DES expands contracted security after attacks on guards; environmental cleanup projects advance with state and private partners

The Department of Environmental Services told the City Council the department is proposing a $680,000 net increase in contracted security in next year’s budget to cover additional patrols at high‑need locations and to provide armed contractor presence where legally required.

Why this matters: DES said recent assaults on security staff and recurring safety problems in downtown and park locations forced a reexamination of how the city provides protective services at parks, rec centers and other public facilities. Councilors asked how the city will oversee contractors and whether the city should buy protective vests for its in‑house guards.

Contracted security: Commissioner O'Kansey said the increase largely covers expanded contractor presence around MLK Park and in the East Avenue district, and to maintain coverage at Direct Centers. He said contractor staff can, under state law in some cases, carry weapons and other tools that the city’s unarmed civilian guards do not carry. Superintendent of Security Vince McIntyre said DES meets weekly with contracted security firms, reviews reports and trends, and coordinates with the Rochester Police Department for enforcement matters. McIntyre agreed to provide a written explanation of the complaint process so residents can file…