RICHLAND, Wash. – The City of Richland is deploying mobile security camera units at some local parks and landmarks as a part of a year-long pilot program.
The deployment is meant to address increased incidents of street racing, gang activity, vandalism, illegal dumping and theft, according to the City of Richland.
According to the city, the camera units will be deployed at Claybell Park, Badger Mountain Community Park and the Uptown Shopping Center City-owned lot.
The units are “Advanced, solar-powered mobile cameras equipped with real-time monitoring technology.”
The video footage captured by the cameras is managed by the City policy, which restricts access to the authorized personnel, limits retention to about 30 days unless needed for investigations and ensures footage is only released as required by the law.
The City said that its goal is to use the technology responsibly and to maintain public trust while enhancing security.
The project requires collaborations between several city departments.
“Leveraging technology to protect our community is a priority. These mobile surveillance units represent Richland’s commitment to identifying innovative solutions that keep our public spaces safe and welcoming,” City Manager Jon Amundson said.
“These cameras can serve as a vital deterrent to criminal activity and provide critical evidence to help us identify and hold offenders accountable, ultimately making our community safer for everyone,” Chief of Police Marty Pilcher said.
“The Parks & Public Facilities Department values this partnership with Richland Police and the efforts taken to reduce crime and enhance the safety and enjoyment for all residents and visitors. The deployment of temporary security cameras is one of several measures being implemented to achieve this goal, along with a current proposal to reduce park hours of operation,” Parks and Public Facilities Director Chris Waite added.
If the year-long program is successful, the city plans to consider making the units a permanent feature and to expand them to additional locations.
