HomeMy WebLinkAboutPS 2019-07-15 Item 2 - Ordinances - Automated Safety Camera Pilot (Red LIght Cameras and School Speed Zone Cameras)�
K�itK���« Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
UNFOR ATUONAL E ORANDUU
TO: Public Safety Committee
FROM: Bruce Linton, Chief mfPolice
BY: EBO| Devlin, Sergeant Traffic Division
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: 07710/2019
SUBJECT: Automated Safety Camera Pilot Project PrmsentmtUom
ISSUE
Increase public safety on the city roadways through enforcement and education using
automated red-light cameras.
BACKGROUND
The most prevalent complaint from our residents iospeeding our arterials, neighborhoods
and school zones. Our small traffic unit has a difficult time keeping up with the increased calls
for enforcement. Using automated safety cameras can increase efficiencies in the areas of
traffic enforcement, education and the overall traffic and pedestrian safety within our city.
Studies have shown that red light and speed zone cameras will make the city streets safer by
reducing red light running and school speed -zone violations. Automated safety cameras are
currently used |nKing, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, and Chelan counties. |nKing County,
there are programs in Bellevue, Des N1oinEm, Federal VVmy. Issaquah, P{ant. Lake Forrest Parh,
Mercer Island, Renton, and Seattle.
ANALYSIS
Red Light Cameras: Red light running nationally causes hundreds ofdeaths, tens of
thousands ofinjuries andbjUkonoofdo||aroinpropertydan)agm. Adriver runs ared light about
every 2Ominutes and more frequently during peak times. Studies show that automated safety
cameras have reduced red light running, which in turn reduces the potential serious injury right
angle collisions. They educate the public and that education has a spillover effect to the non -
camera intersections. They will assist with increased traffic flow and increase the safety of
police officers. The camera systems will assist with better tracking of intersection statistics such
as traffic f|ovvo, number ofvehicles, peak hours of the dayG, number of collisions, and tickets
issued in these intersections. They will provide more efficient service with no immediate
additional FTE'o. The po||me, prooecUtor, city att0rney, public works, the Tukwila municipal court
and the Tukwila school board support the program. Studies show that nationally ohigh
percentage of the public is in favor of automated red-light cameras and the TUkm||@ Police
Department has reached out at community meetings and through social media to garner
support inour area:
•Public Safety Committee
° Tukwila School Board
° Community Oriented Police Citizens Advisory Board
° Tukwila International Boulevard /\odon Committee
° Tukwila Reporter Newspaper
° Hazelnut Publication
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
Proposed Intersections: The proposed intersections for the pilot project were analyzed using
collision data, projected Vio|@tiODS.|@yOUtandDOteDtia|d8SigDdiffiCWh«fO[th8C8[Ue[GSSVGteDl
placement. The following proposed intersections are as follows: Boeing AooeSg at Martin Luther
King Jr (Southbound and Eastbound - WSDOT), Southcenter Parkway at Strander Blvd
(Northbound and Westbound), and Grady at Interurban Ave South (Eastbound and Westbound -
WSDOT). Companies such ag/\TS and E)eDgyshave worked with VVSD[>Tincoordinating
iOgt8||8tioO at intersections. The Red -Light vendors will do the iOsta||8tiDO8, which is the OOrDla|
bUSiOeSS DlOd8|. SigO@g8 is required by the f{CVVand the City will iDs{8{( and maintain them at
their expense (vendors will provide the technical assistance with the recommending placement).
The cameras have mminimal power draw and will utilize existing power. |fpower isnot
available, the vendor will bring power iOand that power will then be available for other city
users. These requirements are all part ofthe contractual agreement.
The proposed Red -Light Safety Camera intersection collision statistics 2014-2016
wBoeing Access Road at&4LKJrWay 8.
o 21 collisions
o 0fata|iti8S
o 2right-angle collisions with DOinjuries [8pOrted
o 5sideewipea
m 13rear-end collisions
o 1 collision with gfiX8d object
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
• Southcenter Parkway at Strander Blvd
O 34 collisions
O 0 fatalities
O 5 right-angle collisions with 2 injuries
O 15 sideswipes
O 9 rear -end collisions
O 5 collisions with fixed objects
3
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
• Grady and Interurban Ave S.
O 24 collisions
O 1 fatality
O 5 right-angle collisions with 5 injuries
O 9 rear -end collisions
O 10 collisions with fixed objects
4
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
The Need for School Speed Zone Cameras: |nWashington State, school zones are posted
at 20 mph, recognizing the high volume of juvenile pedestrian traffic and inherent congestion
and conflicts inthe vicinity Ofour schools, Despite mitigation efforts between Public Works and
the Police DepartOO8Dt, individual drivers continue to speed through our school zones, Cp88UOg
concerns among citizens. Asaresult of these concerns, additional measures inthe form of
automated enforcement is recommended to remind drivers of the increased presence of school -
aged children during school hours. The speed limit signs, flashing /[ad@hspeed measuring
SignG, crosswalks and other warning signs/controls Lhornae|vee have been ineffective.
School Zone Info:
° Reports show that crashes including pedestrians are eight times more likely to result in
death than those not involving pedestrians.
* That likelihood is greatly impacted by the speed at which the car is traveling.
w Someone under the age of3Oyears old only has a3Y6chance ofbeing killed bye
vehicle traveling 2Omph and that risk increases tO1396Gt3Omph.
° The risk increases rapidly from, reaching about 52% when the vehicle speed is 45 mph.
° Slower vehicle speeds mean apedestrian has ogreater chance ofsurvival ifhit, which is
the benefit ofa school speed zone.
Proposed School Speed -Zone Camera Location: The data presented below iathe basis for
the location ofthe school speed -zone camera pilot program on South 144th Street in the vicinity
OfFoster High School and Showalter Middle School. The two cameras (Westbound and
Eastbound) would be located between the 4200 and 4600 blocks of the school zone (see the
attached diagram). The police department |Dcoordination with public works, conducted an
updated study of speeds during school hours in the area of Foster High School and Showalter
Middle School. The updated speed analysis over athree-week period shows compelling data to
support the recommended automated enforcement.
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 6
All data was collected during the times when children were present considering the off -set times
ofarrival and departures between Showalter Middle School and Foster High SohOo|:
wArrival -7:3OAMhog1]UAM
* Departure -2-OOPN1-3:3OPPN
During the week ofMarch 25'2019toMarch 29.2019.vve looked atviolator speeds between
25-45mph during this time period. As a reminder, the posted speed limit is2Onnph. A
breakdown of the numbers eastbound and westbound are depicted below:
Radar Speed Measuring Device -VVithout Flashing Speed Notification
— Direction ofTravel on
S. 144th
Tra\m|Timoe-
Children Present
Total Number of
Vehicles
Violators
Speeds 25-45mph
Eastbound
7:30AK8-9:30AW1
1.387
320
Westbound
7:50AK8-8:30AK8
1.576
4//
Eastbound
2:ODPM-3:30P[N
1.025
508
Westbound
2:OOF,M-3:30PM
1.729
778
Total
8.327
2.141
Here iawhat vvesaw when vvaanalyzed driving behaviors from April 1,2019boApril SL2Q19
when we activated the flashing speed notifications on the speed measuring devices. There was
a significant reduction of violators between 25-40 mph
Radar Speed Measuring Device - With Flashing SoeedNodfoaUon/\cUVated
Direction of Travel on
8.144th
Travel Times-
Children Present
Total Number of
Vehicles
Violators
Speeds 25'4Omph
Eastbound
7:80A&1-9:30AM
1.472
341
Westbound
7:30AK8-9:30/\K8
1.417
344
Eastbound
2:OOPK8-3:30PM
1.713
500
Westbound
2:OOPM-3:30PM
1.634
580
Tota|
6.186
1.751
Here is what we saw when we analyzed driving behaviors between April 22, 2019 to April 26,
2019, several weeks after the radar speed devices were continuously notifying drivers of their
speed. The violations increased over time.
