Ford Threatens Municipalities: Remove Speed Cameras Now!

URGENT UPDATE: Ontario Premier Doug Ford has issued a stark warning to municipalities: eliminate speed cameras immediately or he will intervene. Speaking at a Toronto Region Board of Trade event on Tuesday morning, Ford condemned the devices as a “tax grab” and called for their removal across the province.

Ford’s fiery remarks come amid rising vandalism incidents involving speed cameras in Toronto, where three cameras were destroyed in just the past week. A speed camera on Parkside Drive, known for being targeted, has been cut down seven times in less than a year. Photos captured by CP24 on Tuesday show additional cameras in the east end of Toronto, including locations near Coxwell Avenue and O’Connor Drive, and on Lake Shore Boulevard.

“They should take out those cameras, all of them,” Ford stated emphatically. “This is nothing but a tax grab. I’ve driven by speed traps not even close to school areas. It’s not fair.” His comments come as public frustration grows over the perceived unfairness of speed camera enforcement, with many drivers being penalized for minor infractions.

Ford highlighted the need for alternative safety measures, advocating for flashing signs to encourage slower driving and the presence of police officers with radar guns in high-risk areas. “I’m all about public safety. I’m against taxing the death out of people,” he declared.

The Premier cited the example of Vaughan Mayor Stephen Del Duca, who recently scrapped the city’s speed camera program after significant public backlash. “Hopefully the cities will get rid of them… or I’m going to help them get rid of them very shortly,” Ford warned.

The urgency of Ford’s message resonates as municipalities face increasing pressure to act. He emphasized that if local governments fail to dismantle the cameras, he will take decisive action to do so himself. “Get rid of the speed cameras or I’m going to do it for them,” he reiterated, sending a clear signal that the provincial government is prepared to intervene.

As public safety and tax concerns collide, all eyes will be on Ontario municipalities to see how they respond to Ford’s ultimatum. Will they heed the call to eliminate speed cameras, or will the Premier follow through with his promise to take action? The situation remains fluid and is developing rapidly. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.