Software could help Columbia police tap into private security cameras. But there are questions

Concerns over what it would mean for the city to buy real-time surveillance software for the police department led to the removal of a related agenda item this week at the Columbia City Council meeting.

Mayor Barbara Buffaloe requested the removal of the item.

The purchase of the Fusus real-time surveillance software for $315,000 for a three-year contract was originally part of the consent agenda. Items on this agenda typically do not have a public hearing or council discussion prior to approval, unless there is a request for an item to be put into old or new business, or in this case, complete removal.

"There are questions city council members have had on this, and I would like to request a work session on this when the chief is available," Buffaloe said.

The software would allow the police department access to both public and private cameras through voluntary participation, a council memo stated. The software would allow the department to tap into security camera feeds in real time when responding to emergencies so long as it has permission to do so.

The immediate video searches "(enhance) the situational awareness and investigative capabilities of law enforcement while emphasizing officer, citizen and community safety," the memo noted.

The police department held informational meetings with business owners, the Downtown Community Improvement District and Columbia Public Schools to present information on the Fusus system, according to the memo.

Buffaloe requested the council remove the item instead of tabling it because she did not yet have a clear date when the purchase decision would be discussed, she said.

Fifth Ward council member Matt Pitzer was less inclined to have the item removed due to time sensitivity.

Pitzer was the lone "no" vote on removal.

"There is an opportunity to have some discussion tonight, and if we need to extend that we can or we can take action tonight," he said.

Sixth Ward council member Betsy Peters wondered if the time sensitivity cited by Pitzer related to the budget year under which the software would be purchased.

Schools are interested in participating in the program and the school year starts soon, Pitzer replied.

While the council could have discussed the topic Monday, outgoing Third Ward council member Karl Skala said he wanted to receive input directly from the police.

First Ward council member Pat Fowler wants to see a program demonstration and gain understanding on how the software helps prevent crime and does not racially profile residents.

"I don't want to have discussion until we have more information," she said. "... I think this is one of those trust issues with our residents and I would encourage us to tread lightly."

Based on Columbia Police Chief Geoff Jones' availability on nights of council meetings, the discussion may not happen until at least Sept. 19.

Charles Dunlap covers local government, community stories and other general subjects for the Tribune. You can reach him at cdunlap@columbiatribune.com or @CD_CDT on Twitter. Please consider subscribing to support vital local journalism.

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Columbia council removes security camera software purchase from agenda