The Venice City Council meeting on June 10, 2025, spotlighted a new initiative aimed at enhancing safety in school zones through the implementation of automated traffic cameras. Council members expressed strong support for the program, which is designed to free up police patrol units while ensuring the safety of students during school hours.

Vice Mayor Smith highlighted the initiative's no-cost approach, emphasizing its potential to improve safety without straining city resources. "There's no downside to this specific application," he stated, praising the decision to limit the camera system's use strictly to school zones.

Council member Frank underscored the importance of clear communication with the public regarding the new system. She advocated for increased signage and flashing lights to inform drivers about the cameras, noting that many may be unaware of their presence when receiving citations. "Their gut reaction is I didn't know," she remarked, stressing the need for proactive measures to educate the community.

The council also discussed the operational hours of the cameras, which will be active 30 minutes before and after school. Frank suggested that the council consider the changing schedules of students, many of whom now leave campus at different times for dual enrollment or internships. This could lead to increased traffic outside standard school hours, warranting further examination.

The cameras will operate 24/7 but will only issue citations during designated school times. This dual functionality includes capturing license plates for informational purposes, aiding in tracking down potential criminal activity without directly penalizing drivers outside of school hours.

Council members were reassured that there would be no financial penalties for the city if the program does not meet its citation targets, as the vendor would simply discontinue the system. The anticipated fine for violations is set at $100, significantly lower than traditional traffic fines, which can reach up to $500 for speeding in school zones.

As the council moves forward with this initiative, the focus remains on enhancing student safety while balancing community awareness and education. The next steps will involve finalizing the contract with the vendor and implementing the necessary signage and communication strategies to ensure a smooth rollout of the program.