Peace River town council is evaluating costs associated with installing cameras in its downtown core.
The decision was reached at council’s regular meeting in chambers on Jan. 26.
“A while back administration was requested with direction from council to look into installation of cameras in the downtown,” says director of protective services Daniel Cress.
The discussion was brought forward by deputy mayor Brad Carr at an earlier meeting to evaluate the need for a camera system in the downtown core and the pedestrian walkway under the new bridge.
“What I would like to see is the downtown core covered,” says Carr.
“I have spoken to several of the RCMP, and they said it would make their job easier as well.”
Carr says facial recognition and license plate recognition would be two great features on the cameras.
“I think it would be a big deterrent for the crime we’ve been seeing,” says Councillor Orren Ford.
“I would love to see administration move forward with this and do more investigation on pricing and different options as far as license plate readers and technology that goes with this.”
The sentiment was also echoed by Councillor Brandon Dous.
“I would love to see this in the downtown core,” says Councillor Dous.
“I think it’s something we can build on, building out towards the walking trails and the parks.”
Council has directed administration to look at the various options available for surveillance cameras and return to the 2026 budget discussions.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter