After previously rejecting the State Government funding offer, the council did a back flip and accepted a $125,000 offer. Then, at a recent meeting, it requested an extra $225,000 for more cameras.
Initial funding assistance was rejected as the pledge only provided for purchase and installation, failing to account for maintenance and monitoring of the equipment.
If the project gets the go-ahead, 17 new cameras will be erected at priority sites in the region. Mayor Ron Brownlee admits that overwhelming community support has provided the impetus for the project. The cameras, which will be set up at several locations around Aspendale and Moorabbin, will not be permanently monitored but will record, with council staff authorised to respond to requests for footage.
CCTV has proved to be an invaluable tool in creating a safe and secure environment for residents around Melbourne. Antisocial behaviour is known to markedly decrease in areas where passive surveillance of hot-spots is carried out. Mayor Brownlee said:
“While CCTVs are not a guaranteed anti-crime measure, we have applied for more as our community overwhelmingly supports their installation.”
A Memorandum of Understanding is being drafted to allow Victoria Police to access footage. The council expects cameras to be operational by the end of 2013. The decision has been a victory for people power, with residents voicing their preference with the help of local news and printing services.