Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The vendor administering the new school speed zone camera system in Buffalo is pointing to clerical problems resulting from a midwest ice storm in delayed mailing of citations.
Sensys Gatso acknowledges approximately 20,000 citations were mailed late, rendering them invalid and refunds will be processed. Notifications have already started going out to all motorists affected that their citations will be voided and for any fines already paid, refunds including any credit card convenience fee, if applicable, are forthcoming.
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown is aware of the issue and issued a statement saying; "As a result of these circumstances, individuals who received a citation that is postmarked more than 14 business days past the date of citation issuance will have their fines dismissed while those who have already paid their fine will receive a complete refund."
As a result of this issue, the City and Sensys Gatso have agreed that a local fulfillment center be used to process the citations as soon as possible. In addition, plans for a local call center will be developed in partnership with the City of Buffalo's Economic Development Division to ensure that motorists receive their violations in a more timely manner.
Despite the delayed delivery of the citations, Sensys Gatso notes that all of these infractions were accurately recorded and reported. The violations recorded acts of unlawful speeding from 11 miles per hour to as much as 25 miles over the posted speed limit of 15 miles per hour.
Mayor Brown says anyone with questions or concerns about the speed zone citations should contact the city via 311.
Buffalo Common Council President Darius Pridgen said the company needs to "straighten up and straighten up quickly" or else the common council will consider ending the agreement. Hear more of our conversation with Pridgen below:
