The City of Brandon is reversing 38 speeding tickets, because of what it says was an error in process, and is returning any fees, fines, and demerits that came with the tickets.
In a media release, the City said “since January 2022, a pilot project on Durum Drive between Aberdeen Avenue and 26th Street has reduced posted speeds to 40 kilometers per hour. This pilot project expanded to include the Parkdale and Riverheights neighbourhoods on June 1, 2023 as well as Princess Avenue East and Rideau Park neighbourhood on July 1, 2023.
As a result of an error in process, an enabling bylaw was not passed by City Council before the pilot project.
“We apologize for our error and feel the fairest thing to do is wipe the slate clean on those tickets,” said Mark Allard, General Manager of Development Services.
The process for refunding any paid fines has started for those speeding in the reduced speed zones. People do not need to register to receive a refund. Residents with questions can call 204-729-2105.
City Council will decide on the pilot project’s next steps, including considering a bylaw to lower the speed limit on September 18, 2023. For the time being, the 40 KM signs will remain in place in the pilot project areas. The goal of this pilot project has been to determine if the City should consider reductions of speed limits in all residential neighbourhoods as a way of reducing collisions that result in serious injury or fatality.
Allard also said, “Fines are not our goal – keeping our roads safe is our goal.”
