LP Council Discusses Cameras At Intersections, Sewer Hookups

Two proposed ordinances, both of which the Lake Placid Town Council has discussed at length, were back on Monday night's council agenda in revised form.

It was the first of two public hearings for the ordinances - one that would allow the installation of cameras at intersections to catch red-light runners and the second to amend the town's sewer charges and policies. The second hearings will be held April 13.

The Traffic Light Safety Act is designed to reduce the number of accidents at intersections and let law enforcement respond to other criminal and traffic offenses.

The council voted 3-1 in favor of the measure. Councilman Steve Bastardi voted against it.

Bastardi said he not aware of problems with the traffic lights and accidents.

"It looks like a solution looking for a problem," he said.

Mayor Tom Katsanis said he thinks implementing the automated system will result in fewer accidents and will make money for the town. Katsanis added that other towns and cities that have installed cameras at intersections are pleased with the results.

Council Member Carol Smart made the motion to increase the penalty from $100 to $150 for each violation. According to the ordinance, because the violation relates to this act and not the state statutes, no points shall be recorded on the driving record of the vehicle owner or responsible party.

If adopted, the ordinance will have an introductory period for what will be called a red zone infraction. Beginning on the 90th day after the effective date, the vehicle owner is subject to the enforcement provision.

The ordinance has a provision for those who want to contest the notice of infraction to schedule a hearing before a special magistrate.

On the water/sewer ordinance, the council voted 4-0 during the first hearing.

According to the proposed ordinance, sewer connection will be required by the owner of each lot or parcel of land within the town in which any building or trailer is used for either residential, commercial or industrial use.

Connection to the municipal sewer system shall occur within six months following notification to do so by the town clerk.

The council decided to remove the section that covered leaks, breaks and errors for town water customers.