Thorsby to install security cameras

Published 3:41 pm Tuesday, June 16, 2015

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Security cameras will be installed at Thorsby Town Hall and the Thorsby Annex soon, after approval Monday by the Town Council.

Police Chief Rodney Barnett reported to the council at a regular meeting that he had solicited bids for the installation of a video surveillance system.

Barnett recommended the council approve a bid by Selcom in the amount of $7,459.02 for a seven-camera system that includes surveillance at the two town-owned facilities.

The council approved the bid unanimously.

Councilman Randall Higgins was absent from the meeting.

The surveillance system will be paid for out of the Municipal Court Improvement Fund. Court is held at Thorsby Annex, while court-related functions are performed at Town Hall.

Council members asked Barnett and Town Clerk Crystal Smith whether the fund would be replenished, and they said it would.

“I think it would be money well-spent,” Barnett said.

The two bids submitted for the installation were similar in cost and details, but Barnett said he preferred Selcom’s bid because the system would allow for additional channels to be added in the future, if necessary. Also, Barnett said he was familiar with Selcom because the company has installed a system at Thorsby School.

In other business, the council:

•Heard a presentation from landscape architect Chuck Kelly about plans for the development of a Dearl Hilyer Park, named for the former Thorsby mayor and located between Summit Street and Jones Street behind Dollar General. Mayor Jean Nelson and council members were pleased with the plan, which Kelly called a “first draft” and encouraged officials to share feedback as a next step in the process.

•Announced that the town’s annual July Fourth celebration will be held July 1, beginning with a program at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks at about 8:30 p.m.

•Approved a revised police department policy regarding the employment of officers outside the department. Barnett said a policy revision was recommended by the town’s insurance provider.

•Received an activity report from Barnett.

•Heard from Public Works Director Terry Jackson that the town’s limb truck has been repaired.

•Approved minutes from the June 1 meeting.