Washington: Judge Slaps Attempt to Block Anti-Camera Vote

 

The Snohomish County Superior Court on Thursday found Monroe, Washington liable for a fine of up to $10,000 for denying photo enforcement opponents access to the ballot. Although two-thirds of voters in the city voted against the use of red light cameras and speed cameras in November, they were only allowed to consider a measure crafted by Mayor Robert Zimmerman. He asked voters whether they wanted to continue using cameras when the vendor's contract expires in 2013.

The citizens' group Seeds of Liberty had collected signatures from nearly half the city's active voters to place an immediate and binding camera ban on the ballot. Zimmerman sued to keep voters from considering that tougher language. In a letter ruling, Judge George N. Bowden said the city went too far, violating a state statute designed to stop "strategic lawsuits against public participation" or SLAPP.

http://thenewspaper.com/news/36/3696.asp

Although 68 percent of the Monroe's electorate rejected automated enforcement, city leaders have stuck by their decision to continue the camera program.

They need to find someone

They need to find someone qualified to run against the big guys - toss 'em out of office - then fire the rest!

Amazing that we still consider the country a Democracy!

Oh, that felt good!

Fred

This is MY Country

We need to remember that this is MY Country, Our Country - for too long we have allowed our so called representatives to treat us like sheep. This is the year to stand up for OUR Country and stop this foolishness like what is happening in Washington State and all around the United States - We are not European Socalists.

They need to recall the

They need to recall the corrupt mayor who is obviously having his pocket stuffed by the red light camera company.

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http://www.poi-factory.com/node/21626 - red light cameras do not work

Washington

Even though this is a messed up situation, I can't help but laugh at SLAPP.

This really demonstrates how far those in office will go to protect their money making machines.

I did check out another link,

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20120124/NEWS01/701249894

It's good to know that someone out there is watching out for common citizens.

how nice

See how nice they are those politician,they promise to care for you ,to look for your best interest..ones they get elect it.is hell with everyone else..

Easy Money

You know that it is hard to give up easy money, especially when WA loves to have unfunded mandates.

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G.