Bridgeton City Council has approved a significant upgrade to the security system at City Hall, which will enhance safety and surveillance capabilities for the community. During the meeting on November 6, 2024, the council discussed a proposal to replace 42 existing cameras and add 11 new ones, including advanced outdoor models equipped with pan-tilt-zoom features and 360-degree coverage.

The new cameras will be strategically placed around City Hall to monitor high-traffic areas, particularly in response to increased public activity, such as family exchanges mandated by court orders. The project, which has been in the planning stages for several months, involved collaboration with the police department and engineering consultants to determine optimal camera placements.

City officials highlighted the competitive bidding process, which revealed a wide price range among contractors. The lowest bid was approximately $34,000, while the highest reached $92,000. Concerns about the discrepancies prompted further investigation into the bids, revealing that the higher bids included unnecessary costs and excessive labor hours for tasks that could be streamlined.

The council expressed confidence in the selected contractor, TSI, which has experience with similar retrofits in existing structures. The project is expected to commence soon, as the necessary materials, including CAT 6 cable, are readily available, and the cameras are already on-site.

In addition to the security upgrades, council members praised the work of Tom, the city’s technology specialist, who has been instrumental in the project. His efforts include customizing some camera features and utilizing 3D printing for specific components, showcasing the city's commitment to modernizing its technology.

This initiative not only aims to bolster security at City Hall but also reflects the council's dedication to enhancing public safety and adapting to the evolving needs of the community. The council anticipates that the installation will be completed swiftly, allowing for improved surveillance capabilities in the near future.