County to test short-term counter cameras for clerk’s office; staff to get quotes for longer-term system

County staff asked the board to approve adding short-term, counter-mounted cameras at public counters (e.g., clerk’s office and cashier stations) to improve visibility of cash transactions. Staff described commercially available wireless units (brand examples mentioned in discussion) that can be placed on a shelf or counter for a modest per-unit cost and that stream live video to a phone or computer with subscription plans for cloud storage.

Staff said the county’s existing ceiling-mounted camera array becomes blurry when zoomed in on cash transactions at counters; the new units would be counter-mounted to provide clear views of money exchanges without obstructing customer flow. Commissioners asked staff to obtain quotes for two additional units and to consult the county IT contact (Charles, referenced in discussion) about compatibility with the county’s current system and long-term alternatives such as an enterprise camera solution.

Commissioners emphasized keeping any short-term purchases modest and reversible while the county evaluates grant opportunities or budget capacity for a more comprehensive system. Staff will request quotes and return with cost and compatibility information at a future meeting.