Renfrew’s by-law services could be required to wear a new piece of equipment, depending on what happens on Tuesday, March 18th.
The town’s Fire, Emergency, and Protective Services Committee will sit in for a discussion on an official body-worn camera policy that will establish the rules and guidelines on the use of the equipment, including notification prior to recording and management of the data.
In the agenda for the upcoming meeting, town staff say the role of municipal by-law officers “has become increasingly crucial in maintaining public safety” and upholding community standards.
They add that body-worn cameras have become a valuable tool in improving transparency, accountability, and professionalism while also providing valuable evidence and increasing public safety, adding that the “footage from body-worn cameras can be invaluable in resolving disputes, corroborating accounts, and ensuring the accuracy of incident reports.”
Video evidence can provide an impartial record of an incident in cases where enforcement actions are challenged or contested.
Acting Treasurer Charlene Jackson notes in the motion that the body cameras are already purchased, which means that their use hinges squarely on
If the motion passes, it will head to the next gathering of town council for final approval.
(written by Kasey Egan)