TO: Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Michael Palma,Chief of Police
DATE: March 19, 2025
Title
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION - ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR “SPEED DETECTION SYSTEMS IN SCHOOL ZONES”
BACKGROUND: On July 1, 2023, House Bill 657 was codified into law, allowing municipalities to contract with vendors to place or install automated speed detection systems on streets within their jurisdictions. This legislative measure aims to reduce speeding in school zones, thereby enhancing the safety of students, parents, and school staff.
If the City Commission desires to deploy the automated speed detection systems, the first step is to amend City Code to allow the program. The ordinance was approved at first reading on June 19, 2024, and was tabled for nine months at the second reading on July 3, 2024.
Since then, the City of Hollywood has implemented the speed detection systems and have had very positive reviews thus far with just over an average of 91% reduction in speeding.
On the other hand, we have also learned that on March 6th, Manatee County Commissioners voted to end their School Speed Zone Camera Program after approximately seven months of being operational. The program, implemented in August, led to the outcry from residents who received tickets while school zone lights were off and during off-school hours.
City staff is seeking City Commission direction whether this ordinance is to be brought back for a second reading for consideration, with or without additional changes.
RECOMMENDATION: To be determined.
FISCAL IMPACT:
CONTACT PERSON: Major Kevin Stransky