| ITEM #: 8. DATE: 10/28/2024 AI #:2299 |
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CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
| SUBJECT: | ADOPTION OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL CAMERA OPERATION AND RECORDING POLICY |
| STAFF PRESENTER(S): | Steve Scinto, Director of Engineering |
SUMMARY
This report presents a proposed Traffic Signal Camera Operation and Recording Policy that establishes limits and responsibilities concerning the operation and recording of video from traffic signal cameras within Goodyear. The proposed Policy was prepared to address a project identified within the City's fiscal year (FY) 25-27 Strategic Plan.
The City's traffic signal cameras, managed by the Engineering Department's Traffic Operations Division, are used to monitor traffic conditions and enhance traffic flow. The proposed Policy regulates camera usage, video access, and retention procedures.
The City's traffic signal cameras, managed by the Engineering Department's Traffic Operations Division, are used to monitor traffic conditions and enhance traffic flow. The proposed Policy regulates camera usage, video access, and retention procedures.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
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RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the proposed Traffic Signal Camera Operation and Recording Policy. (Steve Scinto, Director of Engineering)
FISCAL IMPACT
If the proposed Policy is adopted by Council, City staff would purchase the necessary equipment to record traffic signal camera footage. The virtual storage space required to store the recorded footage is quoted at $293,700, which includes a monthly subscription fee for the first three years. This will be funded through an approved $300,000 supplemental in the FY25 Engineering budget, which was requested for this purpose.
BACKGROUND AND PREVIOUS ACTIONS
The proposed Policy (Attachment A) aligns with a fiscal year (FY) 2025 project identified within the City's FY25-27 Strategic Plan, which instructs staff to, “identify legally acceptable, best practices for recording traffic cameras.” The Traffic Operations Division within the Engineering Department operates and maintains closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, also known as Pan, Tilt, and Zoom (PTZ) cameras, at traffic intersections to monitor traffic flow. Currently, the existing PTZ cameras do not record footage, and can only be viewed in real-time.
Video from select locations may be recorded and stored per state retention guidelines. The proposed Policy establishes procedures for managing and using video footage from the traffic signal cameras. It specifies who may access the system and under what circumstances video recordings can be retrieved and used. In preparing the proposed Policy, staff also developed an Internal Footage Request Form (Attachment B), which will be used to request stored footage from the traffic signal cameras.
Video from select locations may be recorded and stored per state retention guidelines. The proposed Policy establishes procedures for managing and using video footage from the traffic signal cameras. It specifies who may access the system and under what circumstances video recordings can be retrieved and used. In preparing the proposed Policy, staff also developed an Internal Footage Request Form (Attachment B), which will be used to request stored footage from the traffic signal cameras.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The proposed Policy establishes a clear framework for the operation, access, and use of traffic signal cameras throughout the city. Key points include:
- Access: Only authorized personnel can access or retrieve stored video footage. Public and media access to live feeds is restricted.
- Use of Recorded Video: Video footage may be used for specific city operations such as traffic investigations, police inquiries, and operational reviews. A formal request process is outlined to ensure compliance.
- Video Retention: All video recordings are subject to state retention guidelines and will be maintained until their administrative value is served.