By Corey Fischer

Surveillance Cameras Planned For Park

Mar 13, 2018 | 6:00 AM

Vernon will see if video surveillance can make Polson Park safer.

City council has approved spending $35,000 to add a camera surveillance system in the park which will be monitored by bylaws staff.

The plan is to install 11 cameras around the park.

Councillor Juliette Cunningham says the cameras have been shown to deter criminal activity in other areas.

“The more eyes and ears, I guess the better. I mean if it makes people feel safer, that’s not a bad thing,” says Cunningham.

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Mayor Akbal Mund says system should be in place by the summer, and is aimed at improving safety and security.

“I think it gives the residents a safer feeling in the park. I know we don’t have the homeless people camping there anymore, but that doesn’t mean crime isn’t going to happen in the park,” Mund told CJIB News.

Councillor Scott Anderson says he’s against public surveillance at any level, but says this is a necessary evil.

“We’re in a situation where we have a transient problem during the summer. I hope the fact there are cameras there, deters some behaviours that may not be good.”

Contracts have also been awarded for video surveillance of the Parkade and Civic Washroom.

Signage will also be installed to let people know about the surveillance.

by Corey Fischer