Radar Speed Measuring Device - With Flashing Speed Notification
Direction of Travel on
S.144th
Travel Times -
Children Present
Total Number of
Vehicles
Violators
Speeds 25'4Dmph
Eastbound
7:30AM-9:30AM
1.422
378
Westbound
7:30AK8-9:30AM
1.487
385
Eastbound
2:O0PK8-3L30PW1
1.713
564
Westbound
2:OOPW1-3:30PK8
1.042
587
Total
6.264
1.912
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 7
PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS AND RETENTION
Public records requests are forwarded to the City and the City can request needed information
from the selected vendor. Images must be retained and accessible up through the exhaustion
of the appeals process and then destroyed. The police department does not have a specific
policy related to the retention of automated traffic safety cameras or notice of infractions issued
since the Washington State law enforcement records retention schedule dictates our retention
schedule.
The activity of enforcing laws and
ordinances and citing violations
(including traffic, non -traffic and
vessel or vehicle -related
violations).
DISPOSITION AUTHORITY NUMBER (DAN)
DESCRIPTION OF RECORDS
RETENTION AND
DISPOSITION ACTION
DESIGNATION
LE2010-052 Rev. 0
Automated Traffic Safety Cameras
— Citation or Notice of Infraction
Issued
Images captured by automated
traffic safety cameras which have
resulted in the issuance of a citation
or notice of infraction.
Retain until exhaustion of appeals
process
then
Destroy.
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
LE2010-053 Rev. 0
Automated Traffic Safety Cameras
— Citation or Notice of Infraction
Not Issued
Images captured by automated
traffic safety cameras which have
not resulted in the issuance of a
citation or notice of infraction.
Retain until verification that no
infraction has been captured
then
Destroy.
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
LE2010-054 Rev. 0
Automatic License Plate
Recognition Images — Case -
Specific
Images of vehicle license plates
captured by automatic license plate
imaging equipment and which do
contain images significant to case
investigations or court
proceedings.
Retain until exhaustion of appeals
process
then
Destroy.
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
LE2010-055 Rev. 0
Automatic License Plate
Recognition Images — Not Case -
Specific
Images of vehicle license plates
captured by automatic license plate
imaging equipment and which do
not contain images significant to
case investigations or court
proceedings.
Retain until verification that a
significant image has not been
captured
then
Destroy.
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
7
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 8
VENDOR SELECTION
The police department has drafted an RFP to select a suitable vender. The review and selection
process will incorporate criteria based on experience and a broad level of service focused on
past successes inother jurisdictions.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Considering normal red light and school zone cameras vendor business models, there iano
upfront cost. The equipment ieleased from the vendor, and the per camera, per -month charge
quoted is estimated at $4.500.00tD$5.000.00. These programs are self -funding 8vvo citations
per day per camera will mitigate the lease costs) and vendors normally require a three tofive-
year contract to actualize their return oninvestment. The per year contractual cost would b8
appnoxinnate|y.$4O0.00O.UO.
RECOMMENDATION
Forward toCouncil for consideration and approval ofthe proposal ofthmthree-yamr pilot
program proposal for the red light cameras and the school speed zone cameras with the
corresponding ordinances atthe July 22.2O1SCommittee ofThe Whole Meeting and
subsequent August 5.2O1SRegular Meeting.
Further, I recommend a phased process for the implementation which affords the Council an
opportunity b)off ramp atvarious junctures prior` tDanactual contract being signed.Thioafforda
the department to work through the n)u|Up|e steps requiredto ensure a successful program
implementation.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION REQUESTED
At the end ofthe October 22.2O18meeting, the council requested additional
information/responses to several questions. Responses to the inquiries are outlined below:
1. Pictorial representations ofthe three intersections showing the approximate |nooUonoofUle
cameras are included in the memo.
2 Per the RCW 46.63.10(d).Cameras can only take mpicture of the vehicle plate and not the
driver or the interior of the violating vehicle.
3. Use cfrevenue after program costs for cameras and other equipment, are normally used for
traffic safety programs or initiatives.
4. Photos and video are maintained in the vendor cloud and regulated by The Tukwila Police
Department based oMour requirements. This is nodifferent from In -Car Camera orBody-
Camera wideornojntainedbyAnonEvidenoe.conl. Images and video are available through the
POFlprocess facilitated bythe police department.
5. Retention policies associated with video and photo enforcement are regulated by the WA
State Retention Schedule for Law Enforcement.
6, The police department will set a minimum time of 90 days for general retention not
associated with anappeals process orcase investigations orproceedings. The latter will abide
bythe VlA\State retention policy.
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 9
7. Additional information requested regarding school speed zone cameras show the following:
• They measure violators speed during designated school or school activity hours
• They are treated the same as red light cameras as far as retention and processing
• The fines can be higher based on the violators speed measured over the posted limit
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS POSTED
The traffic camera proposal and ordinance were sent back to committee and at the December 3,
2018 Committee Meeting, and Chair Hougardy asked several questions. The questions with
answers are listed below:
What is fine in school zones?
If a traffic officer writes you a ticket (RCW 46.61.440 it would be the following schedule:
* 0-5 MPH $214.00
* 6-10 MPH $234.00
* 11-15 MPH $296.00
* 16-20 MPH $378.00
* 21-25 MPH $480.00
* 26-30 MPH $583.00
* 31-35 MPH $685.00
* 36+ MPH $808.00
Photo Enforcement
* School zone speed camera violation
* 0-10 MPH $210.00
* 11+ MPH $240.00
* Red light camera violation $139.00
* Fines set by RCW 46.63.170, RCW 46.63.110
What times will the cameras be operational?
* Usually an hour before and two hours after school to include special school events when
children are present. The times can be changed; however, these changes are supported by
proper signage and flashing lights advising driver's that the cameras are in operation. The
police department will collaborate with the school district to publish and establish times of
operation for the flashing signs.
9
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 10
At what Speed limits would the fines be enforced? Can these be changed? If so, who
makes the decision and how are others notified?
* RCW dictates, police have discretion. The police department recommended threshold is 26
miles per hour.
Where would the cameras be placed?
* Between Foster High School and Showalter Middle School
When was the study in the referenced presentation conducted?
We work closely with public works and are constantly gathering data, we just bought additional
8 speed/data gathering signs. The latest study/information gathered in the school zone (east
and west bound S 144th Street between FHS and Showalter) was collected between March 25
through April 26, 2019.
Will the tickets be reported to insurance companies?
* No, automated enforcement tickets are treated like parking tickets and are not reportable and
do not accumulate points.
What other types of mitigation are available and are they being considered?
* Public Works have added crosswalk signs in the middle of the roadway in the 4600 block of S.
144th Street, speed data/notification signs will remain in place, other speed notification and the
required speed zone enforcement notification signs will be in place. There are no other traffic
calming plans at this time, because plans such as pinch points, traffic circles, traffic islands,
and/or speed bumps would require major construction and additional funds.
What other cities have school speed zone cameras, and have they been removed and
why?
* The surrounding jurisdictions have school zone cameras and are only increasing their
programs as they are quite effective to reduce speeding in the school zones. Seattle has 120
school zone cameras, Renton, Tacoma, and Des Moines all have school speed zone cameras
and red light cameras, just to name a few. Tacoma has the only state's speed zone camera as
of this writing.
What kind of public outreach, if any, is planned before consideration of passing the ordinance?
* Social media, community meetings (COPCAB, TIBAC).
What kind of outreach to the school board and school district, if any, is planned before
consideration of passing the ordinance?
