Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Citywide Camera System originate?
A: On September 20, 2016, an Ad Hoc Committee was established to assess the potential use of public safety camera systems.

Q: Who is in the Ad Hoc Committee?
A: Members of the Committee included representatives from Council, Police, Fire, Emergency Services and City staff.

Q: Has the community been included in the discussion?
A: The Ad Hoc Committee conducted a community survey in February 2017. 714 residents participated and 83% were supportive, 13% were not in support and 3% were undecided or had no opinion. In May 2019, to gain additional resident input and perspectives, Council requested a third-party survey. Probolsky Research was retained to conduct a random sampling methodology survey based on 33 question geared to evaluate public safety and support for a PSCS. Based on responses from 300 randomly selected residents, the survey findings relay: 

• Public safety is a top priority for La Quinta residents
• 82% feel safe in La Quinta
• 39.7% were familiar with the PSCS pilot program
• 65% support a public safety camera system
• 60.7% think the City has been transparent about the PSCS evaluation process.

Q: How many community meetings did City staff have regarding this program?
A: Ad Hoc members hosted multiple meetings with residents to measure community support, engage residents in a 90-Day Pilot Program, request feedback on Policies and Procedures, and answer any questions. In total, there were 32 community meetings and 10 presentations to Council.

• Community Meetings: 4
• Focus Groups: 2
• Presentation to City Commissions: 4
• Pilot Program Presentations: 22
• Presentations to Council: 12

 Q: What is the current status?

A: Phase 1 of the citywide Public Safety Camera System (PSCS) project was completed in August 2021 and the system went live on September 20, 2021. 

At the 2022 City of La Quinta Annual Community Workshop, participants identified Phase 2 of the PSCS as a City priority, and funding was appropriated in the fiscal year (FY)2022/23 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Council authorized use of PSCS Phase 2 funding in August 2022 for the SilverRock Venue Site Wi-Fi and Backbone (Project 2022-18), and in October2022 for the X-Park Public Safety Cameras (Project 2022-23) to expedite the installation of six cameras at this site.   

Q: What are the approved locations for the PSCS?

A: Please click here to view a map of the camera locations 

Q: How can I review the PSCS Policies and Procedures?
A: Please click here to review a copy of the Policies and Procedures approved by Council on March 2, 2021.

Q: How can I have privacy masking placed on my business?
A: Please click here and complete the PSCS Opt-Out Form for Business properties and return with the required attachments to Doug Kinley, dkinley@laquintaca.gov, in the City Manager's office.