Grey County Council Urges Doug Ford to Halt Speed Camera Ban

UPDATE: Grey County Council has just passed a resolution urging Ontario Premier Doug Ford to retract his controversial plan to ban automated speed enforcement cameras in municipalities. This urgent call to action occurred during a council meeting on October 9, 2023, where local leaders expressed strong opposition to the proposed legislation.

At the meeting, Owen Sound Deputy Mayor Scott Greig introduced the resolution, which demands that the province allow municipalities to decide independently on the use of speed cameras. Greig emphasized that local decisions should guide traffic safety measures, stating, “I am quite bothered by what the Premier has initiated here. It’s a municipal decision.”

Ford’s administration announced plans for this ban in late September, igniting significant backlash from local officials who argue that automated enforcement is crucial for enhancing community safety. Greig’s resolution calls on local MPPs, Paul Vickers and Brian Saunderson, to support Grey County’s stance against what they see as an overreach by the provincial government.

The resolution received unanimous support from Grey County councillors, despite no municipalities currently utilizing speed cameras. Grey Highlands Deputy Mayor Dane Nielsen condemned Ford’s characterization of speed cameras as a “cash grab,” highlighting that the primary goal is to alter the culture of speeding in Ontario.

Meanwhile, Grey Highlands Mayor Paul McQueen raised concerns shared by residents at a recent fall fair, including issues of fairness in ticketing practices. He recounted hearing about instances where drivers received hefty fines for being just 2 km/hr over the limit, even in urgent situations like visiting a dying relative. “I think there needs to be a rework on some of this stuff to get more public support,” McQueen stated.

Southgate Mayor Brian Milne added that regardless of the enforcement method, the reality is that speeding is against the law. He suggested that if Premier Ford is intent on dictating municipal operations, he might consider running for a municipal seat in the 2026 elections.

The council’s decisive move reflects a growing sentiment among local leaders who believe that speed cameras are essential tools for ensuring road safety. As the situation develops, community members are urged to stay informed on this pressing issue that directly affects local governance and public safety.

As of now, Grey County urges the province to reconsider its approach and allow municipalities to implement measures that best serve their communities. The future of automated speed enforcement in Ontario hangs in the balance as discussions continue.