TEA Union Head: Violation Photos 'Insult' to Members

Traffic Enforcement Agent union President James Huntley told a City Council panel recently that a bill that would require his members to take photos with each notice of violation "is not prudent" because more than 2,000 new hand-held devices would be needed at a cost of $2,500 per unit.

The legislation, which was introduced by Councilman James Vacca of The Bronx last year, aims to protect the liability of the city by presenting further evidence of traffic violations. Mr. Huntley, though, said in a phone interview that the policy would send a message to Traffic Enforcement Agents that they could not be trusted. "It's giving no validation to my membership," he said. "It's totally irresponsible at this time for them to do this."

'Give Members the Money'

Mr. Huntley, the head of Communications Workers of America Local 1182, said the $60 million for cameras could be better spent on raises for Traffic Enforcement Agents, whose starting salary is less than $30,000 a year. "Why would the city spend $60 million for cameras when Traffic En- forcement Agents are living at the poverty level?' '' he said.

Mr. Vacca said the cameras could reduce disputes because the Traffic Enforcement Agents have irreversible proof of a violation. "I think the photograph would be proof-positive whether someone is guilty or innocent," he said in a phone interview. "Many people who may contest tickets would be discouraged because the proof is in the pudding, so to speak."

Mr. Huntley noted that disputes over tickets are often decided by the courts and that photos can be smudged or come out blurry. "They don't need extra proof," he said. "The proof is that they took an oath to be Traffic Enforcement Agents. Why give an oath if you not going to uphold it?"

Mr. Vacca added that cameras would bolster cited violations, which could be subject to dispute in the courts. How close is that car really to the fire hydrant? Is that car bumper actually covering a curb cut?

Mr. Huntley does not see it that way. "It is definitely disrespecting us," he said. "It is aimed at us in a way. He is attacking us in a way."

Mr. Vacca denied that was his intent, saying, "This is nothing personal. I know they are doing a job.We realize the pressure they are under."