Frequently Asked Questions

The Motors Unit is part of our Traffic Enforcement division, created in response to the Melissa Citizens Survey, where 21% of respondents identified traffic enforcement as a top priority. Survey results indicated that 45% felt traffic enforcement needed improvement. The Motors Unit was initiated through the voter-approved Crime Control District in May 2024. With this approval, the city purchased two new motorcycles and data software aimed at improving traffic enforcement and promoting road safety.

The primary goal of the Motors Unit is to encourage safer driving through a three-tiered approach:

• Education & Awareness: We aim to inform and engage the community on traffic safety measures.
• Compliance: We expect all citizens to follow traffic laws and promote road safety.
• Enforcement: When necessary, we will use traffic stops, warnings, or citations to ensure compliance and improve behavior.

The Motors Unit will concentrate on areas where data indicates the greatest need for enforcement, particularly residential streets. We aim to address issues such as speeding, stop sign violations, and pedestrian safety concerns. Our approach will be data-driven, targeting high-risk areas identified through traffic complaints and our enforcement software.

Through a combination of proactive education, targeted enforcement, and community engagement, the Motors Unit will work to reduce traffic violations and ensure safer streets. Our officers will focus on promoting awareness and behavior change, leading to fewer accidents and safer roads for all residents.

The Motors Unit was made possible through the Melissa Crime Control and Prevention District, approved by voters in May 2024. This funding allowed the purchase of two motorcycles and advanced software to better analyze traffic patterns and enhance enforcement capabilities.

The Motors Unit will focus on violations such as speeding, stop sign violations, stoplight infractions, and pedestrian safety. By targeting these common issues, we aim to reduce accidents and enhance safety on our roads.

Success will be measured using data-driven metrics collected through our traffic enforcement software. We will assess the effectiveness of our efforts by analyzing reductions in traffic violations, accident rates, and overall compliance with traffic laws.

• Improved Road Safety: The CVE focuses on ensuring commercial vehicles (like trucks) follow proper regulations, such as weight limits, safety standards, and inspection requirements. This reduces the risk of crashes and road hazards that could affect local drivers and pedestrians.
• Reduced Traffic Congestion: By monitoring commercial vehicle routes and compliance with traffic laws, the CVE can help prevent large vehicles from using roads not designed for heavy traffic, which reduces congestion and makes travel smoother for residents.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Proper enforcement of commercial vehicle regulations can reduce noise and air pollution in residential areas, which can improve the overall environment and livability for Melissa residents.
• Better Infrastructure Preservation: The CVE ensures that commercial vehicles are following regulations designed to protect roadways from damage caused by excessive weight or improper use, helping maintain the local infrastructure and prevent costly repairs that would impact residents.