City Rolls Out Video Camera Pilot Program in the River District

Earlier this year, Owen Sound Council approved a three-year camera pilot program in the River District, which would include installing 17 cameras over two phases. Phase one of this project has been completed, with nine operational cameras installed late last week.

From a policing perspective, the availability of video surveillance as an investigative tool after a crime can be crucial. The cameras in the River District are designed to:

• Elevate the safety and security of residents and visitors in the River District,
• Contribute to protecting facilities, equipment and assets,
• Aid Owen Sound Police Services in identifying suspects, reconstructing events, and building a case for prosecution

Installing video cameras is not a stand-alone security measure, but their presence can enhance public safety, improve the City's reputation, and potentially boost tourism and business activity in the River District. 

The cameras installed as part of Phase One of this project are located at:

• 8th St E and 2nd Ave E
• 8th St E and 3rd Ave E
• 9th St E and 2nd Ave E
• 9th St E and 3rd Ave E 
• 10th St E and 2nd Ave E 
• 10th St E and 3rd Ave E
• 9th St W and 2nd Ave W
• 10th St W and 2nd Ave W

Phase Two is set to be implemented in 2025, with camera installation locations including:

• 8th St E and 2nd Ave E
• 8th St E and 3rd Ave E
• 9th St E and 2nd Ave E
• 9th St E and 3rd Ave E
• 10th St E and 3rd Ave E
• 10th St E and 4th Ave E
• 11th St E and 2nd Ave E
• 8th St W and 1st Ave W

Cameras are installed on top of existing streetlights, with data storage and transmission infrastructure being cloud-based.

The camera pilot program is funded entirely by the Community Policing Reserve and Cannabis Reserve Funds.

For more information, please contact Tim Simmonds, City Manager, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1210 or email tsimmonds@owensound.ca

Quotes:

"Safety and well-being of our community is always going to be a City priority. Installing these cameras is about more than just security — it's about giving our residents and visitors peace of mind, knowing we're working to create a safer, more welcoming place for everyone, and supporting our City's growth and prosperity, especially in the River District."

- Mayor Ian Boddy

Quick Facts:

• Access to video will take place through the City’s Clerks’ Office in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.  For more information, visit the City’s website here.
• Cameras used for this project were purchased through Liveable Cities, a Canadian-owned and operated clean technology company.
• The three-year pilot program cost will be approximately $90,000, funded entirely through reserves, not taxes.

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