Sparwood district council has approved a recording devices policy as the community gets set to roll out body worn cameras for bylaw officers.
Corporate services manager Megan Rawles says the cameras will be a clear, objective look at any bylaw interactions.
“One of the primary advantages of personal recording devices are that they provide an objective record of interactions between officers and the public,” she said.
“This can enhance accountability, improve transparency, and help resolve disputes by offering clear evidence in case of complaints or allegations of misconduct.”
She says it could also deter inappropriate behaviour.
Personal recording devices can also serve as a deterrent to inappropriate behaviour, as individuals may behave more respectfully when they know they are being recorded,” she added.
“Additionally, they can improve the safety of officers by documenting the incidents that can arise from confrontation and/or conflict.”
The policy outlines guidelines on public notification, when to record, exceptions to recording as well as storage security and retention.
The district is moving forward with body worn cameras, but the policy also allows the implementation of dash cams.
The district has not fully explored the use of dash cams, but it remains an option for the future.
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