The police chief highlighted the necessity of the new agreement, which consolidates existing contracts and introduces advanced technology to the department. The agreement includes unlimited data storage, a 10-year warranty on devices, and automatic updates for body-worn cameras. The Axon Taser 10, a central feature of the contract, offers enhanced range, capacity, and accuracy, potentially reducing the need for physical force.

A notable aspect of the Axon contract is the integration of community resources through a cloud-based platform, Fus, which merges various technologies, such as live feed cameras and license plate recognition systems. This platform enables real-time access to camera feeds from community members who voluntarily share their surveillance footage, thereby enhancing community safety by providing law enforcement with immediate access to visual information during incidents. Concerns about the cost implications for residents participating in the camera integration program were addressed, with assurances given regarding the compatibility of the technology across different brands and models.

The chief also mentioned the potential for future technology upgrades during the contract period, confirming that any improvements made within the ten years would be included without additional costs. A specific upgrade, a drone system for first responders, was discussed, though it is not currently part of the contract. The presentation underscored the role of technology in enhancing police effectiveness and community safety, with no formal objections or debates noted during the discussions.

In addition to the Axon contract, the commission discussed a significant proposal from Villa Magna concerning signage regulations. The proposed plans involved replacing existing monument signage and adding additional signage on the west side of State Road A1A. The commission revisited the design previously presented, which had received general approval despite concerns about the size of the sign. Existing signage regulations in the town are among the most restrictive in the area, with a limit of 10 square feet, compared to an observed average of 20 to 22 square feet in the vicinity.

The vice mayor expressed a desire to move Villa Magna’s proposal to the planning board and address broader signage standards concerns. The discussion included considerations of aesthetics and safety, with commissioners acknowledging the potential danger due to poor sight lines and the need for uniformity in signage colors and styles throughout the town. There was consensus on the necessity for the planning board to have a discussion about signage standards and recommendations, recognizing the need for a different mechanism to appeal signage requests, as the current ordinance did not provide for variances.

Further topics included the approval of a contract with Southern Road and Bridge LLC for the Belo Bridge Rehabilitation Project, set at $550,191. This project faced initial “sticker shock” due to bids higher than the engineer’s estimate, but negotiations secured a 10% reduction from the recommended contractor. The commission also discussed a new proposal for janitorial services at the town municipal complex, opting for RMS Corporation, resulting in an annual cost saving of approximately $35,000.