Aldermen discuss security cameras for police

Aldermen are considering options for cameras to enhance public safety and aid law enforcement in fighting a rising crime problem.  

During last Tuesday’s meeting, aldermen reviewed proposals from Flock Safety and Wilson Technology for installing cameras in high-crime areas to help with crime prevention and enhance public safety.

“Our biggest issues have been the streets within our community,” said Mayor James A. Young, who lives in West Philadelphia. “I had reservations about putting cameras in the street area, but we had one resident say she would rather feel safe than feel invaded. We want to make sure the cameras are set to visualize what’s going on in the streets.”

Cate Carerrio, representing Flock Safety, presented their camera system, which offers live video solutions designed to complement the city’s existing license plate reader technology. She said that Carthage is currently trialing these cameras and suggested a similar trial run for Philadelphia.

Flock Safety’s system doubles as a storage platform, integrating recorded footage with the city’s existing evidence database. The company offers both solar-powered and hardwired camera options.

Carerrio said that Flock Safety cameras are designed to detect and zoom in on violent activity, automatically sending alerts to the police department for a quick response. The system also allows seamless sharing of footage with the Sheriff’s Department and others during joint operations.

The standard Condor version of Flock Safety’s cameras costs $3,000 per camera annually, plus a one-time installation fee. Solar-powered models are available for $5,000 per camera each year.

Fredrick Wilson, CEO of Wilson Technology, also presented a proposal highlighting their solar cameras, which offer a 180-degree field of view and built-in blue lights. The company also provides hardwired camera options.

Wilson said their 911 integration feature grants dispatchers temporary access to camera feeds during an active call. This access ends once the incident is resolved, and the system includes real-time notifications, with all footage securely stored in the cloud.

Wilson said their cameras can be installed anywhere, and his company provides poles with a 10-year warranty if needed. 

Additionally, the cameras do not require an internet connection, as they come equipped with AT&T and T-Mobile cards. The system can also send instant notifications when someone enters a designated area.

Wilson added that their advanced software, powered by analytics and artificial intelligence, increases law enforcement capabilities. He said that Marion is one of the closest cities to Philadelphia currently using their technology.

Wilson Technology’s pricing includes a $1,100 installation fee and a $300 monthly subscription per camera. Once subscribed, the annual cost per camera would be $2,260 per year. 

Aldermen are considering purchasing between five and 10 cameras and plan to decide between the two companies at their next meeting on Dec. 3.

Neshoba County Sheriff Eric Clark has had success with two license plate readers installed on Highway 16.

In other business, aldermen voted to:

• Approve a motion to approve the health insurance renewal with a 15% increase with Blue Cross Blue Shield and America First as a gap plan presented by Security Insurance. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to approve the resolution to support Vision Neshoba. This resolution commits the city to working with local organizations and stakeholders to implement the plan’s recommendations. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to allow Deputy City Clerk Nicole Henley to attend training in Flowood on Dec. 12 and for the city to pay for registration and travel. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to set a hearing date for Dec. 17 for the rezoning of 207 Everette Avenue from R1 to R3. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to hire Jaylan Carter part-time with the Cemetery Department at $10 per hour pending drug screen. The motion was unanimously approved;

• Approve a motion to finance $144,150 for police vehicles and equipment with the lowest financing with Trustmark at a 4.52% interest rate for three years. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to allow Police Chief Eric Lyons to attend the Chief’s Conference in Oxford from Dec. 9-13 and for the city to pay registration and travel. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to accept the lowest and best quote for the air conditioning project at the Booker T Annex building from Harold Coburn Electric for $8,787 and to proceed with the installation. The higher quote was from A&B Mechanical, which was $10,000. The motion was approved unanimously;

• Approve a motion to close the necessary streets for public safety on Dec. 9 for the Christmas Parade. The motion was approved unanimously.