BET budget committee approves $9,810 for police information network

The BET budget committee on Tuesday approved a $9,810 Police Department purchase to subscribe to a Police Information Network (PIN) platform, funded from asset‑forfeiture and related grant accounts.

Captain Patrick Smith, introduced by the chair, said the PIN will provide officers with a consolidated platform for information sharing, safety alerts, departmental memos and training modules. "It will transform GPD supporting officers, the administration, strengthen accountability, and allow for better communication and services to the residents of Greenwich in both crime prevention and public safety," he told the committee.

Committee members pressed for details about the funding source, recurring licensing costs and cybersecurity. Captain Smith said the payment will come from equitable‑sharing and related federal and state funds and a 911 grant. When asked about ongoing subscription costs, he said the annual license would be approximately $9,360 going forward and that the first year purchase covers implementation. "This is for the year and then there'll be the yearly subscription of just that 9,360 going forward," he said. Joe reported that the combined balance across the three accounts was $263,000, which the presenters said was sufficient to cover the appropriation.

On the public interface, presenters said the dashboard will publish crime statistics with a one‑day delay to protect privacy and will not display precise addresses. The system has been reviewed by Tom Klein and his staff; presenters said they will continue coordination with IT to address cybersecurity concerns.

After questions, the committee voted to approve the PD6 request. The appropriation was moved by Mr. Fischer and seconded; the committee recorded the motion as carried. The committee noted that recurring subscription costs will be absorbed into the Police Department operating budget going forward.