The City of Battle Creek proposes implementing a ten-camera License Plate Recognition (LPR) system to enhance public safety and law enforcement capabilities. LPR technology uses cameras to capture images of vehicles, extracting and analyzing license plate information in real time.
Potential Benefits:
- Enhanced Crime Prevention: LPR systems can help identify stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and assist in investigations by providing valuable leads.
- Improved Traffic Management: By monitoring traffic patterns and identifying vehicles of interest, LPR can contribute to efficient traffic flow and incident response.
- Increased Public Safety: The presence of LPR cameras can act as a deterrent to criminal activity, promoting a safer environment for residents and visitors.
Cost-Effective Solution: LPR systems offer a long-term investment with potential cost savings through reduced crime rates and improved operational efficiency.
Proposed Implementation:
The City of Battle Creek intends to enter into an initial two-year subscription agreement for the LPR camera system. The specific locations for the cameras will be determined during the implementation process based on factors such as crime hotspots, traffic patterns, and infrastructure considerations. There are cancellation provisions in place. This Resolution allows for annual renewals at reasonable prices along with the ability to purchase more cameras, as needed and as budget allows.
By investing in LPR technology, the City of Battle Creek can leverage advanced surveillance capabilities to improve public safety, enhance law enforcement efforts, and contribute to a more secure community.
The attached memo from Doug Bagwell, Deputy Police Chief, best explains the background of this project and the recommendation to proceed with subscription agreement for License Plate Recognition Cameras from Flock Group, Inc.
The City’s Administrative Code allows exceptions for purchases outside of the competitive sealed bidding process in case of emergency repairs or replacements and when such procedures are deemed unnecessary and burdensome and not in the best interests of the City by the City Manager. This is such a case; however, City Commission approval is required on purchases that exceed $50,000.
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