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Jacksonville Beach CRA adopts safety-grant program for cameras, metal detectors and other security upgrades
Summary
The Jacksonville Beach Community Redevelopment Agency voted unanimously to adopt a new safety-grant program that will reimburse businesses for security equipment up to $10,000 or 80% of project cost, and requires funded systems to be kept operational for a multiyear period.
The Jacksonville Beach Community Redevelopment Agency on Jan. 15 approved a new safety-grant program to help downtown businesses install security cameras, metal detectors, identification scanners and other safety equipment.
CRA staff said the program will reimburse businesses up to $10,000 or 80% of the eligible project cost, whichever is less. The agency also added a maintenance requirement: recipients must keep funded systems in working order for a multiyear period and provide proof of repair if the systems fail.
Taylor (CRA staff) outlined the proposed application and program mechanics, saying applicants will complete a pre-application meeting with staff and the police department and must obtain any required building permits. "All security cameras have to be accessible to Jacksonville Beach Police Department when deemed necessary," Taylor told the board, adding the CRA will withhold payment until installations are inspected and signed off.
Tom Sterling, identified as detective-division manager for the Jacksonville Beach Police Department, said the department will work with businesses on compliance and that maintenance checks will be necessary. "They would be obligated to a certain extent under the defense section of that agreement," Sterling said of the maintenance and access provisions.
Board members discussed the program ceiling and how the incentive budget will cover awards. Gary (board member) reiterated a prior suggestion to cap camera awards at $10,000 and noted that the CRA will require applicants to provide contact information so the police can coordinate follow-up checks. The board agreed staff will report back on program uptake and budget impacts before the next fiscal cycle.
By voice and roll call the board approved the program, with all members voting in favor. Staff said the safety grant will draw from the CRA incentives line item already budgeted for fiscal year 2025 and that staff will monitor demand and recommend adjustments during the next budget cycle.
