Spfld may buy license plate reader

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield is eyeing some new technology. It's a license plate recognition system that will scan license plates while driving up and down the streets looking for cars with outstanding parking tickets or unpaid taxes. When it finds one, it beeps, and then officials can either further fine the car, or tow it away.

City Counselor Tim Rooke is proposing this purchase to Springfield's productivity bank within the next month. It would cost $50,000 to $70,000, but he says it could bring in millions. The program is already being used in New Haven, CT.

Rooke told 22News that within eight months, New Haven's license reader generated 2.6 million in new revenue for that city. He hopes the same could be done in Springfield. Rooke says it's likely that the purchase will be made. If it is, the system could be in use by the start of this fall.

22News asked Springfield residents what they think about this potential purchase. Siobhan Spruill told 22News that "I think we have enough people watching over us. I think they're going a little too far." But Ira Kowarsky told 22News "If they owe the money, I say go after them and get the money and let it go to the city."

The license reader can also scan for stolen license plates, stolen cars, and help with amber alerts.