Soapbox: Cameras good for safety, and cash

Cameras good for safety, and cash

Naperville wants to sharpen its focus on nabbing those who run red lights by installing cameras at some intersections in Naperville. The city council has approved a contract to install eight such cameras at four intersections, beginning next year. While we don't doubt that the council has public safety in mind in taking snapshots of red-light runners, we also know such a system can be a good revenue raiser. Last year, Chicago made $20 million in ticket revenue for red light violations -- and it makes use of cameras.

Perks and poison

The DuPage County board is looking at cutting $100,000 for the Regional Household Waste Facility in Naperville, where people can safely dispose of toxic household materials. Since 1992, over 7 million pounds of such has been brought to the facility. This is a perfect example of where cuts in big county salaries and generous perks could provide ongoing funding for a valuable program.

Get moving on transit funding

Lack of a state plan to fund mass transit would not only put more motorists on crowded roads but also have them struggling to find a place to park their cars. The city of Naperville notes that cuts in Pace service that would come on Nov. 4 would have over 700 Pace riders who take the bus to the train station being forced to compete for parking spaces at both of the city's busy Metra boarding points. The city of Naperville wants the community to contact local legislators, urging them to get moving on transit funding. Residents would do well to follow through on this request.

Fall is falling in place

If the cooler weather doesn't have you convinced that fall is here, note that the Rotary of Club of Naperville's Oktoberfest kicks off next weekend. And trick-or-treat day in downtown Naperville has been set for Sunday, Oct. 28, 4 to 7 p.m.

Cast ballot for preservation project

Are we going to sit idly by and allow some Chicago or Lake County landmark to get thousands of dollars from American Express? Dagnabbit, no! Now is the time to vote early and often for a DuPage treasure of your choice. The Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook and the restoration of four stained glass military-themed windows at the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall in Aurora are among 25 Chicago-area places or things vying for some of the $1 million the American Express Foundation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation will give out in November. Everyone has until Oct. 10 to cast a vote at www.partnersinpreservation.com.

Rush-Copley honored

Congrats to Aurora's Rush-Copley Medical Center, which was named to AARP's 2007 50 Best Employers for Workers Over 50 List. The center was the only community hospital in the state to make the list, and one of six Illinois-based companies recognized for outstanding policies and practices for seniors. Keep up the great work.

Green thumbs, big hearts

The Daily Herald takes pride in organizing the Giving Garden, an 8-year-old program urging suburban gardeners to donate excess produce to area food pantries. But the project succeeds only through the bottomless generosity of area residents. Since July 1, the Giving Garden has attracted more than 60,000 pounds of produce; contributions may be made at various drop-off points through Oct. 1. Thanks to all who have taken the time and effort to make these nutritious foods available to those who rely on food pantries to feed themselves and their families.