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The Syracuse Common Council is exploring the possibility of equipping Code Enforcement inspectors with body cameras. A meeting to discuss this proposal took place on Wednesday (December 4) in the council's chambers at City Hall. The proposed body cameras aim to document property conditions during inspections, provide evidence, and enhance inspector safety in the field.
The idea of using body cameras for Code Enforcement was first considered in early 2023 after Mayor Ben Walsh issued an executive order allowing residents to provide input on the use of surveillance technology by city departments. According to the CNY Central report, the cameras would serve as a tool for transparency and accountability.
The Neighborhood Preservation Committee, which focuses on issues related to housing and homelessness, is leading the discussions on this initiative. The committee is considering the benefits of body cameras, such as improving the accuracy of inspection reports and protecting inspectors from potential disputes.
The use of body cameras is part of a broader effort by the city to ensure that surveillance technologies are used responsibly and with public oversight. The Syracuse Surveillance Technology Executive Order outlines policies for the safe and well-governed use of such technologies.
The proposal is still in the discussion phase, and further meetings are expected to determine the feasibility and implementation of body cameras for Code Enforcement inspectors.