Glen Carbon approves body cam purchase
By Kathy Turner
The Federal SAFE-T Act requires that all police departments equip officers with Body Camera units by January 1, 2025. The Glen Carbon Board on Tuesday, March 28 assured that their police department will be ready well before that deadline.
The Board unanimously approved the purchase of 28 AXON body worn cameras bundled with tasers. The decision to purchase the AXON package came after a very detailed search for the cameras that will best serve the department. AXON makes and services not only body cams but also tasers which no other company does. They also provide cameras that are automatically triggered by the holster, the lights and/or the sirens, assuring the cameras will activate when the officer is in action.
AXON is also the company used by the EVIDENCE.COM portal, which is used by the Madison County State’s Attorney for all video evidence. The system uses cloud storage to assure that all video is available.
AXON also produces in-car cameras but the SAFE-T Act does not require in-car cameras. The Glen Carbon police department already utilizes in-car cameras and will consider the superior AXON cameras in future budget years to maximize compatibility.
The AXON Body Worn Cameras, supporting equipment, and maintenance comes at a total cost of nearly $457,000. The cost will be spread over the next five years. This year’s expenditure will be $113,414, with four consecutive years at $85,887 each. It is very likely that state grant funds will become available to the department to help with the cost.
Mayor Marcus announced early in the meeting that there are still seven community garden sites available. These sites can be used by residents to plant and harvest garden vegetables for personal use. Residents can visit the village website for applications and additional information.
In other action, the board authorized the application to Madison County for Park Commission grant funds. The total request will be for $69,385. This will fund the purchase of ten trash receptacles and six BBQ grills for Miner’s Park. It will also fund installation of an aeration fountain at Ray M. Schon Memorial Park as well as the electrical improvements and clean-up of the lake to support the installation.
The final section plan for the new Plaza Tire construction was also approved. Plaza Tire will open a new facility in the Orchard Town Center. It will be located near the intersection of Governors Parkway and Plum Street.
Finally, the board approved an ordinance authorizing a special use permit for the Red Hill Church. The Church will use the property located at 22 Kettle River Drive for services on Sundays.
The next meeting of the board will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 11.