* Chief Linton and Sergeant Devlin met with the Tukwila School District Superintendent on
January 7, 2019 and discussed the upcoming proposal.
Chief Linton met and briefed the school board on Jan 8, 2019 and is working with the School
District Communications Officer for dissemination throughout the district to include parents and
student drivers. In June 2019, Tukwila public information officer, in collaboration with the
10
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 11
Tukwila School District launched an information campaign via social media to school district
employees, students and parents regarding the proposed school zone cameras. On July 9,
2019 Chief Linton updated the Tukwila School Board on the results of the updated speed
analysis in the vicinity of Foster High School and Showalter Middle School and garnered
support for the pilot program.
How will the fines associated with school speed -zone cameras impact citizen ability to
pay the associated fines?
Judge Walden spoke to the ability of individuals to mitigate fines associated with automated
enforcement. She spoke to the possibility of reduction of fines based on the ability to pay and
other alternatives such as community service, It should be noted that the level of mitigation
associated with automated enforcement is not available for violations witnessed by an officer.
ATTACHMENTS
Original PowerPoint with supplemental information to the info memo
Public Safety Committee Meeting Minutes, Dec 3, 2018.
Tukwila School District & School Board Communication
Police Department Communications and Frequently Asked Questions Shared with the Public
Red Light Camera Ordinance
School Speed Zone Camera Ordinance
RCW 46.63.170
11
12
-,-
Automated Safety Cameras - Agenda
• Background
• Analysis - Red Light Cameras
• Proposed Red Light Camera Locations
• Analysis -School Speed -Zone Cameras
• Proposed -School Speed Zone Camera Locations
• Retention
• Vendor Selection
• Financial Impact
• RCW 46.63.170
• Strategic Communications (Frequently Asked Questions)
• Proposed Timeline
• Associated Ordinances
Automated Safety Cameras
• Background
• Analysis - Red Light Cameras
• Proposed Red Light Camera Locations
• Analysis -School Speed -Zone Cameras
• Proposed -School Speed Zone Camera Locations
• Retention
• Vendor Selection
• Financial Impact
• RCW 46.63.170
• Strategic Communications (Frequently Asked Questions)
• Proposed Timeline
• Associated Ordinances
Automated Safety Cameras
• Background
• The most prevalent complaint from our residents is speeding on our arterials,
neighborhoods and school zones.
• Our small traffic unit has a difficult time keeping up with the increased call for
enforcement.
• Using automated safety cameras can increase efficiencies in the areas of
traffic enforcement, education and the overall traffic and pedestrian safety
within our city.
• Studies have shown that red light and speed zone cameras will make the city
streets safer by reducing red light running and school speed -zone violations.
• Automated Safety Cameras are currently used in King, Pierce, Snohomish,
Spokane, and Chelan counties. Here in King County, there are programs in
Bellevue, Des Moines, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Lake Forrest Park, Mercer
Island, Renton, and Seattle.
01
Red -Light Cameras -Analysis
• Red light running nationally causes hundreds of deaths, tens of
thousands of injuries and billions of dollars in property damage.
• A driver runs a red light about every 20 minutes and more frequently
during peak times.
• Studies show that automated safety cameras have reduced red light
running, which in turn reduces the potential serious injury right angle
collisions.
• They educate the public and that education has a spillover effect to
the non -camera intersections.
• They will assist with increased traffic flow and increase the safety of
police officers.
Community Outreach
• Portions of the general public remain
skeptical regarding the overall
purpose of Automated Enforcement
as evident from some of our feedback
• A significant portion of Tukwila
residents impacted by the speeding in
city have been supportive
• Nationally, studies show that a high
percentage of the public is in favor of
automated red-light cameras and the
• Tukwila Police Department has
reached out at community meetings
and through social media to garner
support in our area:
• Public Safety Committee
• Tukwila School Board
• Community Oriented Police Citizens
Advisory Board
• Tukwila International Boulevard
Action Committee
• Tukwila Reporter Newspaper
• Hazelnut Publication
• City of Tukwila Website linked to
Police Department Website
Proposed Red Light Camera Intersections
Collision Stats 2014-2016
• Boeing Access Road at MLK Jr Way S
21collisions:
0 Fatalities
2 right angle w/no injuries reported
5 sideswipes
13 rear -enders
lfixed object
• Southcenter Parkway at Strander Blvd
34 collisions:
0 Fatalities
5 right angle w/2 injuries
15 sideswipe
9 rear -enders
5 fixed objects
• Grady and Interurban Ave S
24 Collisions:
1 Fatality
5 Right angle w/5 injuries
9 Rear -enders
10 Fixed objects
Approximate Locations of Red -Light Cameras MLK
At Boeing Access
Approximate Location of Red -Light Cameras for
Southcenter Parkway at Strander Blvd
Approximate Locations of Red -Light Cameras
Grady and Interurban Ave S
School Speed -Zone Camera Analysis
• In Washington State, school speed zones are posted at 20 mph
• Despite mitigation efforts between Public Works and the Police
Department, individual drivers continue to speed through Tukwila
school zones, creating concerns among citizens.
• Other mitigation methods; speed limit signs, flashing (radar) speed
measuring signs, crosswalks and other warning signs/controls
themselves have been ineffective.
School Speed -Zone Camera Analysis
• Reports show that crashes including pedestrians are eight times more likely
to result in death than those not involving pedestrians.
• That likelihood is greatly impacted by the speed at which the car is
traveling.
• Someone under the age of 30 years old only has a 3% chance of being
killed by a vehicle traveling 20 mph and that risk increases to 13% at 30
mph.
• The risk increases rapidly from, reaching about 52% when the vehicle
speed is 45 mph.
• Slower vehicle speeds mean a pedestrian has a greater chance of survival if
hit, which is the benefit of a school speed zone.
Proposed School Speed -Zone Camera Locations
Proposed School Speed -Zone Camera
Locations
Zane Sped Cameras
Speed summary Reports for Foster High and Showalter Middle School in
the 4600 Block of 5.144rh Street East and West Bound (April 1-5, 2019)
Travel Times - Children
Present
7:30AM - 9:30AM
7:30AM - 9:30AM
Total Number of
Vehicles
1,422
1,417
Violators Speeds
25 - 45 mph
341
344
2:OOPM - 3:30PM 1,713 500
2:OOPM - 3:30PM 1,634 566
Total
6,186 1,751
Speed summary Reports for Foster High and Showalter Middle School in
the 4600 Block of 5.144rh Street East and West Bound (April 22-26,
2019)
Travel Times - Children
Present
7:30AM - 9:30AM
7:30AM - 9:30AM
Total Number of
Vehicles
1,422
1,487
Violators Speeds
25 - 45 mph
376
385
2:00PM - 3:30PM 1,713 564
2:OOPM - 3:30PM 1,642 587
Total
6,264 1,912
Public Records Requests Retention for Violations
and Traffic Enforcement
Retention for Violations and Traffic Enforcement
The activity of enforcing laws and ordinances and citing violations (including traffic, non -traffic and vessel or vehicle -related violations).
DISPOSITION AUTHORITY NUMBER (DAN)
LE2010-052 Rev. 0
LE2010-053 Rev. 0
LE2010-054 Rev. 0
LE2010-055 Rev. 0
DESCRIPTION OF RECORDS
Automated Traffic Safety Cameras —
Citation or Notice of Infraction Issued
Images captured by automated traffic
safety cameras which have resulted in the
issuance of a citation or notice of
infraction.
Automated Traffic Safety Cameras —
Citation or Notice of Infraction Not Issued
Images captured by automated traffic
safety cameras which have not resulted in
the issuance of a citation or notice of
infraction.
