Security Camera Purchase for the Mounds View Community Center 2-14-2005

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Item No. 8E Meeting Date: February 14, 2005 Type of Business: CA WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing; CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business City Administrator Review _______ City of Mounds View Staff Report To: Honorable Mayor and City Council From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6458 Approving the Purchase of Security Surveillance Cameras for the Mounds View Community Center Background: In 2002, due to concerns about vandalism, theft, disorderly conduct and other issues at the Mounds View Community Center, Staff was asked to explore options involving installation of video monitoring equipment. On March 25, 2002, the City Council approved Resolution No. 5723 authorizing the purchase of video surveillance equipment at the Mounds View Community Center. A contract in the amount of $6,636.00 was awarded to Electronic Security Specialists. The contract included four cameras (1 color, 3 B&W), and a digital video recording system with two monitors. The contract also included installation and all of the necessary supplies and training. The system was installed in May of 2002. Discussion: The security surveillance system at the Mounds View Community Center has been an asset to the City. It has first, and foremost, proven to be a deterrent to a variety of behavioral problems at the center. It has also provided the City a means to identify the sources and or causes of these problems. Mechanically the system has functioned without failure since its installation three years ago and has proven to be reliable and cost effective. There are some shortcomings to the current security surveillance system. The four-camera system works well for the areas that it covers. However, there are vital areas that are not covered. Currently, two cameras are mounted in the gymnasium. This has proven to be adequate for that space. The remaining two cameras are located in the large main commons area and the recreation area. With only two cameras to cover these large areas, including hallways and the front desk, has proven to be problematic. There have been several instances of individuals crawling or jumping over the desk and stealing personal articles, money and electronic gear