Committee receives audit of automated speed enforcement and red-light camera programs

The City of Ottawa's Audit Committee met today to receive an audit report on the automated speed enforcement and red-light camera programs. The City of Ottawa's Audit Committee met today to receive an audit report on the automated speed enforcement and red-light camera programs. The committee also reviewed the City's plans to implement the audit's recommendations.  The automated camera enforcement systems are key tools used in Ottawa and other Ontario municipalities to enhance road safety. In Ottawa, these cameras complement other City initiatives aimed at reducing speeding and modifying driver behaviour. This approach is guided by the City's Road Safety Action Plan, which integrates education, enforcement, and engineering strategies.   In 2024, the City operated 77 red-light cameras, which generated more than $11 million in revenue, and 57 automated speed enforcement cameras, which generated more than $29 million.  The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) conducted an audit assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of these programs between January 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024. The audit also considered the programs' alignment with Council direction and the Road Safety Action Plan.  The OAG found that both programs operate with effective and formalized processes and controls. The audit highlighted several best practices compared to other municipalities, including a data-driven site selection methodology and an effective quality assurance process at the City's new automated speed enforcement processing centre, which began operations in February 2024.  While acknowledging the programs' strengths, the OAG recommended that management: 

• Revisit the approach for how the City allocates revenues from the red-light camera program. 

• Update how results of the programs are measured and reported. 

• Review the site selection methodology for automated speed enforcement cameras. 

• Explore new automation technologies to more efficiently process violations. 

City management agreed with each of the OAG’s four recommendations and confirmed that work is already underway to implement the recommended changes.  The Audit Committee also received the OAG’s Semi-Annual Report on Follow-up Procedures, which outlines the work performed by the OAG between the period of July 1 to December 31, 2024 and the progress management has made on outstanding recommendations.  For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.