Kosciusko will have two traffic cameras installed at traffic stops to aid in solving, and with hope, preventing, crimes.
The cameras will cost $2,500 per camera per year. The camera manufacturers will determine which locations would be most effective for installing the cameras. The cameras can recognize objects and can be told to send alerts if they detect certain vehicles.
“These things don’t just read tags; you can put in that it’s a white pickup, or a pickup with a broken glass; it identifies features on vehicles. It even identifies bumper stickers. They’re pretty smart technology,” said Mayor Tim Kyle during the Jan. 3 Kosciusko Board of Aldermen meeting. “We looked at what these can do for the community, they’re a great tool for law enforcement. Especially if you have some type of crime where you’re looking for a particular type of vehicle, you’ll already have a head start of them,” said Kyle. “This is mainly going to be for law enforcement.”
“It’s a big plus for law enforcement,” said Kosciusko Police Chief R.J. Adams. “It captures all tag numbers and if one crosses that is a murderer, rapist, kidnapper, anything, it’s going to pick it up. A lot of the messaging that goes out is automatic.”
A car that was stolen from Franks Chevrolet in September was recovered thanks to this type of traffic camera system. The cameras steadily record and keep track of time which also allows reviewing traffic accidents that occur within their range. Many central Mississippi towns have already implemented this traffic camera system.
“Any other community that has this type of system, and there are thousands, can put information in the computer, license number, vehicle type, whatever, and if it were to come through our community it will pick it up and send it right to them,” said Kyle.
Other topics covered at the Board of Aldermen meeting were:
• Accepting resignation from Dorothy Cotton
• Approving advertisement for deputy court clerk.
• Considering Darren Cawthorne for position at Kosciusko Police Department.
• Opening bids made for surplus vehicles.
