By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the July 14 meeting of the Guthrie Center City Council, Sheriff Matt Harmann addressed the council to ask for consideration of purchasing surveillance cameras to be placed in the city. Harmann explained that such cameras are becoming more common, especially in urban areas, and are a valuable tool for law enforcement.
“Anytime you go to Des Moines, you’re probably on camera 50 times,” he said.
Harmann said the Sheriff’s Department benefits from cameras installed by businesses and private properties, and he encouraged the city to consider if any cameras could be afforded. Harmann said such cameras vary greatly in price and quality, and he suggested a mid-range camera with an initial cost of approximately $1,425 and yearly service of $135.
The council approved purchasing four such cameras but will initially purchase two so they can be evaluated before more are purchased. City Administrator Kris Arrasmith said she will check for grant availability to help cover the costs.
No decision was made regarding placement of cameras. Harmann said he doesn’t have any specific areas in mind but simply encourages “the more, the merrier.”
The council discussed entrance security at the public library. Arrasmith said access codes are used for entry at the library, but some of the codes have been changed. Council consensus was that there should only be a limited number of codes in use, and City Hall staff should always have a current list of any current codes. Mayor Mike Herbert said he will meet with the library board to discuss the matter.
The council discussed the matter of urban chickens, as some citizens have asked to be allowed to raise chickens within city limits. Arrasmith read from the city code/ordinances, and no specific prohibition against chickens was found. The consensus of the council members was that cases could be decided as they come up, but that various restrictions (containment, amount of space available, distance from neighbors, etc.) would be considered.
The council approved Resolution 2025-12 Tax Exemption for Tandem and Kelsey Eischeid, 902 Tiger Lane.
The next regular meeting of the council is set for Monday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. The public is welcome.