Automatic License Plate Recognition
Images — Case -Specific
Images of vehicle license plates captured
by automatic license plate imaging
equipment and which do contain images
significant to case investigations or court
proceedings.
Automatic License Plate Recognition
Images — Not Case -Specific
Images of vehicle license plates captured
by automatic license plate imaging
equipment and which do not contain
images significant to case investigations or
court proceedings.
RETENTION AND
DISPOSITION ACTION
Retain until exhaustion of appeals process
then
Destroy.
Retain until verification that no infraction
has been captured
then
Destroy.
Retain until exhaustion of appeals process
then
Destroy.
Retain until verification that a significant
image has not been captured
then
Destroy.
DESIGNATION
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
NON -ARCHIVAL
NON -ESSENTIAL
OPR
Vendor Selection Process
Budget for Proposed Red -Light and School Speed
Zone Cameras
• Vendor business models for Red Light and School Zone Cameras require no upfront costs
• The equipment is owned and maintained by the contracted company (Leased Equipment)
• Most reputable vendors have indicated that the lease pays for itself and our collaboration with
other agencies have confirmed this model
• Less than two fully paid infractions per day will cover the monthly lease for each camera.
• 6 Red Light Cameras at $4,500 to $5,000.00 per camera, per month - $360,000.00 per year
• 6 Photo enforcement signs $500.00 each - $3,000.00
• 2 School Speed Zone at $4,500-5000 per camera, per month - $120,000 per year
• 2 Photo enforcement signs $500.00 each - $1,000.00
No additional FTE's for the PD
Recommend a "wait and see" approach with regard to adding personnel for the potential municipal
court workload
21
Protections Under RCW 46.63.170
• Per the RCW 46.63.170, Cameras Only Take a Picture of the Vehicle
and Plate Only, not the Driver or Interior of the Violating Vehicle.
Electronic images prepared under this section are for the exclusive
use of law enforcement in the discharge of duties under this section
and are not open to the public and may not be used in a court in a
pending action or proceeding unless the action or proceeding relates
to a violation under this section.
No photograph, microphotograph, or electronic image may be used
for any purpose other than enforcement of violations under this
section nor retained longer than necessary to enforce this section.
RCW 46.63.170 Guidance and Best Practices
• compensation paid to the manufacturer or vendor of the equipment used must
be based only upon the value of the equipment and services provided or
rendered in support of the system, and may not be based upon a portion of the
fine or civil penalty imposed or the revenue generated by the equipment. (RCW
46.63.170)
Tukwila Police Red -Light and School Speed -Zone Cameras
Implementation Timeline
J U N 2020
MAR 2020 QUARTERLY ANALYSIS
DEC 2022
FINAL PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE UPDATE
FULL IMPLEMENTATION DETERMINATION
DEC 2021 7 ANNUAL ANALYSIS WITH UPDATES AS REQUESTED
DEC 2020 ANNUAL ANALYSIS
QUARTERLY ANALYSIS
QUARERLY ANALYSIS
JAN 2020 QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF THE PROGRAM BEGINS
OCT 2019 RED LIGHT CAMERA PILOT PROGRAM BEGINS BEGINS
SEP 19 CONTRACT REVIEW AND COUNCIL APPROVAL
AUG 19 VENDOR SELECTION & SITE SURVEYS
July 19 DRAFT PROPOSAL & RFP
Public Safety Committee Minutes December 3, 2018
D. Contract Amendment: BNBuilders
Staff is seeking Council approval of Amendment No. 3 to Contract 18-049 in the amount of
$165,100 and $100,00 contingency for demolition of the vacant buildings on the Travelodge
property. Staff would like to demolish as soon as possible due to the risks associated with
vacant buildings. The contractor is hoping to begin demolition in December 2018 pending
utility disconnects and permits. The demolition and associated work is included in the
approved Justice Center project budget. The Committee asked that the memo be updated to
reflect that the City will pay a premium of around $60,000 to demolish the Travelodge now
before demolishing the other buildings on site. UNANIMOUS APPROVAL. FORWARD TO
DECEMBER 10, 2018 SPECIAL CONSENT AGENDA.
E. 2018 Public Safety Committee Work Plan
Committee members and staff discussed the status of items on the Committee work plan,
which will be included in the Committee of the Whole packet for a Council year-end report.
DISCUSSION ONLY.
III. MISCELLANEOUS
Traffic Camera Pilot Project
The traffic camera pilot proposal and ordinance were sent back to Committee after the addition of
a proposed school zone camera pair in the vicinity of Foster High and Showalter Middle School on
South 144th. The Police Department's original proposal was for three red light intersection cameras,
but some Councilmembers expressed interest to include school zone speed cameras in the pilot.
Committee members discussed the proposal. Judge Walden offered that tickets given by officers in
school zones cannot be reduced, and tickets resulting from these cameras would be preferable as
they can be reduced and they do not go on a permanent record. Community service is also an option
in lieu of payment. She believes school zone cameras are effective at reducing speeding behavior.
Chief Linton addressed outreach, stating that PD will engage with social media just as with the
original proposal. He met with the new interim Superintendent and will reach out to the School
Board.
Chair Hougardy asked that the following questions about the school zone cameras, some of which
are answered in the memo and presentation, be incorporated into a fact sheet for Council and public
reference before the next meeting:
1) What is the fine amount in the school zones? Give examples.
2) At what times of the day will the cameras be operational? Can these times be changed? If so,
who makes that decision and how are others notified?
3) At what speed limits would the fines be enforced? Can these be changed? If so, who makes
that decision, and how are others notified?
4) Where would the cameras be placed?
5) When was the study referenced in the presentation conducted?
6) Will the tickets be reported to insurance companies?
7) What other types of mitigation are available and are they being considered?
35
Public Safety Committee Minutes December 3, 2018
8) What other nearby cities have speed limit cameras in their school zones? Have any removed
the cameras and why?
9) What kind of public outreach, if any, is planned before consideration of passing the
ordinance?
10) What kind of outreach to the School Board and School District, if any, is planned before
consideration of passing the ordinance?
Chair Hougardy indicated that she had concerns about the social justice impact of school zone
cameras but liked the idea of the flashing lights serving as warning as well as the fact that the fine
can be reduced or substituted with community service. Councilmember McLeod stated that he was
in support of moving forward with the red-light pilot and that the school zone cameras needed
another touch by Committee. He asked if PD would consider removing one red light camera from
the pilot. Chief Linton stated that the locations were identified based on data and complaints and
the proposal is to leverage modern technology since officers can't be everywhere. His
recommendation remains three intersections and one school zone speed area. Councilmember
Robertson said he wants the focus to remain on safety and reducing dangerous driving behavior.
The Committee agreed that the 2019 Public Safety Committee should discuss this item prior to
sending it on to Committee of the Whole.
Adjourned 6:38 p.m.
) Committee Chair Approval
Summary by LH
36
Dear Tukwila School District Staff, Students and Parents:
The Tukwila Police Department /ecentk/ proposed school zone speed cameras for the area of5l44m
between 42"aAve South and 46thAve S, VVecontinue toreceive mounting complaints regarding
speeding inschool zones. The Safety of our children is the number one priority for the Tukwila Police
Department. The Tukwila Police Department has attempted to mitigate the multiple traffic complaints in
our school zones. Several methods have been used to curtail traffic issues. These efforts include speed
signs, cross walks, speed notification signs, and school zone speed enforcement. These efforts have not
been effective inthat weare still receiving complaints about significant speeding inour school zones,
especially along S144th Street.
VVecollected data over the course ufnnevveek,betmxeen7:3OAM-9:0]AMandagainatl:30PM`3:3O
PM The data shows that in the mornings and evenings when students are present, there is adgnificant
amount of speeding in this school zone.
