That was the question posed by Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash, after the issue of the cost to run new CCTV cameras in East Nowra, Bomaderry and Sanctuary Point was raised by Cr Andrew Guile.
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Shoalhaven City Council received a $300,000 federal government grant to install extra cameras in the three local trouble spots.
However Cr Guile voted against accepting the funding, saying Shoalhaven ratepayers would need to contribute more than $625,000 over five years as a lifetime cost for the election promise to be delivered.
Cr Gash said there would be a cost to council but it was justified.
“We keep the community safe in swimming pools, on sporting fields, you name it. Why not walking up the street?” she said.
“We have been given a $300,000 grant for CCTV cameras in our worst areas, and I hate to say it, East Nowra, Bomaderry and Sanctuary Point.
“Ask the people or shopkeepers of Sanctuary Point if they want to give the money back?
“Cr Guile knows it is a ridiculous situation and he should go and explain to the shopkeepers and community that he did not want CCTV.
“His idea was knocked back but it created consternation. The community was told we were going to get cameras. Certainly there is a cost involved, no question, but we have to balance that with the other services and maintenance areas we have.”
She said the cost in the first year would be $30,000.
“The money has come through for this project as of July 1 and council will survey the community to see what people want,” she said.
Cr Gash said council would also have to look at a proposal to upgrade the Nowra CBD CCTV cameras.
“That proposal is not part of the $300,000 grant but Nowra’s cameras need to be looked at,” she said.
“They are outdated and again council needs to look at that in its financial
situation.”