Markstay-Warren, ON – The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) is expressing strong concern regarding the Ontario government’s announcement to introduce legislation that would ban municipalities from using automated speed enforcement (ASE) cameras in community safety zones and school zones.

While the legislation was introduced to the Legislature on October 20, FONOM believes such a ban would undermine municipal efforts to improve road safety and protect children and pedestrians in Northern communities.

“Automated speed enforcement is an effective, data-driven tool that makes our roads safer,” said FONOM President Dave Plourde. “These cameras help reduce speeding, protect students near schools, and assist police departments that already face resource challenges across Northern Ontario. This is about safety—not politics.”

Many Northern municipalities, including the City of Greater Sudbury, have already invested in ASE programs and entered into long-term agreements to lease equipment and process offences. Cancelling these programs would create unnecessary financial and administrative burdens for local governments.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) has also expressed disappointment with the province’s plan, noting that ASE cameras have a proven record of increasing road safety and are cost-neutral for taxpayers, as they are paid for by speeders—not residents.

FONOM echoes AMO’s position that decisions about the use of ASE should remain a local choice. Northern municipalities are accountable, elected governments that best understand the safety challenges of their communities.

“FONOM supports a collaborative approach with the Province to improve road safety, not weaken it,” added Plourde. “We encourage the government to work with municipalities and AMO to refine the ASE program rather than eliminating it altogether. Every community deserves the ability to keep their residents safe.”

FONOM welcomes further dialogue with the Ministry of Transportation and other provincial partners to find constructive, evidence-based solutions to improve traffic safety and protect all road users across Northern Ontario.

Media Contact:
Dave Plourde, President
Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM)
705-335-1615 | [email protected]