Pubdate: Wed, 15 Apr 2015
Source: Montreal Gazette (CN QU)
Copyright: 2015 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact:  http://www.montrealgazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/274
Author: Albert Kramberger
Page: D2

SECURITY CAMERAS TO BE SET UP IN STE-ANNE PARK

Following up on suggestions from Montreal police, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue
will be installing security cameras at Harpell Park in an effort to
discourage drug deals and mischief.

On Monday, town council authorized spending $15,000 for the purchase
of security cameras to be installed at the park adjacent to the
municipal library, community centre and an outdoor pool, just south of
Highway 20.

Mayor Paola Hawa said aside from the advice of police, some residents
also have brought up concerns about loitering and drug transactions at
Harpell Park.

"It's outside of our community centre where there are kids and there's
the pool where everyone hangs out," she said. "It was not the best
situation. Though it has quieted down the past couple of years," she
added. "Police were watching the place, which is why it had quieted
down. It's cleaned up a lot but we think we are better safe than
sorry. It is an area were families congregate."

A sign warning people there is a security camera system in place will
be posted at the park.

The town already deploys security cameras as a deterrent at Aumais
Park in its north sector. The cameras were installed after repeated
incidents of vandalism.

Last fall, the town tabled an action plan dealing with late-night
security issues in the village strip but opted not to install security
cameras along Ste-Anne Street. While crowds flock to this village area
and its boardwalk, especially during the summer months, Hawa said it
wasn't deemed necessary to have cameras installed.

"You have to do that balancing of people's right to privacy versus
security," she said. "It's not black or white. Sometimes you have to
say, as long as people are aware that cameras are there and in this
specific area (of Harpell Park) where there are kids and families, and
we know we've had drug issues before, well maybe in this case the
right to security possibly trumps the minute effect on the right to
privacy."

Station 1 Commander Sebastien de Montigny said while police may have
recommended these security cameras, the system will be managed and
operated by the town.

"The cameras could help with loitering. It will also help raise the
feeling of security for residents and the users of the park," he said.
"It will also prevent mischief and maybe drug dealing after hours,
when the park closes."

The cameras could also be used to pinpoint ongoing problems and help
police with their prevention efforts, de Montigny said.
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MAP posted-by: Matt