Packwood thinks safety, considers security cameras

Safety, rather than vandalism, is the driving force behind Packwood City Council?s consideration of security cameras.

?For the last couple months, we?ve been talking about cameras on the park out of concern for child abduction,? Packwood Mayor Dave Dickey said. ?We?ve not had any problems. It?s just a precautionary measure.?

The proposal is to mount cameras aimed at Friendship Park, located at the south end of Main Street, on the fire station for around-the-clock surveillance.

?That?s where kids get on and off the bus,? Dickey said, estimating 25 to 30 students board and disembark the bus there each school day.

The idea was brought to the council by Jennifer Coleman, a member of the Pekin school board. Dickey said the council and the community members he?s spoken with have been receptive.

It?s likely the council will proceed with a fundraising campaign in the next couple months, he said.

?I think it sometimes does the community good to work together on a project like this,? Dickey said.

He estimates the cameras will cost $1,000 to $1,200.