[Southsider2k12]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?Sectio...amp;TM=52463.45

Are crime cameras really worth it?

Joseph Malan
The News-Dispatch

MICHIGAN CITY - Mary Helms pays a visit to Michigan City a few times each month from New Buffalo, Mich. Every time she comes here, she doesn't like to be out any time it's dark.

"Especially late at night," said Helms, 82. "You never know what you're going to run in to."

That's why Helms is one of several Michigan City area residents in favor of security cameras being installed at crime "hot spots" in the city.

Police Chief Ben Neitzel recently said the cameras may soon become a reality, based on money the department is scheduled to receive from a grant called the Byrne Grant. Last year, the department received $6,000. This year, however, $100,000 more is available for the department to use.

"It's more than we've ever received before," Neitzel said.

With that amount of extra money, most may be used to purchase security cameras that would be set up in some parts of town, similar to what has been done in Chicago, he said.

The department has made a list of areas where crime is high, but Neitzel has not yet narrowed down the exact areas the cameras would be used.

"We will do this statistically," he said, "(Crime areas) tend to shift."

Like Helms, Charlie Sass, 41, of Michigan City, believes any cameras will go a long way in helping him and other residents feel safer.

"I don't think it's a bad idea," he said. "I think if they were installed, some businesses (along East Michigan Boulevard) would be more apt to stay."

Mary Bell, 58, owner of Mary's County Kitchen on East Michigan Boulevard, echoed Sass' belief that businesses like hers would be more secure if the cameras were utilized.

"Once it gets dark, this area just dies," she said. "I just think the public in general are afraid (of this area)."

Unlike Bell, Helms and Sass, however, Jerry Dirks, also of Michigan City, believes the cameras will be a waste of money.

"I don't think the cameras are gonna do (the crime rate) any justice," said Dirks, 58, as he sipped on a cup of coffee at Mary's. "The money could be going to the homeless. Why not use the money toward a new police department?"

Besides being a waste of money, Dirks said he was afraid of his privacy being violated by the constant watch of the cameras.

Willie Milsap, councilman of the city's fifth ward, said residents shouldn't be worried about their privacy being violated.

"If you're not doing anything wrong, there shouldn't be a concern," he said. "For people who live in the immediate area of those hot spots, it's nice to know our police department has the tools to lower crime in that hot spot."

Milsap is 100 percent in support of the security devices.

"We have one of the most aggressive police departments in northern Indiana," he said. "To be effective for the community, there's certain tools that are necessary for them to do their job. Those cameras are one of those tools.

"It's crucial our city get those tools and put them in the hands of our police department, so they can enhance the safety of our community," Milsap said.

[Southsider2k12]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?Sectio...amp;TM=47208.89

Council OKs tax abatement, police cameras

Laurie Wink
The News-Dispatch

MICHIGAN CITY - The Michigan City Council voted unanimously Tuesday evening to approve a tax abatement for a major local employer, to accept a grant on behalf of the police department and to recommend waving city fees for a charitable organization.

The council approved a tax abatement for a $500,000 expansion of the Consolidated Biscuit Company, 502 W. Highway 20 in Michigan City. According to council member Marc Espar, who proposed the action, the company needs to change its facility in order to keep its contract with Kraft Foods. Known locally as Michigan City Baking, the company employs 187 workers and has a $4.9 million payroll.

The council OK'd a resolution, introduced by council member Angie Nelson, to create an account for the $106,831 grant received by the Michigan City Police Department of upgrade its mobile data canopy system. The 2009 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant will be used to purchase security cameras that will be posted in what the police call "hot spots" in an effort to promote public safety.

Also, the council voted to recommend the Plan Commission waive city construction fees on behalf of the La Porte County Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization that will build homes at 209 and 212 Willard Ave.

"This is a traditional courtesy we've been doing for not-for-profits," said council member Ron Meer, who introduced the resolution. "It's a contribution the city makes."

[IndyTransplant]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?Sectio...amp;TM=52463.45

I believe an even better investment by this city would be in adding better and more street lights in many areas (especially along 35, Wabash, Washington and 12) where businesses exist and tourists drive and walk. I am new here , but this is one of the darkest cities I have ever lived in and lights would help create a sense of safety, provide more security and make the city seem more cheerful. I am not sure cameras along some of those areas will even be able to pick up pictures since the areas are so dark. Overall Franklin has adequate lighting due to street lights and the many businesses with lights. However the other areas of the city are pretty dark.