The Davenport City Council is considering a code change to align the City’s Automated Traffic Enforcement (ATE) program with a new Iowa state law.
The law requires municipalities to apply for permits to use speed cameras and justify how they impact traffic safety. The State of Iowa approved the City’s use of ATE systems at four fixed and 21 mobile locations to monitor drivers’ speed. The State denied the use of six fixed cameras and three mobile locations for speed monitoring. Red light cameras do not fall under the new law.
The City of Davenport is moving to update the code to reflect the new State law updates. Here are a few of the changes written into the ordinance:
Red light violations: The fine for a red-light violation will be $100, in alignment with other municipalities including Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.
Speed violations: Citations for drivers going at least 10 mph over the posted speed limit will increase to the maximum allowed by the State. The fines double when the violation occurs in a construction zone.
Fines:
11 - 20mph $75
21 – 25mph $100
26 – 30mph $200
> 30mph $500
Appeals: Citations are automatically sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. The ordinance states that the vehicle owner may appeal the violation through the Davenport Police Department by submitting clear and convincing evidence that they were not driving at the time of the violation. They must also provide information about who was driving the vehicle.
Collections: There is a section in the ordinance allowing the City to pursue municipal infractions against vehicle owners who do not pay their fines. The focus will be on drivers with multiple unpaid violations. Non-payment may include referral to a debt collection program administered by the Iowa Department of Revenue.
Also, in compliance with the new law, drivers in Davenport may notice permanent signage placed throughout the City. The Iowa law dictates signage must be installed at least 500 feet from where the enforcement system is used.