The effectiveness of CCTV cameras in public places around the municipality has one councillor putting forth a motion to see if it is worth getting more.
Ward 1 councillor Melissa Harrigan put forth a notice of motion at the April 7 council meeting for council members to vote on creating a report about the benefits, costs, and legalities surrounding more CCTV cameras.
Chatham-Kent installed CCTV cameras as part of a pilot project back in 2020. With the success of that program, in 2024, CK police installed more CCTV cameras in downtown areas across Chatham-Kent.
The cost of the additional 35 cameras was said to be $989,315 over the next five years, with capital costs funded through Strategic Reserves. Currently, there are 171 CCTV cameras in use around Chatham-Kent.
In her motion, Harrigan noted that public spaces not currently under CCTV surveillance are experiencing vandalism and petty crime, which creates costs and affects their enjoyment and use. The police have proven the use of CCTV footage to aid in investigations, most recently with an assault that occurred on April 1.
Harrigan would want the report to also find funding options that could help cover the costs of the new cameras, as the pilot project back in 2020 had secured some funding from the Ontario CCTV Grant Program.
Harrigan’s motion will go before council at their next meeting on Monday, April 28.
