City Council approves Flock camera trailer lease using opioid settlement funds

The City of Sunnyside held a council meeting on June 12, 2025, focusing on public safety initiatives and the allocation of opioid settlement funds. A significant discussion centered around the approval of a one-year lease for a mobile flock camera security trailer, aimed at enhancing surveillance in areas with high drug-related incidents, particularly near local hotels.

Police Chief presented the proposal, emphasizing the need for improved monitoring capabilities to address ongoing drug issues and overdose deaths in the community. The trailer, which will be mobile and can be deployed at various locations, is expected to cost $24,000, funded through the city’s opioid settlement funds. Chief noted that the funds, totaling approximately $200,000, have been underutilized, and this expenditure aligns with the city’s efforts to combat drug-related problems.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance public safety. Questions arose regarding the lease's terms, including auto-renewal policies and the possibility of acquiring additional trailers in the future. The council ultimately voted unanimously in favor of the lease agreement.

In addition to the camera trailer, the council also approved a resolution to engage with Lexipol Academy for an online training platform for public safety personnel, also funded by opioid settlement money. This platform will provide access to a wide range of training courses, including those specifically addressing opioid-related issues, ensuring that all officers receive necessary training to handle situations involving opioids effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue utilizing opioid settlement funds for initiatives that directly address the community's pressing public safety concerns. The council's proactive approach reflects a broader strategy to enhance law enforcement capabilities while addressing the ongoing opioid crisis in Sunnyside.