Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Resident urges cameras and patrols at Mako Park after assault, council to meet vendor
Summary
A resident told Columbia Borough Council that vandalism and drug use at Mako Park have driven families away; staff said a camera vendor will meet the borough and estimated three new cameras could cost about $13,000–$15,000.
A resident who identified himself as Scott Frederick pressed Columbia Borough Council on May 12 to boost enforcement and surveillance at Mako Park after describing an attack he said occurred there.
"Replace the cameras and get more police presence down there," Frederick said, urging hourly drive-bys and operational cameras. He recounted being accosted and struck and said grainy footage from existing cameras had been of little use in past incidents.
Borough staff confirmed they are meeting with the camera vendor to identify installation points. "We're looking at maybe adding three total," a staff member said, estimating the price at about $13,000 to $15,000 for the set.
The chief of police noted staffing shortages that affect patrol coverage; the department currently has fewer officers than its target, and the borough is continuing active recruiting and testing for new hires. The chief said an academy class is expected this summer and oral interviews are scheduled for late May.
Council members said they appreciated Parks and Recreation’s recent family events — including a bike rodeo — and framed surveillance and personnel as complementary responses. The council did not authorize funding for camera purchases at the May 12 meeting; staff said the vendor meeting and a follow-up budget discussion would determine next steps.
Council members said the borough will continue to evaluate camera placement and costs before bringing a funding request forward.
