South Bend Council Reviews Ordinance for Police Body Camera Fee Structure

The South Bend Common Council convened on July 28, 2025, to discuss a proposed ordinance concerning fees associated with accessing police body camera footage. This meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance transparency in law enforcement while addressing the logistical challenges of fulfilling public records requests.

The primary focus of the discussion was the proposed fee schedule for accessing body camera footage, which has been a topic of contention in recent years. Council members sought clarification on how this ordinance aligns with similar measures passed by St. Joseph County and other municipalities. It was noted that no local governments had rejected such ordinances, indicating a trend towards standardizing fees across the region. The proposed ordinance features a fee structure that charges a flat hourly rate for video review, differing slightly from the county's step-up fee system.

Council members expressed concerns regarding the timing of the ordinance's introduction, particularly in relation to the upcoming budget season. Some questioned why the police department had not included funding for these fees in their budget requests over the past seven years, suggesting that the sudden need for a fee structure could indicate a lack of foresight in planning.

Sandra Kennedy, the corporation counsel for South Bend, explained that the ordinance had been in development for two years, primarily due to the backlog of public records requests and the need for a more efficient process. She emphasized the importance of transparency and the city’s commitment to fulfilling public requests while managing the associated costs.

The discussion also touched on the implications of the proposed fees for community members seeking access to police footage. Some council members argued that the fees could deter individuals from requesting important records, while others maintained that it was reasonable to charge for the resources required to process these requests. The ordinance aims to streamline the request process by encouraging individuals to specify the footage they need, potentially reducing the burden on city staff.

As the meeting progressed, public input was invited, with members of the community given the opportunity to voice their opinions on the proposed ordinance. The council's decision-making process will continue as they weigh the feedback received against the need for transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.

In conclusion, the South Bend Common Council's discussions reflect a broader trend towards enhancing transparency in policing while navigating the complexities of public records management. The outcome of this ordinance could set a precedent for how similar requests are handled in the future, balancing the needs of the community with the operational realities of law enforcement agencies. The council is expected to deliberate further on the ordinance, with a focus on ensuring that it serves the best interests of both the public and the city’s resources.