The radar equipment captured 6,264motorists. Dfthose l,9lZwere traveling atspeeds between Z5-4O
miles per hour. The posted speed limit in school zones is 20 mph because at this speed or below drivers
and children walking have more time tosee each other and react. |naddition, the likelihood ofafatality
atorbelow 2Omiles per hour isapproximately lO%. When that speed 1sincreased to3Dmph the risk of
afatality increases toapproximately 68Y6.
Many emphasis patrols involve citations that are written by hand by officers. These patrols often take
attention away from other areas inthe city. Those that receive tickets from officers can experience the
* High penalties and fees
* Tickets received bvofficers are included onthe offender's driving record.
* This could have and effect oninsurance rates
• And those tickets cannot bemitigated.
The cameras would beactive from 7:3DAM—EL0OAMand again from 2/00PM 3:3OPM. Signs and or
flashing lights will be activated during the times that the cameras are operational.
The cameras are connected to the school zone beacons and only operate when the beacons are flashing.
if the beacons are not flashing, then drivers will not be issued citations.
Photos of the vehicle and the vehicle license plate taken at the time the vehicle was detected speeding
inaschool zone are filed along with a notice ofinfraction inTukwila Municipal Court.
37
The violator will besent anotice ofinfraction inthe mail. That notice will contain aphoto ofthe vehicle
and license plate. The driver or occupants of the vehicle will not be photographed or distributed, as that
would beinviolation ofRCVV46.G3.270. The photograph and video ofthe violation will beavailable
online for the violator to review.
Additional information associated with camera enforcement:
* Citations can bemitigated.
* Camera enforced citations are treated much the same way as a parking violation and are not
included onthe violator's driving record
• Camera enforced citations do not affect insurance rates.
We would like to hear from you about your concerns related to speeding in our school Zones
and we certainly ask for your consideration by monitoring your speed when transiting our
school zones. We truly believe you are as concerned as us when it involves the safety of our
38
Automated Safety Camera
Enforcement
Tukwila Police Department Communications Re: The Proposed Automated
Safety Camera Enforcement Pilot Program (commonly known as Red -Light
Cameras)
The Police Department is proposing an Automated Safety Camera Enforcement Pilot Program
(commonly known as Red -Light Cameras) and we want our community members to weigh in.
The department is faced with the challenge of ensuring the safety of our arterials and neighborhood
roadways while traffic volumes continue to increase. Ongoing patrols by our officers can only
accomplish so much, and it is important that we look at other tools that can help increase the safety of
our roadways.
Automated enforcement, commonly referred to as "Red -Light Cameras," provides us an opportunity
to reduce serious injury accidents at intersections with a history of high -frequency red light running
violations. The Department has reviewed historical data at key intersections to better understand if
this technology would improve safety with in the city of Tukwila. Indeed, the data clearly shows the
need for these in multiple major arterial intersections.
These proposed intersections were chosen based on collision data and potential violations based on
officers' observations and experience:
Boeing Access at Martin Luther King Jr (Southbound and Eastbound)
• Southcenter Parkway at Strander Blvd (Northbound and Westbound)
• Grady at Interurban Ave South (Eastbound and Westbound)
The Police Department's goal is to make these proposed locations well known before the cameras
are installed in the hopes that everyone will increase their vigilance and drive more carefully, avoiding
a ticket and or a terrible accident.
Automated enforcement is currently used in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, and Chelan counties.
Here in King County there are programs in Bellevue, Des Moines, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Lake
Forrest Park, Mercer Island, Renton, and Seattle.
Red light running nationally causes hundreds of deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and billions of
dollars in property damage. A driver runs a red light about every 20 minutes and this happens more
frequently during peak times. Studies show that automated safety cameras have reduced red light
running, which in turn reduces the potential serious injury right angle collisions.
The camera systems will also assist with better tracking of intersection statistics such as traffic flows,
number of vehicles, peak hours of the days, number of collisions, and tickets issued in these
intersections.
As we seek to increase the safety of our roadway by incorporating this technology into our
enforcement efforts, the Police Department is interested in hearing from the public on their thoughts
on its use within the city of Tukwila.
Thank you for your interest and please share your thoughts at (Trafficsafety@tukwilawa.gov).
39
Automated Safety Camera
Enforcement
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AUTOMATED SPEED CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM
Q: Are Photo Safety Enforcement Programs effective?
A: Yes. Automated cameras have been proven to be effective in reducing red light running violations
and right-angle collisions. Jurisdictions that use this system consistently report safer roads and
intersections with fewer collisions.
Q: Why are cameras used?
A: According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, red light running is a leading cause of urban
vehicle accidents and often cause injury and death. Jurisdictions install the system to improve public
safety by deterring red light running.
Q: Isn't the main purpose of red light cameras to make money?
A: No. The goal of red-light camera enforcement systems is to improve public safety by reducing
injuries and deaths caused by accidents. Drivers are advised of camera systems at each intersection
that photo enforcement is in use by way of signage.
Q: Are motorists warned when they are approaching a Red -Light Camera Zone?
A: All locations where an automated traffic safety camera is used must be clearly marked at least thirty days
prior to activation of the camera by placing signs in locations that clearly indicate to a driver that he or she is
entering a zone where traffic laws are enforced by an automated traffic safety camera. Signs placed in automated
traffic safety camera locations after June 7, 2012, must follow the specifications and guidelines under the manual
of uniform traffic control devices for streets and highways as adopted by the department of transportation under
chapter RCW.
Q: Who receives the ticket?
A: Tickets are mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Q: Will "points" be assessed to my driving record?
A: This violation is considered a non-moving violation and no points will be assessed.
40
Automated Safety Camera
Enforcement
Q. If I am already in the intersection when a light turns red, will I get a violation?
A: No. Violations are only issued when a vehicle enters the intersection AFTER the light has turned
red. If you enter the intersection on a green or yellow light you will not be photographed by the camera
system.
Q: Is a penalty issued for making a right turn on red?
A: Tickets will also be issued if a driver makes a right turn on red —before failing to come to a
complete stop and if pedestrians are crossing the street or at intersections posted "No right turn on
red."
Q: Will the red-light camera take a picture of the driver of the vehicle?
A: No. A violation is assessed against the registered owner of the vehicle; it is not a moving violation.
Similar to a parking ticket, there is no need to identify the driver and therefore, no need to capture the
image of the driver. This violation will NOT affect your driving privileges or insurance rates.
Q. Can I receive citations for other offenses as a result of my red light
camera?
A: No. Drivers who receive photo enforcement citations are cited for Red Light Camera Violations
only.
Q: How much is the fine?
A: The amount of the fine for a Red -Light Camera Violation is $139.00
Q. How can I dispute this violation?
A: CONTEST A VIOLATION:
(1) Tickets may be contested through the Tukwila Municipal Court. The Police Department and the
Court will communicate the specifics as the program is further developed.
(2) If the basis of the claim is that the registered owner was not driving the vehicle, he or she may
complete an affidavit an any supporting documentation and forward to the court.
