Farmington Approves New Speed Camera Program to Reduce Speeding
The Farmington speed camera program is officially moving forward after a unanimous vote by the Farmington City Council on December 9, 2025. City leaders say the program is designed to slow speeding drivers, improve road safety, and collect better traffic data across the city.
The decision followed a detailed presentation from city staff and representatives from NovoaGlobal, a company that provides automated speed camera radar systems used by cities across New Mexico and the Southwest.
City officials described the program as limited in scope, data-driven, and focused on public safety rather than revenue generation.
What Is the Farmington Speed Camera Program?
The Farmington speed camera program will use radar-based cameras to detect vehicles traveling above posted speed limits. When a vehicle is recorded speeding, the incident is reviewed before any citation is issued.
According to city staff, every potential violation will be reviewed by a police officer with the Farmington Police Department. This review process is intended to ensure accuracy and prevent improper citations.
During planning, city staff confirmed the agreement requires a five-year commitment and includes financial penalties if the city exits early. Council members said the long-term safety benefits outweighed those risks.
How Much Will the Program Cost?
Under the agreement, the City of Farmington will pay $27 per paid citation issued through the system. The city will also pay $75,000 per year for camera equipment, which includes five cameras at $15,000 per camera annually.
City officials said these costs are comparable to similar programs in other New Mexico communities and stressed that the system is intended to reduce speeding, not increase ticket volume.
How Much Is a Speed Camera Ticket?
Each speed camera citation will carry a $100 fine, consistent with New Mexico traffic law. City officials emphasized that the program will begin with a probationary period, during which drivers may receive warnings instead of fines.
The probationary phase is intended to give residents time to adjust and become familiar with camera locations before full enforcement begins.
Where Will Speed Cameras Be Located?
Initial camera placement will focus on 20th Street, where speed studies conducted between October and December 2024 showed repeated speeding concerns.
Proposed intersections include:
- Butler Avenue
- Knudsen Avenue
- Sullivan Avenue
- Hutton Avenue
Police officials said camera locations may change over time based on updated traffic data and safety needs.
Will Police Still Stop Speeders?
Yes. The Farmington Police Department confirmed that traditional traffic enforcement will continue. Speed cameras are intended to support officers, not replace them.
Police Chief Hebbe told councilors the department will continue routine traffic stops and may add additional traffic-calming measures in the future, including signage, roadway design changes, and public education efforts.
Why Did the City Approve the Program?
City Manager Rob Mayes told councilors that staff was seeking clear direction after discovering the program required a long-term commitment.
During council discussion, members asked questions about privacy, fairness, and oversight. City staff responded that:
- All citations are reviewed by police
- Data is used to improve traffic safety
- The program complies with state law
- Other cities, including Portales, have implemented similar systems
Councilor Jakino made the motion to approve participation. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
What Happens Next?
With approval granted, the city will begin working with NovoaGlobal to finalize camera installation, testing, and public notification.
Residents can expect:
- Public notice before enforcement begins
- A probationary warning period
- Clear signage near camera locations
- Ongoing reporting to city leadership
City officials said public feedback will remain important as the program rolls out.
Why This Matters to Farmington Residents
Speeding remains one of the most common traffic complaints reported to the city. Officials say the Farmington speed camera program provides a modern tool to slow traffic, reduce crashes, and protect pedestrians and drivers.
City leaders stress that drivers who follow posted speed limits will not be affected by the program.
PUBLIC RECORD NOTE
This article is based on official Farmington City Council meeting minutes dated December 9, 2025, obtained through the City of Farmington public records system.
