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Letter to the editor

Vacation is over: 15 Mph school zones are back

By Times Staff Writer
Published January 6, 2008

St. Petersburg

The school year resumes Monday after two weeks of vacation, and we all need to be reminded of a few things about safety - and our wallets.

School zones are back. Please drive cautiously, keeping in mind that police patrol these zones for speed violators morning and afternoon. If you don't obey the 15 mph limit in a school zone, here is the bad news:

- 6-9 mph over the 15 mph limit results in a fine of $110.50.

- 10-14 mph over is $260.50.

- 15-19 mph over is $310.50. So if you drive 35 mph in a school zone, the normal speed limit on most roads in St. Petersburg, you'll receive a fine of $360.50. Anyone caught going 45 mph or higher in a school zone receives a mandatory court appearance and a stiffer fine.

And don't forget the points on your license and increased insurance premiums.

Attendance

School attendance is mandatory for children ages 6 to 16, and parents are held responsible. If parents need help, they can contact the South County Truancy Interdiction Center at (727) 502-0151, or visit the Web site at www.stpetepal.org.

The interdiction center, funded by the Juvenile Welfare Board, works with St. Petersburg police, Police Athletic League, the School Board and Family Resources. The center helps students and parents comply with mandatory attendance. If you see school-age children loitering during the school day, report them by calling police at (727) 893-7780. An officer will take them to the interdiction center. A specialist will work with the student and parents.

William Proffitt, St. Petersburg police spokesman

[Last modified January 5, 2008, 20:10:53]