Montclair council approves consent calendar including park security cameras with AI monitoring; councilor seeks safeguards

The Montclair City Council approved its consent calendar unanimously, a package that included a contract to install security cameras at Reeder Ranch Park and Sunset Park after a short exchange about monitoring and signage.

Council member Mendez asked whether the cameras would be actively monitored by city staff and whether signage would make the public aware that cameras and analytics were in use. “Are they gonna also be monitored by city staff during the day?” Mendez asked.

City staff responding to the question said the cameras “will be directly connected to the PG police department dispatch” and that dispatch personnel “will be able to see the cameras in real time as well.” Staff also described analytic features built into the cameras: “The AI is built into the camera... if you're wearing a backpack and you're wearing a red shirt, the camera will know where you're going throughout the park... and even if you're loitering... you’ll zoom in into your face and get a clear image.” Staff said signage will be posted in the parks to notify the public.

Mayor Dutre called for a motion on the consent calendar; Council member Lopez moved the consent calendar as presented and Mayor Pro Tem Martinez seconded. The electronic vote was 5‑0 in favor.

Councilors voiced general support for the technology's crime‑prevention potential while asking staff to ensure appropriate public notice. The meeting record shows staff emphasized that there is no expectation of privacy in public spaces and that signage and dispatch access are part of operational plans.