Deer Lake -
After recent vandalism and illegal dumping in the gravel pit area behind Old Bonne Bay Road and Wellon Drive, Coun. Elmo Bingle said it's imperative now, more than ever, to get the town's security cameras up and running.
"At this point the cameras will be used in areas where we find there are things going on. Having people illegally dumping garbage off and vandalism, it is a concern to some of the business residents," said Bingle.
The town is expected to purchase three portable outdoor security cameras, along with signage and mounting equipment. Bingle said the hardware will be installed as soon as possible.
"Each camera will be portable and will be able to be moved in other locations," he said.
The area is already a bit more secure, with both entrances to the pit guarded off by either a gate or a large mound of dirt so vehicles cannot enter easily.
Mayor Dean Ball said it is time for the town to take a strong stance on the unwanted visitors in the area.
"We've been having issue with vandalism and illegal dumping several areas in town, and we are going to be moving those cameras on a frequent basis … We will be placing charges where we can. We are determined to get a handle on this. It's something we've been dealing with for a while. The cameras are going to be our only way to make charges stick," said Ball.
Ball said the town currently owns cameras inside the Hodder Memorial Recreation Complex, which he said have worked well.
"That's been proven to be a worthwhile venture," he said. "It's unfortunate that we need them, but again, with the issues that we have around town, we are determined, and we will press charges because this is something that is getting to be a bit ridiculous."
