Chicago Eyeing Measure to Place Cameras In Parking Lots
CHICAGO -- Public safety officials here last week endorsed a proposal that would require hundreds of businesses to install security cameras in their stores and parking lots.
City Alderman Ray Suarez, lead sponsor of the measure, was quoted in the Chicago Tribune as saying the ordinance "is not intended to punish anyone," but rather to increase security and reduce crime If enacted, the ordinance, which would apply to any licensed business open to the general public for more than 12 hours a day, would have impacts on a host of retailers, restaurants, bars, gas stations, and even offices and common areas in apartment buildings and condos.
Some aldermen who attended the committee meeting voiced skepticism about the measure, and questioned whether it is too broad, or necessary at all.
"My concern is the little guy who has a lot of regulatory burdens already," said Alderman Joe Moore. "This should be a decision left to the individual business owner."
Calling it "one more imposition on business," Gerald Roper, president of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, estimated compliance would cost a small store about $5,000, to equip itself with four cameras necessary to cover its floor space.
Besides the chamber, organizations opposing the measure include the Illinois Restaurant Association and the Chicagoland Apartment Association.
City Alderman Ray Suarez, lead sponsor of the measure, was quoted in the Chicago Tribune as saying the ordinance "is not intended to punish anyone," but rather to increase security and reduce crime If enacted, the ordinance, which would apply to any licensed business open to the general public for more than 12 hours a day, would have impacts on a host of retailers, restaurants, bars, gas stations, and even offices and common areas in apartment buildings and condos.
Some aldermen who attended the committee meeting voiced skepticism about the measure, and questioned whether it is too broad, or necessary at all.
"My concern is the little guy who has a lot of regulatory burdens already," said Alderman Joe Moore. "This should be a decision left to the individual business owner."
Calling it "one more imposition on business," Gerald Roper, president of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, estimated compliance would cost a small store about $5,000, to equip itself with four cameras necessary to cover its floor space.
Besides the chamber, organizations opposing the measure include the Illinois Restaurant Association and the Chicagoland Apartment Association.