41
42
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER OF
THE TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE AUTHORIZING THE USE OF
AUTOMATED TRAFFIC SAFETY CAMERAS AT SIGNALIZED
INTERSECTIONS, AND ADOPTING STANDARDS RELATED
THERETO, TO BE CODIFIED AS TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER 9.52; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, very serious traffic accidents involving right-angle collisions at high
rates of speed are often the result of drivers running red lights; and
WHEREAS, studies show that these accidents result in more serious injury and
deaths than other accidents at signalized intersections; and
WHEREAS, locating automated traffic safety cameras at signalized intersections
has been shown to reduce the frequency of traffic violations at these intersections and
has resulted in a corresponding reduction in injuries and associated economic costs;
and
WHEREAS, the City has arterial intersections that would benefit from the strategic
placement of automated traffic safety cameras; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to improve traffic safety and pedestrian
safety throughout the City with emphasis on critical intersections; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Legislature has adopted Chapter 46.63 RCW,
which authorizes local jurisdictions to use automated traffic safety cameras at signalized
arterial intersections, subject to some limitations; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with RCW 46.63.170(1)(a), the City has prepared an
analysis of the locations where automated traffic safety cameras are proposed to be
located;
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NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Chapter 9.52 of the Tukwila Municipal Code Established. A chapter
of the Tukwila Municipal Code entitled "Automated Traffic Safety Cameras at Signalized
Intersections," to be codified as Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 9.52, is hereby
established to read as follows:
CHAPTER 9.52
AUTOMATED TRAFFIC SAFETY CAMERAS AT SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
Sections:
9.52.010 Automated traffic safety cameras — Detection of violations —
Restrictions
9.52.020 Notice of infraction
9.52.030 Prima facie presumption
9.52.040 Infractions processed
9.52.050 Fine
9.52.060 Nonexclusive enforcement
Section 2. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.010, "Automated traffic
safety cameras — Detection of violations — Restrictions," is hereby established to read
as follows:
9.52.010 Automated traffic safety cameras — Detection of violations — Restrictions
A. City law enforcement officers and persons commissioned by the Tukwila Police
Chief are authorized to use automated traffic safety cameras and related automated
systems to detect and record the image of stoplight violations at the intersection of two
arterials; provided, however, pictures of the vehicle and the vehicle license plate may be
taken only while an infraction is occurring, and the picture shall not reveal the face of
the driver or of any passengers in the vehicle.
B. Each location where an automated traffic safety camera is used shall be clearly
marked by signs placed in locations that clearly indicate to a driver that the driver is
entering a zone where traffic laws are enforced by an automated traffic safety camera.
C. "Automated traffic safety camera" means a device that uses a vehicle sensor
installed to work in conjunction with an intersection traffic control system or a speed
measuring device, and a camera synchronized to automatically record one or more
sequenced photographs, microphotographs or electronic images of the rear of a motor
vehicle at the time the vehicle fails to stop when facing a steady red traffic control signal
as detected by a speed measuring device.
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Section 3. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.020, "Notice of
infraction," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.52.020 Notice of infraction
A. Whenever any vehicle is photographed by an automated traffic safety camera,
a notice of infraction shall be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within 14
days of the violation, or to the renter of a vehicle within 14 days of establishing the
renter's name and address. A person receiving a notice of infraction based on evidence
detected by an automated traffic safety camera may respond to the notice by mail.
B. If the registered owner of the vehicle is a rental car business, the law
enforcement agency shall, before a notice of infraction is issued, provide a written
notice to the rental car business that a notice of infraction may be issued to the rental
car business if the rental car business does not, within 18 days of receiving the written
notice, provide to the agency by return mail: (1) a statement under oath stating the
name and known mailing address of the individual driving or renting the vehicle when
the infraction occurred; or (2) a statement under oath that the business is unable to
determine who was driving or renting the vehicle when the infraction occurred; or (3) in
lieu of identifying the vehicle operator, the rental car business may pay the applicable
penalty. Timely mailing of this statement to the agency shall relieve the rental car
business of any liability under this chapter for the infraction.
C. The law enforcement officer issuing a notice of infraction shall include with it a
certificate or facsimile thereof, based upon the inspection of photographs,
microphotographs or electronic images produced by an automated traffic safety camera,
citing the infraction and stating the facts supporting the notice of infraction. This
certificate or facsimile shall be prima facie evidence of the facts contained in it and shall
be admissible in a proceeding charging a violation under this chapter. The
photographs, microphotographs or electronic images evidencing the violation must be
available for inspection and admission into evidence in a proceeding to adjudicate the
liability for the infraction.
D. The registered owner of a vehicle is responsible for an infraction detected
through the use of an automated traffic safety camera unless the registered owner
overcomes the presumption set forth in TMC Section 9.52.030, or, in the case of a
rental car business, satisfies the conditions under TMC Section 9.52.020.B. If
appropriate under the circumstances, a renter identified under TMC Section 9.52.020.B
is responsible for an infraction.
E. All photographs, microphotographs or electronic images prepared under this
chapter are for the exclusive use of law enforcement in the discharge of duties under
this chapter and, as provided in RCW 46.63.170(1)(g), they are not open to the public
and may not be used in a court in a pending action or proceeding unless the action or
proceeding relates to a violation under this chapter. No photograph, microphotograph
or electronic image may be used for any purpose other than enforcement of violations
under this chapter nor retained longer than necessary to enforce this chapter.
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Section 4. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.030, "Prima facie
presumption," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.52.030 Prima facie presumption
A. In a traffic infraction case involving an infraction detected through the use of an
automated traffic safety camera under this chapter, proof that the particular vehicle
described in the notice of traffic infraction was involved in a stoplight violation, together
with proof that the person named in the notice of infraction was at the time of the
violation the registered owner of the vehicle, shall constitute in evidence a prima facie
presumption that the registered owner of the vehicle was the person in control of the
vehicle at the point where, and for the time during which, the violation occurred.
B. This presumption may be overcome only if the registered owner, under oath,
states in a written statement to the court or in testimony before the court that the vehicle
involved was, at the time, stolen or in the care, custody or control of some person other
than the registered owner.
Section 5. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.040, "Infractions
processed," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.52.040 Infractions processed
Infractions detected through the use of automated traffic safety cameras shall be
processed in the same manner as parking infractions.
Section 6. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.050, "Fine," is hereby
established to read as follows:
9.52.050 Fine
The fine for an infraction detected under authority of this chapter shall be a base
monetary penalty of $136.00; and provided further, that whenever, in the future, the
state of Washington increases the fine imposed under this chapter, by legislation or
court rule, the City's fine shall be increased to a like amount upon the effective date of
such legislation or court rule.
Section 7. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.52.060, "Nonexclusive
enforcement," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.52.060 Nonexclusive enforcement
Nothing in this chapter prohibits a law enforcement officer from issuing a notice of
traffic infraction to a person in control of a vehicle at the time a violation occurs under
RCW 46.63.030(1)(a), (b) or (c).
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46
Section 8. Corrections by City Clerk or Code Reviser. Upon approval of the
City Attorney, the City Clerk and the code reviser are authorized to make necessary
corrections to this ordinance, including the correction of clerical errors; references to
other local, state or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance numbering
and section/subsection numbering.
Section 9. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause
or phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to
be invalid or unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
Section 10. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be
published in the official newspaper of the City and shall take effect and be in full force
five days after passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting thereof this day of , 2019.
