Speed-camera foe says he won't try to change law

The councilman-elect said the court battle will continue.
By JOHN GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
GIRARD -- Newly elected Councilman Daniel Moadus has been openly opposed to the city's use of a camera to catch speeders, but the battle over its use will stay in the courts, he says.
Moadus was elected to city council this week, beating out challenger Charles Doran by a vote of 342-228. Moadus previously has served on council two terms in the 1980s and one term in the 1990s.
Moadus also filed an action in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court in August, attempting to overturn the city's then 2-month-old traffic ordinance that allows a camera to be used to catch speeders in the city. Those cited are sent tickets in the mail, but lose no points on their licenses.
Moadus has now hired Atty. James Denney of Girard to challenge the camera matter. The court granted a continuance in October so that Moadus would have time to change some of the points in the initial complaint.
The pending litigation, Moadus said, was a boost to his campaign. He said many voters saw his being elected as another means of putting an end to the camera use, which he has touted as an unfair money grab by the city.
"I can't tell you how many people have approached me on this issue," he said. "I have talked to a lot of people and have only found about three people in favor of the camera."
Will continue court fight
Now that he is an elected member of council, Moadus said he will not attempt to change camera policy from within, but will continue to fight the matter in court. He said a court victory would have further-reaching implications.
"[Changing the city ordinance] would not set a precedent," he said. "I want this ruled illegal so it sets a precedent for other communities. So, I am going to continue with the legal fight."
Moadus said he does not believe other members of council would be inclined to change the ordinance even if he tried.
When council discusses the litigation, Moadus said it is not likely that he will voluntarily excuse himself from the discussion. He said as a council member he will represent those against the camera's use in council discussions and in court as well.
jgoodwin@vindy.com