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Resident raises privacy concerns over new Sunset Lake security camera pole
Summary
A Sunset Lake resident objected to a recently installed ~25-foot camera pole, asking whether footage would be monitored 24/7; borough officials said the poles were sited for electrical access, cameras will record continuously but not be actively watched around the clock.
Bernie Balinski, a remote caller who said he lives at 7901 New Jersey Avenue, told the Board of Commissioners he was concerned about “a probably, like, a 25 foot aluminum pole put out directly across the street from my house” that he learned was installed for security cameras. He called the pole “hideous” and asked if the cameras would be live 24 hours a day.
Mayor (presiding official) and the borough police chief responded that vendor siting and existing electrical infrastructure constrained pole locations. The mayor said the cameras are intended for “security for all of that and also liability protection” and the chief clarified that camera systems “will be recording 24 7” but the borough does not have staffing to monitor feeds continuously.
Balinski asked whether poles could be moved to less conspicuous spots; borough officials said markouts, outfall pipes and access to power determined the installations and that the poles are cemented in place. The chief said similar camera infrastructure has been used at the Splash Park for about two years, though the new lakefront poles will not use solar panels.
The exchange concluded with Balinski acknowledging the response and commissioners pointing to the public-safety rationale. The board did not announce any immediate plan to relocate or remove the poles during the meeting.
