Waukegan plans review of red-light policies

Former alderman cites pattern of ticketing on lawful right turns

WAUKEGAN -- A review of the city's red-light camera policies is scheduled to take place over the next few weeks in response to citizen complaints about tickets written for improper right turns, rather than for running a red light.

Mayor Robert Sabonjian told the City Council Monday that "we are reviewing the situation" with the current vendor, adding that he wants to make sure that "when (motorists) are given a ticket, it's for a valid reason."

Sabonjian's comments came in response to former 4th Ward alderman Frank Harris Jr., who told the council that he feels the current arrangement is "absolutely ridiculous."

Harris, describing a photo-enforcement ticket he was given at the intersection of Glen Flora and Lewis avenues, said tickets are being issued even to motorists who come to a complete stop when turning on red at intersections with a "faded or nonexistant" stop line.

"I stopped, looked north (then) made my turn," Harris told the council. "Even after doing all the proper things we used to do, I still got a ticket."

Harris added that "to many motorists, it's still a mystery how (the program) is being enforced." He pointed out that Gurnee is holding public information sessions on enforcement cameras, while Waukegan did not.

Noting that aldermen debated the same complaints earlier this year, 1st Ward Ald. Sam Cunningham said a review of the policy got lost in committee.

"We talked about revising the penalty phase, (because) this is a scam, in my opinion," Cunningham said. "It's being used as a money-making mechanism."

Penalties for violations meted out by enforcement cameras are $100, with another $100 fine if not paid within 30 days.