By Neil Doyle
BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington Police Department rolled out a proposal to the city council Monday night for its officers to wear body cameras that would cost taxpayers about three-quarters of a million dollars over the next five years.
The BPD hopes alderman will approve a five-year plan to implement Axon 2 body-worn cameras at a cost of $753,583. The department is asking for 100 body cameras, 37 in-car Axon systems and application devices that work with the equipment.
BPD staff said the Axon equipment would save time and money compared to other body camera solutions.
Chief Clay Wheeler said the department wants to do all it can to provide a safe community.
“Body cameras are proving to be an essential tool in preserving evidence in crucial events and equipment also helps ensure the trust given to us by the community is earned,” said Chief Wheeler.
Axon would cost $174,079 in year one of the agreement. It would then drop to $144,876 for the remaining four years of the contract.
An endorsement for the body-worn cameras came from Art Taylor, chairman of the city’s Public Safety and Community Relations Boards.
City Manager Tim Gleason said action on the proposal is expected at the November 26 meeting.
Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]
