Winchester Considers Small Increase to Speeding Fines to Offset State Costs

WINCHESTER, Tenn. — Winchester officials are considering a modest increase in speeding-ticket fines to offset rising costs passed down from the state level. The proposal was discussed during a Nov. 4 work session of the Winchester City Council, where City Administrator Beth Rhoton recommended raising the fine from $120 to $125.

Rhoton emphasized that the proposed increase is not designed to generate revenue but simply to cover additional state-imposed expenses. “We don’t want to take from us to give more to the state,” she said. “I think we need to consider an increase.”

Police Chief Ritchie Lewis supported the adjustment, noting that Winchester’s speeding fines remain lower than those in surrounding communities—even with a $5 increase. For comparison, Cowan assesses a $158.75 fine for traveling 15 mph over the speed limit, while Tullahoma charges $180.75, Estill Springs $184.50, and Decherd $177.50 for similar violations.

Rhoton told the council that the change is minimal in impact and stressed that speeding fines are not a major revenue source. Winchester typically receives just $6,000 to $10,000 per year from speeding citations. Chief Lewis added that officers typically allow drivers some leniency—up to about 10 mph over the posted limit—before issuing tickets. Even so, council members agreed that maintaining reasonable enforcement helps keep roads safe.

“If somebody does something wrong, we want that taken care of,” Rhoton said. “But we don’t want a speed trap.”

The proposal will be further reviewed before any formal action is taken by the council.

Stay informed and stay connected to 931GO.com and ESPN Radio Winchester.