Letter: Use a carrot, not a stick

By: Gary R. Knight, Dothan | Dothan Eagle
Published: January 22, 2012

During a recent meeting of the Dothan City Commission, a discussion was held concerning the implementation of the camera-red light program. Each person presented their view with only a short time allotted. Each proponent justly stated that their point was to save injuries and lives of their friends, families and fellow residents. Each proponent seemed to be willing to surrender a portion of their and others’ rights and privacy to the government for a promise of safe streets and intersections.

Alternatives suggested to render the same results and avoid unjust citations were blatantly ignored.

It has become clear that revenue is the driving force behind the proposed law. A question concerning the extension of all yellow lights to a minimum of four seconds with a follow up of an all-round red light of three seconds was made. There was no reply.

If this were done throughout the city, I feel confident that the companies wanting to install the cameras would drop Dothan like a hot potato. The revenue would simply not warrant their service due to the reduction of violations. This can be accomplished at all the red lights, not just the lights earmarked for cameras.

Isn’t this what our city fathers are asking to accomplish?

Let’s try a common sense approach and try to use a carrot instead of a stick.

Gary R. Knight

Dothan