Goodyear approves recording on traffic cameras

By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

During the Oct. 28 Goodyear City Council meeting, officials introduced a proposed Traffic Signal Camera Operation and Recording Policy to regulate the use of traffic signal cameras in Goodyear. The initiative aligns with the city’s strategic plan for fiscal years 2025 to 2027 and addresses the need for improved traffic monitoring. The proposal was approved unanimously on a 6-0 vote.

The policy, developed by the Engineering Department's Traffic Operations Division, aims to establish guidelines for the operation, access, and storage of video footage from the city’s traffic signal cameras, which currently provide real-time monitoring without recording capabilities. The city plans to invest approximately $293,700 in equipment and virtual storage for recorded footage, funded by a previously approved $300,000 budget supplement for fiscal year 2025. Steve Scinto, Director of Engineering, recommended the adoption of the policy.

The approved policy states that only designated personnel will be authorized to access recorded footage, and public and media access to live feeds will be restricted. The recorded video may be used for traffic investigations, police inquiries, and operational reviews, following a formal information request process.

"The public’s biggest concern is what are we doing with the stuff that we are filming and how we intend to keep it from turning into Big Brother," said Bill Stipp, Goodyear councilmember. The city staff noted that documentation of requesting records from the public and government officials will help prevent surveillance abuse.

"This has nothing to do with trying to spy on people," said Councilmember Viki Gillis. "This is about (the police department) and protecting them and protecting constituents."

The initiative is part of the city’s strategic plan, which emphasizes identifying best practices for traffic camera usage. The current infrastructure includes Pan, Tilt, and Zoom cameras, used primarily for monitoring traffic conditions without recording capabilities.

Visit goodyearaz.gov for more information.