Lexington’s city council is considering upgrading security at area parks. It was a topic of discussion during last week’s committee meeting.
There are currently about 50 security cameras at Lexington Parks and Recreation facilities. Police Lieutenant Mike Wright says cameras can have an effect on crime in any given area. “It may lower the property crime at that location where the camera is, but citywide stats, it may just displace it to where the cameras aren’t,” said Wright.
Police Chief Mark Barnard says studies indicate security cameras in parks may not necessarily prevent crime, but he says they can be helpful by recording activities that may be useful as material evidence.
Council member Amanda Mays-Bledsoe is hesitant about relying on cameras for security. “I get very nervous about the privacy issue in the 18 and under group, putting cameras in park in general,” explained Mays-Bledsoe.
Mays-Bledsoe says increasing police patrols is another option. Parks and Recreation Director Monica Conrad suggested the item be given more study, possibly by a designated task force.?
