WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia currently ranks high amongst major cities in a number of criminal activity statistics; and
WHEREAS, Certain areas in Philadelphia have gained reputations as “hot-beds” for criminal activity, including open air drug markets, public gun violence, and gang warfare; and
WHEREAS, Such activity significantly compromises the safety and welfare of residents who dwell or work in those areas; and
WHEREAS, The use of video surveillance cameras is quickly becoming one of the nation's most popular and economical ways to fight crime; and
WHEREAS, A number of major municipalities, having experienced similar public safety issues, including New York, Baltimore, and more recently Chicago, have employed video surveillance camera technology in their efforts to combat crime and promote the safety of citizens; and
WHEREAS, According to published statistics the use of video surveillance cameras in New York has contributed to up to a 40 percent drop in crime in certain areas, and Baltimore officials point to a 33 percent drop in crime in areas covered by cameras; and
WHEREAS, The use of video surveillance cameras by those municipalities has contributed greatly to the peace of mind of residents by providing a feeling of security for citizens, and has even been requested by residents of those municipalities; and
WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia could benefit from the strategic placement of video surveillance cameras in areas of the city to help combat crime and promote public safety; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Joint Committees on Public Safety and Public Property be authorized to hold hearings to determine the benefits and feasibility of employing video surveillance cameras in efforts to reduce crime and promote safety in Philadelphia.
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