St. Petersburg, Florida --  In response to concern about Pinellas County red light camera policies, Mayor Foster has issued a moratorium on tickets. 

It was Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court Ken Burke's concerns regarding St. Petersburg and five other Pinellas cities' red light camera policies that caught the attention of Mayor Bill Foster. 

Mayor Foster has instituted changes to some areas of St. Petersburg's citation policies while language to the state law regarding red light cameras is reviewed.

See also: Clerk urges brakes for red-light camera violations

During this time of review Mayor Foster has made an administrative decision to impose a moratorium, beginning immediately, on issuing uniform traffic citations to persons identified in sworn affidavits submitted to the city within 30 days after the date of notification as having care, custody and control of the motor vehicle involved in the red light running citation.

Submitting a false affidavit is a second degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.

More than 80 municipalities in Florida currently operate red light camera programs to reduce dangerous incidents of red light running.

"St. Petersburg will work with County Clerk of Court Ken Burke, our fellow Pinellas municipalities and the Florida League of Cities to resolve Mr.Burke's concerns by suggesting modifications to the state legislation during the upcoming Legislative Session and by making changes to the wording of the city's notice of violation," said Mayor Bill Foster.

The Mayor also said he continues to have great faith in the effectiveness of the city's "Stop on Red" campaign and plans to continue the use of red light cameras in St. Petersburg.