Red-light cameras could be coming to Winfield

Winfield officials are considering a proposal to install the village's first red-light cameras at the intersection of Winfield and Roosevelt roads.

If approved later this spring, cameras at the high-volume intersection could generate as much as $200,000 a year for the town, which, like many communities, is having its share of financial woes.

Village board members are planning to adopt a budget for the 2010-11 fiscal year that addresses a projected $500,000 deficit in Winfield's $6 million general fund - the portion of the spending plan that pays for salaries and operating expenses.

The plan for red-light cameras stems from months of discussion about how the village can balance its budget.

"We have not approved anything as far as installation," Village Manager Curt Barrett said. "But we have had discussions with the board about the need to consider this."

In addition to formal approval from the board, the village needs a permit from the state before any cameras can go up.

But with an estimated 10,000 cars and trucks a day, village officials say the intersection of Winfield and Roosevelt would be a good location for the cameras.

"We have found a number of vehicles driving straight through on red lights," Barrett said. "It's not just right -turn issues. We're talking about vehicles going straight through."

While there are safety benefits, officials acknowledge installing cameras is an opportunity to support the town's police expenses.

With 13 officers, three sergeants, a deputy chief and chief, Winfield's police department represents more than half the village's personnel, according to Barrett.

The village is expected to save more than $100,000 by not filling two vacant positions, one for a patrol officer and the other for a sergeant.

However, Winfield's police pension costs have increased by $40,000 to roughly $366,000 a year.

"It goes back to being able to help pay for police service," Barrett said.

Other cost-cutting moves the village is expected to make include eliminating funding for five part-time crossing guards. Winfield Elementary District 34 has been asked to pick up that $40,000 annual cost next school year.

Village officials also are mulling the possibility of increasing the price of garbage stickers, towing fees and parking meter fees.