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'Flaherty, MMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Rachel B. Turpin, City Attorney
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
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48
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER
OF THE TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE AUTHORIZING THE
USE OF AUTOMATED TRAFFIC SAFETY CAMERAS IN
SCHOOL ZONES, AND ADOPTING STANDARDS RELATED
THERETO, TO BE CODIFIED AS TUKWILA MUNICIPAL
CODE CHAPTER 9.53; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, reduced speeds in school zones help decrease the likelihood of an
accident in areas with an increase in school -related pedestrian and vehicular traffic; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to improve traffic safety and pedestrian
safety throughout the City with emphasis on school speed zones; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Legislature has adopted Chapter 46.63 RCW,
which authorizes local jurisdictions to use automated traffic safety cameras in school
speed zones, subject to some limitations; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with RCW 46.63.170(1)(a), the City has prepared an
analysis of the locations where automated traffic safety cameras are proposed to be
located;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Chapter 9.53 of the Tukwila Municipal Code Established. A chapter
of the Tukwila Municipal Code entitled "Automated Traffic Safety Cameras in School
Zones," to be codified as Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 9.53, is hereby
established to read as follows:
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CHAPTER 9.53
AUTOMATED TRAFFIC SAFETY CAMERAS IN SCHOOL ZONES
Sections:
9.53.010 Automated traffic safety cameras — Detection of violations —
Restrictions
9.53.020 Notice of infraction
9.53.030 Prima facie presumption
9.53.040 Infractions processed
9.53.050 Fine
9.53.060 Nonexclusive enforcement
Section 2. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.010, "Automated traffic
safety cameras — Detection of violations — Restrictions," is hereby established to read
as follows:
9.53.010 Automated traffic safety cameras — Detection of violations — Restrictions
A. City law enforcement officers and persons commissioned by the Tukwila Police
Chief are authorized to use automated traffic safety cameras and related automated
systems to detect and record the image of vehicles engaged in school speed zone
violations; provided, however, pictures of the vehicle and the vehicle license plate may
be taken only while an infraction is occurring, and the picture shall not reveal the face of
the driver or of any passengers in the vehicle.
B. Each location where an automated traffic safety camera is used shall be clearly
marked by signs placed in locations that clearly indicate to a driver that the driver is
entering a zone where traffic laws are enforced by an automated traffic safety camera.
C. "Automated traffic safety camera" means a device that uses a vehicle sensor
installed to work in conjunction with an intersection traffic control system or a speed
measuring device, and a camera synchronized to automatically record one or more
sequenced photographs, microphotographs or electronic images of the rear of a motor
vehicle at the time the vehicle exceeds a speed limit in a school zone as detected by a
speed measuring device.
Section 3. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.020, "Notice of
infraction," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.53.020 Notice of infraction
A. Whenever any vehicle is photographed by an automated traffic safety camera,
a notice of infraction shall be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within 14
days of the violation, or to the renter of a vehicle within 14 days of establishing the
renter's name and address. A person receiving a notice of infraction based on evidence
detected by an automated traffic safety camera may respond to the notice by mail.
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Page 2 of 5
B. If the registered owner of the vehicle is a rental car business, the law
enforcement agency shall, before a notice of infraction is issued, provide a written
notice to the rental car business that a notice of infraction may be issued to the rental
car business if the rental car business does not, within 18 days of receiving the written
notice, provide to the agency by return mail: (1) a statement under oath stating the
name and known mailing address of the individual driving or renting the vehicle when
the infraction occurred; or (2) a statement under oath that the business is unable to
determine who was driving or renting the vehicle when the infraction occurred; or (3) in
lieu of identifying the vehicle operator, the rental car business may pay the applicable
penalty. Timely mailing of this statement to the agency shall relieve the rental car
business of any liability under this chapter for the infraction.
C. The law enforcement officer issuing a notice of infraction shall include with it a
certificate or facsimile thereof, based upon the inspection of photographs,
microphotographs or electronic images produced by an automated traffic safety camera,
citing the infraction and stating the facts supporting the notice of infraction. This
certificate or facsimile shall be prima facie evidence of the facts contained in it and shall
be admissible in a proceeding charging a violation under this chapter. The
photographs, microphotographs or electronic images evidencing the violation must be
available for inspection and admission into evidence in a proceeding to adjudicate the
liability for the infraction.
D. The registered owner of a vehicle is responsible for an infraction detected
through the use of an automated traffic safety camera unless the registered owner
overcomes the presumption set forth in TMC Section 9.53.030, or, in the case of a
rental car business, satisfies the conditions under TMC Section 9.53.020.B. If
appropriate under the circumstances, a renter identified under TMC Section 9.53.020.B
is responsible for an infraction.
E. All photographs, microphotographs or electronic images prepared under this
chapter are for the exclusive use of law enforcement in the discharge of duties under
this chapter and, as provided in RCW 46.63.170(1)(g), they are not open to the public
and may not be used in a court in a pending action or proceeding unless the action or
proceeding relates to a violation under this chapter. No photograph, microphotograph
or electronic image may be used for any purpose other than enforcement of violations
under this chapter nor retained longer than necessary to enforce this chapter.
Section 4. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.030, "Prima facie
presumption," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.53.030 Prima facie presumption
A. In a traffic infraction case involving an infraction detected through the use of an
automated traffic safety camera under this chapter, proof that the particular vehicle
described in the notice of traffic infraction was involved in a school speed zone violation,
together with proof that the person named in the notice of infraction was at the time of
the violation the registered owner of the vehicle, shall constitute in evidence a prima
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51
facie presumption that the registered owner of the vehicle was the person in control of
the vehicle at the point where, and for the time during which, the violation occurred.
B. This presumption may be overcome only if the registered owner, under oath,
states in a written statement to the court or in testimony before the court that the vehicle
involved was, at the time, stolen or in the care, custody or control of some person other
than the registered owner.
Section 5. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.040, "Infractions
processed," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.53.040 Infractions processed
Infractions detected through the use of automated traffic safety cameras shall be
processed in the same manner as parking infractions.
Section 6. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.050, "Fine," is hereby
established to read as follows:
9.53.050 Fine
The fine for an infraction detected under authority of this chapter shall be a base
monetary penalty of $136.00; and provided further, that whenever, in the future, the
state of Washington increases the fine imposed under this chapter, by legislation or
court rule, the City's fine shall be increased to a like amount upon the effective date of
such legislation or court rule.
Section 7. Regulations Established. TMC Section 9.53.060, "Nonexclusive
enforcement," is hereby established to read as follows:
9.53.060 Nonexclusive enforcement
Nothing in this chapter prohibits a law enforcement officer from issuing a notice of
traffic infraction to a person in control of a vehicle at the time a violation occurs under
RCW 46.63.030(1)(a), (b) or (c).
Section 8. Corrections by City Clerk or Code Reviser. Upon approval of the
City Attorney, the City Clerk and the code reviser are authorized to make necessary
corrections to this ordinance, including the correction of clerical errors; references to
other local, state or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance numbering
and section/subsection numbering.
Section 9. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause
or phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to
be invalid or unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
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Section 10. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be
published in the official newspaper of the City and shall take effect and be in full force
five days after passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting thereof this day of , 2019.
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'Flaherty, MMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Rachel B. Turpin, City Attorney
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
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RCW46.63.l7O: Automated traffic safety camera o__I}efiuidno. Puoc l of
Automated traffic safety cameras —Definition.
(1)The use mf automated traffic safety cameras for issuance of notices of infraction is
subject to the following requirements:
(a) The appropriate local legislative authority must prepare an analysis of the locations
within the jurisdiction where automated traffic safety cameras are proposed to be located: (|)
Before 8D8ot|ng an ordinance allowing for the initial use of automated traffic safety cameras;
and (ii) before adding additional cameras or relocating any existing camera to a new location
within the jurisdiction. Automated traffic safety conlenaS may be used to detect one or more of
the following: Stoplight, railroad crossing. or school speed zone violations; or speed violations
subject to (c) ofthis subsection. At minimum, the local ordinance must contain the
restrictions described in this section and provisions for public notice and signage. Cities and
counties using automated traffic safety cameras before July 24. 2005. are subject to the
restrictions described in this section, but are not required to enact an authorizing ordinance.
Beginning one year after June 7, 2012, cities and counties using automated traffic safety
cameras must post an annual report of the number of traffic accidents that occurred at each
location where an automated traffic safety camera is located as well as the number ofnotices
of infraction issued for each camera and any other relevant information about the automated
traffic safety cameras that the city or county deems appropriate on thenity'S oroounty's vvgb
(b) Except as provided in (c) of this subsection, use of automated traffic safety
cameras inrestricted tOthe following locations only: (i) Intersections oftwo arterials with traffic
control signals that have yellow change interval durations in accordance with RCW 47.36.022,
which interval durations may not be'reduced after placement Ofthe camera; /ii>railroad
crossings; and (iii)school speed zones.
