Update on Public Safety Camera System (PSCS) & Survey

On June 18, 2019, City staff updated Council on the Public Safety Camera System (PSCS) and Survey. The 90 Day Pilot program ended on May 31, 2019, and the three high definition cameras were removed.

During the Pilot program, the City learned: 

• Communication with the camera integrators and manufacturers is critical during design and implementation stages; and 
• Having a fiber-optic backbone present to support the video feed is essential to ensure real time transmission and clear optics. 

The recent survey revealed: 

• 65% public approval of the PSCS. 
• 82% of the public reporting they feel safe; and 
• 60.7% of the public think the City was transparent about the PSCS evaluation process.  

The next steps are: 

• Obtain bid(s) for a Phase 1 PSCS including all 52 signalized intersections, select city facilities, public parks and hiking trails. 
• Council consideration of a PSCS governance policies, and a PSCS integrator contract in the Fall of 2019. 
• Council approval to install the Phase 1 Camera system when the citywide fiber project is complete in February of 2020. 
• Continue community outreach and public access opportunities to live video feed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:   What is the purpose of the camera system?
A:   Due to the ever-increasing police services costs, the City is exploring technology options to augment public safety services. The purpose of the camera system is to transmit video to City Hall to improve police, fire, emergency, and traffic management efforts.

Q:   What is the Pilot program?
A:   The pilot program is the viability testing of three (3) high definition camera systems to examine the clarity of video and transmission feed.

Q:   Why a Pilot Program? And how much will it cost?
A:   The upcoming festival season provides an optimal scenario to conduct live testing during an influx of people to the City. There is “no cost” to the City.

Q:   Where will the camera be located?
A:   The camera systems will be installed at separate intersections: Washington St. at Eisenhower Dr., Washington St. at Ave. 52, and Jefferson St. at Ave. 49.

Q:   When is the testing period of the Pilot Program?
A:   The testing period is 90 days from March through May 31, 2019.

Q:   What protects the public from racial profiling or invasion of privacy?
A:   The City drafted a set of policies and procedures to regulate the use of video obtained from the camera system.  Click here to review or print document or contact Anthony Moreno for more information at 760-777-7000.

Q:   Will these cameras be equipped with face recognition and license plate readers?
A:   No, the cameras will not be equipped with facial recognition or license plate readers.

Q:   Can the public view the video feed?
A:   Yes, the public is welcomed to view live video feed during the testing period at City Hall’s lobby during business hours.

Q:   What’s next?
A:   In June 2019, City staff will report the findings from the pilot program to Council.