Franklin County officials are exploring a shift in their security camera system to reduce ongoing costs and enhance local control. During a recent workshop with the 9-9-25 Commission, discussions highlighted the county's dissatisfaction with the current licensing fees, which amount to $27,000 monthly. Officials expressed a desire to move away from these recurring expenses by developing their own security system.

The current setup, which relies on external manufacturers for maintenance and support, has been criticized for being designed to create dependency on costly services. Officials believe that by investing in their own system, they can not only save money but also ensure that necessary security measures, including advanced video capabilities, are maintained.

The conversation also touched on the financial implications of upgrading to newer technology, with estimates for modern systems, including facial recognition capabilities, being significantly lower than past expenditures. For instance, the previous investment for cameras and access control equipment was around $225,000, while current options are available for approximately $40,000.

The meeting concluded with a call for more community engagement, suggesting that future workshops could be held in various locations throughout the county to ensure broader participation. This initiative aims to address residents' questions and concerns directly, fostering a more transparent and responsive local government.

As Franklin County moves forward with these discussions, the focus remains on balancing budgetary constraints with the need for effective security solutions that serve the community's interests.