DEAR EDITOR:

Per the Trib article, March 26, speed cameras are an ancillary service, meaning their sole purpose is to generate additional income, says Chief John Freeman, Girard. The chief further says while the camera program does help slow down traffic, doing that is not as important as being on the road patrolling (stopping speeders) and responding to calls and vehicle crashes (caused by speeders).

Let’s think this through. If speed cameras were effective at slowing traffic there would be fewer vehicle crashes and less need to road patrol? If they truly are for safety, speed camera use should be a priority in Girard but they are not. Why? Per Chief John Freeman, cameras only generate additional income. Additional income that goes to the Girard general fund and to the street and capital improvement fund.

The Truth? Because the additional income does not benefit the Girard Police Department, with his budget, Chief Freeman is choosing to have his officers perform duties that actually promote safety; speed cameras do not!

BILL LICHT

Cortland