(c) Any city west of the Cascade mountains with a population of more than one
hundred ninety-five thousand located in a county with a population of fewer than one million
five hundred thousand may operate ;sOautomated traffic safety camera tOdetect speed
violations subject tothe following limitations:
(i) A city may only operate one such automated traffic safety camera within its
respective jurisdiction; and
(||) The use and location ofthe automated traffic safety camera must have first been
authorized by the Washington state legislature as @ pilot project for at least one full year.
(d) Automated traffic safety cameras may only take pictures ofthe vehicle and vehicle
license plate and only while an infraction is occurring. The picture must not reveal the face of
the driver ornfpassengers inthe vehicle. The primary purpose ofcamera placement iStotake
pictures of the vehicle and vehicle license plate when an infraction is occurring. Cities and
counties shall consider installing cameras in a manner that minimizes the impact of camera
flash 0ndrivers.
(e) A notice of infraction must be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within
fourteen days of the violation, or to the renter of a vehicle within fourteen days of establishing
therenter'snmnoeendaddreaoundernubseotion(3)(a)ofth|sSeotinn.Tha|ovvenforoennent
officer issuing the notice of infraction shall include with it a certificate or facsimile thSr8Vf,
booed upon inspection of photognapha, nn|nrophotographn, or electronic images pF0dUC8d by
an automated traffic safety camera, stating the facts supporting the notice of infraction. This
certificate orfacsimile |sprima facie evidence ofthe facts contained |nitand ioadmissible in8
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0CW4(i6I]70: Automated traffic safety oumorax--OcOuidou. Page of
proceeding charging aviolation under this chapter. The photographs, microphotographs, or
electronic images evidencing the violation must be available for inspection and admission into
evidence in proceeding to adjudicate the liability for the infraction. A person receiving o
notice of infraction based on evidence detected by an automated traffic safety camera may
respond tnthe notice bymail.
(f) The registered owner of a vehicle is responsible for an infraction under RCW
46.63.030(1)(d) unless the registered owner overcomes the presumption in RCVV4G.G3.075.
or, in the case of a rental car business, satisfies the conditions under subsection (3) of this
section. If appropriate under the circumstances, o renter identified under subsection (3)(a) of
this section is responsible for en infraction.
(g) Notwithstanding any other provision oylaw, all phntOgnaphs, nn|nrophntnQraphn, or
electronic images prepared under this section are for the exclusive use oflaw enforcement in
the discharge of duties under this section and are not open to the public and may not be used
in a court in a pending action or proceeding unless the action or proceeding relates to a
violation under this section. NV photograph, nlicrnphntOgraph, or electronic image may be
used for any purpose other than enforcement of violations under this section nor retained
longer than necessary toenforce this section.
(h) All locations where an automated traffic safety camera is used must be clearly
marked at least thirty days prior to activation of the camera by placing signs in locations that
clearly indicate to a driver that he or she is entering a zone where traffic laws are enforced by
an automated traffic safety camera. Signs placed in automated traffic safety camera locations
after June 7.2O12.must follow the specifications and guidelines under the manual Dfuniform
traffic control devices for streets and highways as adopted bythe department oftransportation
under chapter 47.3GRCVV.
(i) If a county or city has established an authorized automated traffic safety camera
program under this section, the compensation paid to the manufacturer or vendor of the
equipment used must be based only upon the value of the equipment and services provided
or rendered in support of the system, and may not be based upon a portion of the fine or civil
penalty imposed orthe revenue generated bythe equipment.
(2) Infractions detected through the use of automated traffic safety cameras are not
part ofthe registered owner's driving record under RC\8/4G.52.1P1 and 46.52.120.
AdditiOna||y, infractions generated by the use of automated traffic safety
oanner8S under this
section shall beprocessed in the same manner asparking infractions, including for the
purposes n[RCVV3.SO.1OO.35.2Q'Z2O.4G.1GA.12U.and 4G.2U.2T0(2).The amount nythe fine
issued for an infraction generated through the use of an automated traffic safety camera shall
not exceed the amount of a fine issued for other parking infractions within the jurisdiction.
However, the amount of the fine issued for a traffic control signal violation detected through
the use of an automated traffic safety camera shall not exceed the monetary penalty for a
violation ofRCVV4S.G1.O50aoprovided under R[}VV4G.G3.110.including all applicable
statutory assessments.
C3\ If the registered owner ofthe vehicle is arental car business, the law enforcement
agency shall, before onotice ofinfraction being issued under this section, provide awritten
notice to the rental car business that a notice of infraction may be issued to the rental car
business ifthe rental car business does not, within eighteen days ofreceiving the written
nodic8, provide tothe issuing agency by return mail:
(a) A statement under oath stating the name and known mailing address of the
individual driving or renting the vehicle when the infraction occurred; or
RCW46.h].l70: Automated traffic safety camera s—D efiuitiou. Page 3of4
(b) A statement under oath that the business is unable to determine who was driving or
renting the vehicle at the time the infraction occurred because the vehicle was stolen at the
time of the infraction. A statement provided under this subsection must be accompanied by a
copy of filed police report regarding the vehicle theft; or
(c) In lieu of identifying the vehicle operator, the rental car business may pay the
applicable penalty.
Timely mailing nfthis statement tOthe issuing law enforcement agency relieves o
rental car business of any liability under this chapter for the notice Vfinfraction.
(4)Nothjng in this section prohibits law enforcement officer from issuing a notice of
traffic infraction to a person in control of a vehicle at the time a violation occurs under RCW
46.62.030(1) ). (b). or (c).
(5)For the purposes of this section, "automated traffic safety camera" means a device
that uses a vehicle sensor installed to work in conjunction with an intersection traffic control
system, a railroad grade crossing control system, or a speed measuring device, and a camera
synchronized toautomatically record one o[more sequenced photographs,
microphotographs, or electronic images of the rear ofm nnntnr vehicle atthe time the vehicle
fails to stop when facing Steady red traffic control signal or an activated railroad grade
crossing control signal, or exceeds a speed limit as detected by a speed measuring device.
(G)During the 2D11-2013and 2013-2O15fiscal biennia, this section does not apply to
automated traffic safety cameras for the purposes of section 216(5), chapter 367, Laws of
2O11and section 21O(0).chapter 30O.Laws of2013.
[2O153rdmp.s.c44840G;2U151st sp.s.o1O§7U2|2013o3OG§711'Prior: 2D12c85§
3;2012c83§7;2011r367G704|2010c161/61127|2008u470§714;2007o37283;
NOTES:
Effectk/edate--2O15 3md mp.s. c 44: See note following RCVV4G.G8.3S5.
Effective datm--30151st sp.o. c1O:See note following RCVV43.19.G42.
Effective date--'2013 c3OG: See note following RCVV47.G4.17U.
Find Gngm--yntent--2D13c BS:"The legislature finds that itie in the interests of e
driving public to continue to provide for uniform system of traffic control signals, including
provisions relative to yellow light durations, fine amounts for certain traffic control signal
violations, and signage and reporting requirements at certain traffic control signal locations.
The legislature further finds that uniform system of traffic control signals greatly enhances
the public's confidence in o safe and equitable highway network. Therefore. it is the intent of
the legislature to harmonize and make uniform certain legal provisions relating to traffic control
Effective date_201c 367§§703,��716,and 718: See note fo|lowingRCW
46.18.060.
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Effectivedate—intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of2O1O
and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session-2010 c 161: See
notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Effective dmta--20O9o47[:See note following RCVV46.68.17l