Bill Matt

Last night at Public Safety and the City Council Meetings Police Chief Mark Alley gave us an update on the proposed camera system. There are policies and procedures now posted on the Lansing Police Department Website (LINK).

The demonstration showed the pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities of the camera mounted and functional at the Arbaugh Building in downtown Lansing at 401 S. Washington Square. It is in the proximity of the liquor store where frequent loitering is a concern.

The chief also mentioned that the camera views would be available via the internet for anyone to look at. The stated purpose for this was so that more eyes could see potential criminal activity taking place, but what I think was the real catalyst for this idea was that by having open and accessible camera viewing, people can be reassured that the cameras are only being used for legitimate police and security purposes. We the people can and will watch the watchers.

Chief Alley also provided us with a map of the locations for the next 10 cameras to be placed. The North side cameras are to be installed in February, and the South side cameras are scheduled for March. A list of the locations was printed in today's LSJ (LINK).

In addition to the public demonstration, I asked Chief Alley about the status of the South Side Communications Tower. He told us that the tower was installed and is being tested. He said both Police and Fire departments were involved in the testing and the tower was performing beyond expectations. That is really great news for our Public Safety departments. After some final tests, the channels will be programmed and we should be seeing less communication "dead spots" in the city and especially on the South side.

Labels: cameras, Chief Mark Alley, Communications Tower, lansing