$15,000 Approved for Police Surveillance

Police officials have received City Council approval to spend about $15,000 for several pieces of surveillance equipment.

Acting Police Chief Bob Krauss told council members last week that officers presently do surveillance work by sight, often being forced to make multiple passes in front a targeted location. By buying a periscope, camera, monitor and video equipment, the surveillance team would improve operations and safety, Krauss said.

The Police Department also will buy lap-top computers, making it easier to obtain search warrants, and a protective shield for subduing violent suspects, making rescues or quelling riots. The $14,940 price tag for the equipment will be paid through the city’s Narcotic Asset Seizure Fund.

In other business, the council elected Mary Ann Jones as mayor and Tim Keenan as mayor pro tem. The action came under city charter rules that call for the council to choose new officials in odd-numbered years.