Union City Speed Cameras Threaten Business
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“We have red light cameras, speed cameras at different intersections and also a couple speed vans which can be set anywhere,” explained Mayor Terry Hailey of Union City. He said most everyone in Union city has become use to the area speed camera’s. Everyone except for him. ” I’ve been opposed to it since day one, because my personal feeling is that it gives the community a bad name sort of as a speed trap and place your gonna get caught,” he continued. Mayor Hailey said in his opinion the biggest supporter of the cameras is the police department, and while he does agree wrecks have dropped tremendously, he said the effect may be more than officials realize. For months, he said businesses as well as drivers have been begging for help, “Call on my voice mail this morning from a man in Martin who said he’ll never shop in Union City again.” “Well I don’t think local people have a choice but I think out of town people who get a ticket in Union city, certainly,” said Jim Kaizer. He owns Jim Kaizer auto sales and said possible customers are starting to avoid the area and he is already beginning to feel the pinch. “Well I’m sure that Union city has lost some business in Union city and some lost more than others because of those out of town,” he added. Mayor Hailey said the city signed a 5 year contract with the company that owns and operates the cameras. He said that they have 4 more years, before the issue can be reconsidered.
