I'm calling on Thornton City Council to remove the red light cameras located at 88th and Washington and 120th and Colorado. These cameras are not just a nuisance; they represent an alarming increase in government surveillance, encroaching on our personal liberties that are supposed to be protected.

Every day, residents of Thornton like myself drive through these intersections, constantly feeling monitored in a way that feels invasive and oppressive. This constant surveillance creates an environment of stress and discomfort, knowing that a single momentary lapse could lead to significant fines. Let's not forget that drivers make mistakes, and these cameras indiscriminately issue fines without considering the context or intent, often to the detriment of honest, hardworking people.

Studies have shown that red light cameras can fail to improve safety. Some research even suggests they might increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions as drivers abruptly stop at yellow lights to avoid fines. According to a report by the National Motorists Association, the focus on generating citation revenue can overshadow genuine safety improvements.

Moreover, data suggests that localities often do not profit as expected, with a significant share of the generated revenue going to the private companies managing these systems. This raises the question: are these cameras really about safety, or are they a cash cow for private enterprises at the expense of public rights?

In essence, these cameras contribute to a larger issue of governmental overreach. With technologies like Flock cameras already enhancing surveillance, the addition of red light cameras is overkill and reflects a failure to prioritize the civil liberties of the residents they serve.

Join me in urging the Thornton City Council to dismantle these cameras. Let's stand for personal freedom and community trust, rather than succumbing to an unnecessary and invasive surveillance state. Sign this petition to advocate for a Thornton where safety is achieved through transparency and mutual respect, rather than questionable practices.