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Decatur OKs $204,764 contract for 19 downtown security cameras; policy and placement discussed
Summary
The commission approved a $204,764.17 contract with Johnson Controls to add 19 security cameras in the downtown business district and set a $215,000 project budget. Police described prior camera successes and limited access protocols; commissioners asked about locations, procurement and privacy safeguards.
Chief Scott Richards presented a proposal to expand the city’s downtown camera network with 19 additional fixed cameras installed at key intersections. The contract with Johnson Controls Security Solutions LLC was presented at a cost of $204,764.17; staff recommended a $215,000 project budget to cover contingencies. Funding is available in the FY25‑26 Capital Improvement Fund.
Richards said camera locations were selected based on crime trends, traffic activity and incident history; examples from the existing 11‑camera system include investigative leads for smash‑and‑grab burglaries, a hit‑and‑run incident and an arson investigation. Cameras are not actively monitored by staff; access to footage is limited to detectives and designated supervisors under the department’s policy.
Commissioners and members of the public asked for a shareable map of camera locations, clarification about privacy and access controls, and procurement details. Staff said procurement used Sourcewell cooperative purchasing and Johnson Controls was chosen for equipment compatibility (the company already provides access control and building security services for city buildings) and to reduce vendor complexity encountered on earlier deployments; staff also noted a one‑year warranty and no anticipated recurring service charges. Deputy Chief Woodruff (project manager) said early deployment had initial vendor coordination issues but existing cameras now are functioning.
The commission voted to approve the contract and project budget. Staff will finalize installation schedules and return to the capital program as required for project reporting.
