An example of local government NOT looking out for the needs of its citizens... [View all]

[MrScorpio]

Tacoma News

Tacoma to prosecute anyone making 'rogue crosswalks'



by ZAHID ARAB / KING 5 News

TACOMA, Wash. -- The City of Tacoma plans to prosecute anyone caught making a rogue crosswalk after five popped up recently.

The group behind them, “Citizens for a Safer Tacoma,” believes breaking the law is a risk it’s willing to take to save lives.

According to Tacoma police, traffic incidents have spiked in the area. At least 15 members of the group have been hit by cars. They went to the city to ask for help, but say they were turned away and are now taking matters into their own hands.

“If the city does nothing, we will,” said a spokesman, who wouldn’t go on camera because he didn’t want to be targeted.

The spokesman says their cause is important.

“None of us want to go to jail, but we’re more dedicated to the safety of citizens than we are to the law,” he said.

“It’s been a headache,” said Kurtis Kingsolver, Interim Public Works Director.

Each time a rogue crosswalk shows up, the city spends up to $1,000 to get rid of it. In addition to the costs, the city claims they create a safety issue.

http://www.king5.com/news/cities/tacoma/Tacoma-ready-to-prosecute-anyone-making-rogue-crosswalks-211313251.html

They can spend the $1,000 to REMOVE the citizen made crosswalks, but not the same amount of money to put them where they're needed.