CRIME CAMERAS GET OK

Use of Closed Circuit Television to monitor high-crime areas in
Nelson was unanimously endorsed by the Nelson Police Board on Dec. 15.

The issue was brought to the board for consideration by Police Chief
Dan Maluta at their September meeting. At the time, Maluta was asking
the board to consider having a camera to monitor the bus shelter on
the corner of Ward and Baker Streets, just two blocks from the police
department.

The board asked for more information and time to consider the idea.

When the issue came back to this month's meeting it was accompanied
by a thorough report prepared by the police chief detailing examples
of where CCTV had been used and policy surrounding them.

As well, the recommendation put forward was more general.

It didn't specify a location for the camera to be used, but rather
asked the board to endorse the use of CCTV as a general public safety
measure and to develop policy around it.

"We don't decide where the stop signs go. It's not our role to say
where to put the cameras," said director Ian Mason.

"As a policy piece I don't think we can't not support it as a
potential tool for our policing."

Some of the disadvantages to installing CCTVs that the chief
identified in his report included potential for crime displacement
and the negative public perception of cameras in public areas.

Director Mike McIndoe said in the time since the issue was first
raised with the board, he's had time to discuss the prospect of
cameras with many people in the community.

"It's interesting because those who are most vehemently opposed are
the ones that actually swayed me want to support the issue," he said.
"When I get wind of drug dealers complaining about the police state,
I don't think it's such a bad thing."

But he did agree with many of the comments he heard about it being
sad Nelson would have to use this technology when its traditionally
been viewed as such a safe place to live.

"I hear from people that we live here in no small part because it
isn't Vancouver, it's not London, it's not Kelowna, it's not even
Trail," said McIndoe. "I reluctantly admit this may be the reality of
the day...I'm not real happy with it, but I'll support it because it
should be a tool."

With police board endorsement of CCTV, the police will next need city
council to approve their use.

The police board has planned to earmark $25,000 in its budget to be
used for cameras and infrastructure.

Of this, approximately $4,000 would be needed to put two cameras at
the existing transit transfer station at Ward and Baker Streets.

These cameras could be relocated if crime was displaced from the
corner or with the change of transit stop locations.

Other locations are also being considered for placement of CCTVs.

Maluta noted having them outside of bars or watching an ATM machine
that will be located outside the Nelson Library are also being considered.

"Any cameras we instal will be clearly identified," said Maluta.
"They're never going to replace feet on the street, but if they can
help improve public safety, then they're a good investment."