

The main arguments against these tools are: the cameras exist for the sole purpose of raising money; that there is no available recourse if one is mistakenly fined; civil liberties are being violated; and a private company financially benefits from the violations.

' Fines for any violation fund our city's budget, much like fines for overdue library books. Whether such comes from cameras or officers will contribute to our monetary needs. The cameras allow policemen to patrol and respond to more serious crimes rather than sit on the side of the road to catch speeders, et al.

' Automated Traffic Enforcement Ordinance 61.138 (e) clearly states how to contest a citation.

' This is a canard, since one does not have the right to break traffic laws; one can petition a redress; and when driving, one is functioning in public, not in private.

' This is a matter of logistics. It would be ideal if a local company could provide the same services in tandem with, in lieu of, or funded by our city. Until then, the issues remain rooted in safety and efficiency.

More information is available on the City of Cedar Rapids website.

Matthew Burrier

Cedar Rapids