Cable 15 live-cam and ‘Southfield Solutions’ app promoted as new ways for residents to connect with city services

Southfield — City staff and Cable 15 representatives on Oct. 27 demonstrated two digital initiatives intended to increase resident access to city spaces and services.

Cable 15 live camera: Cable 15 Technical Services described a live YouTube camera focused on the Great Lawn and promenade. Staff said the feed drew 3,000 views in its first month and has driven dozens of new subscribers to the channel. Producer and director Gary Watts was credited for developing the live cam and a digitization program to preserve historic city photos and film; Cable 15 said it will add an on‑screen information feed and hopes to expand a second live cam to the new dog park.

Southfield Solutions: City staff demonstrated Southfield Solutions, the city’s online program and smartphone app for reporting non‑emergency issues and service requests. The app maps problems using device GPS, allows photo uploads, routes requests to the appropriate department and notifies requesters by text, email or in‑app message if they opt in. Staff said the app helps reduce lost calls and provides a record of response progress, and that common miscategorization prompts are used to improve the interface.

Council comment: Council members praised the initiatives and requested continued staff collaboration with community groups and the chamber to amplify ribbon cuttings and events through those channels.

What’s next: Staff said they will add an information ticker to the live cam feed and continue outreach to increase takeup of the Southfield Solutions app.