Saskatoon city council set to debate photo radar

City council in Saskatoon today will have its say on photo radar, but it doesnt look like they have the power to slam the brakes on the test project.

Police and SGI intend to bring roving photo radar to five locations on Circle Drive this month, but some city councillors have expressed skepticism, and called for a debate. Theyll get their chance to talk about the project today, however a report from the city solicitor suggests council does not have the authority to direct police on how to enforce the law.

Still, the idea of photo radar out on Saskatoon streets has people talking.Many people have written to council offering their opinions.

Many support the idea, saying Circle Drive is too dangerous. Others, like Bob Francois see photo radar as cash grab. Francois has seen roving photo radar in action on the roads in Arizona.

"Every time someone would spot one of those they were slamming on the brakes, so that became a bit of a hazard, he said.

Francois believes putting a few more police cars on the road doing enforcement in high speed areas would be more effective in slowing drivers down.

The first phase of the photo radar test is expected to roll out soon on Circle Drive. Phase two would see roving radar in school zones across the city.

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