Neelin to get an angle on cameras

BARRIE - Having presented an overview of how other municipalities implemented security cameras, Police Chief Mark Neelin was given the go ahead to study the reactions and implications of a similar project in Barrie.

“He is to consult with interested organizations and agencies to prepare a report for the board to consider,” said board chair Doug Jure, who describes Neelin’s mandate as determining the city’s support level, what role the cameras would play, as well as the associated costs, liability and privacy issues.

“He certainly must consult with the (Downtown Barrie) BIA and the Downtown Barrie Neighbourhood Association, but he’s open to consult with others who many have an interest in this.”

Neelin’s previous report, which was presented to the board Tuesday afternoon, surveyed camera programs in seven other Ontario municipalities. Each city adopted a different model.

Sudbury, for example, has had 10 security cameras operating since 1996. Communications staff and civilian volunteers at the Greater Sudbury Police Service monitor them. The local Lion’s Club funds this initiative, Neelin reported.

Hamilton’s 15 cameras, however, are funded by the city, with the police paying for the monitoring – which is done by the service’s duty officers from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Activity outside that period is recorded only.

Neelin also gathered varying data from London, Thunder Bay, Windsor, Cornwall and Sturgeon Falls.

“So in a lot of ways, we’re on our own with this,” said Jure.

Neelin is expected to report back to the board with the results of his second survey at the Sept. 21 regular meeting. The public is welcome to attend the 4:30 p.m. meeting, which is held at the police station on Sperling Drive.

“I believe it’s something that’s worth looking into,” said the chief, who hasn’t yet decided on a structure for the community consultation. “There are some issues to be worked out.”

The Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario has produced guidelines to help municipalities develop a policy.

“Government organizations are considering the implementation of video surveillance technology with increasing frequency for the purposes of general law enforcement and public safety programs,” according to the commissioner’s report. “In limited and defined circumstances, video surveillance cameras may be appropriate to protect public safety, detect or deter, and assist in the investigation of criminal activity.”

Although privacy issues are on the list of issues the chief intends to investigate, he says he has an open agenda at this point.

“We have a feel for what other municipalities are doing, and now we are having a look at what the potential Barrie situation could be,” he said.

Neelin suggests interested organizations monitor the police website (www.police.barrie.on.ca) for public-meeting notices.