City Hall wants Council to plunk down nearly $2 million in public safety upgrades as the city continues to struggle with a wave of high-profile armed robberies and a growing sense of unease among residents.
City Council is holding a special public safety meeting Monday night to discuss which of the 12 proposed programs they want to fund.
The proposals include already discussed initiatives such as drones for the Sheriff’s Department but also includes a number of security improvements at city facilities, including metal detectors, bulletproof glasses, weapon detection systems and a utility task vehicle.
Here’s a look at what’s on the table:
| PROPOSAL |
ESTIMATED COST (HIGH-END)
|
| Drone as First Responder (DFR | $250,000 |
| Fixed Real-Time Cameras | $225,000 |
| Gunshot Detection | $70,000 |
| Real-Time Watch Center (RTWC) | $250,000 |
| Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs) for Block by Block | $0 |
| High-Speed Vehicle Pursuit Alternative | $0 |
| Proactive Security Monitoring Solutions | $75,000 |
| Ballistic Protection at City Facilities | $450,000 |
| Weapon Detection at City Facilities | $610,000 |
| Visitor Management System at City Facilities | $20,000 |
| Emergency Communication | $6,000 |
| Polaris Utility Task Vehicle | $40,000 |
| TOTAL | $1,996,000 |
Drones
The West Hollywood Station of the LASD doesn’t currently use drones, but the Special Enforcement Bureau does in high-risk situations. City staff have met with other cities, such as Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Chula Vista, to learn about their Drone First Responder (DFR) programs. These cities demonstrated success in using drones, which has led to faster response times and a reduction in crime in some instances. Privacy concerns and community safeguards were also addressed.
A UCLA research team found benefits in using drones, such as decreased use-of-force incidents, and recommended their deployment with proper metrics, regular updates, and easily accessible policies.
Based on the research, the staff recommends implementing a DFR program as a one-year pilot in West Hollywood, partnering with the company “Flying Lion.” The pilot program will comply with Federal, State, and local laws, and will not be used for random surveillance. It will operate 40 hours a week, and updates will be provided twice a year. A certified deputy from the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station will serve as the air support officer (ASO).
The estimated cost of the one-year pilot program is $250,000, with an implementation timeline of approximately 120 days. The ASO will control the drone after launch, mirroring the program structure of other cities, and all public records act requests will be managed by the LASD.
Fixed Real-Time Cameras
The City currently only has ALPR cameras and traffic signal sensor cameras, neither of which provide live video feeds. City staff and West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station personnel met with the City of Beverly Hills, which has over 2,000 such cameras. These cameras are monitored 24/7 and strategically placed based on threat analysis and crime statistics. They also use a suite called BriefCam, enhancing functionality for rapid video review, search, and analysis.
After reviewing Beverly Hills’ program, staff recommends a one-year pilot program using fixed real-time cameras, partnering with Flock Safety, the same contractor used for the ALPR system. The estimated cost is $225,000, covering the installation of 44 cameras, equipment leasing, maintenance, and cloud storage. Some costs might be subsidized in partnership with the business community. The program would take approximately 150 days to implement, and updates would be provided twice a year as part of the community safety report.
Gunshot Detection
The proposal outlines the implementation of gunshot audio detection devices within the City. As of now, the City does not have any such devices, and none of the neighboring westside cities use them either. However, some cities in the County of Los Angeles do.
Gunshot detection systems utilize acoustic sensing technology to quickly identify and report gunshots, transmitting information to the local police department. They are mounted outdoors, as they cannot detect shots fired indoors.
Despite the absence of such systems in neighboring cities, staff recommends a one-year pilot program. The contractor chosen for this purpose would be Flock Safety, who is already involved with the City’s ALPR camera system. Flock Safety’s integrated system can provide real-time evidence to help officers respond effectively.
The cost for the one-year pilot program is estimated at $70,000, covering the installation of 60 devices citywide, leasing of equipment, maintenance, and training. Implementation would take around 150 days. City staff would not have access to the software components, and all public records act requests would be managed by the LASD.
Real-Time Watch Center
The Real-Time Watch Center (RTWC) would serve as a hub for coordinating the DFR program, fixed cameras, and ALPR cameras, reducing response times, facilitating early intervention in criminal activities, and improving evidence gathering.
Beverly Hills’ RTWC includes large screen monitors and computers, observed by dedicated staff and linked to live camera footage from drones and other cameras, as well as vehicle information from the ALPR program.
The staff recommends implementing a one-year pilot program for a RTWC in the West Hollywood Station of the LASD. The RTWC would integrate various public safety technologies, including drones, fixed cameras, gunshot detection devices, and ALPR cameras, to revolutionize the way the city is secured. The goal is to reduce crime, enhance communication, and improve safety using real-time data. Flock Safety’s real-time intelligence center will serve as the centralized platform for all data.
The estimated cost of the pilot program is $250,000, covering equipment purchase, installation, and software. The implementation would take approximately 120 days, and updates will be provided twice a year. City staff will not have access to the software/video components, and the LASD will manage all public records act requests.
Body-Worn Cameras for Block by Block
The proposal is to implement Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs) for Block by Block personnel, who currently do not use them, unlike the West Hollywood Station of the LASD, which has utilized BWCs since 2020. Studies show that BWCs reduce complaints against officers and make them more productive, improving the civility of encounters and enhancing transparency and legitimacy.
Block by Block personnel, though not sworn officers, interact significantly with the public, responding to thousands of calls and contacts. Feedback from the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station on their use of BWCs was positive.
The staff recommends that Block by Block personnel wear BWCs and follow specified policies requiring activation during public interactions. The City will review and provide feedback on these policies.
The implementation of a BWC program for Block by Block personnel would be at no cost to the City, and it would take approximately 60 days to implement. City staff will not have access to the software/video components, and all public records act requests will be managed by Block by Block.
High-Speed Vehicle Pursuit Alternative
The proposal involves the introduction of high-speed vehicle pursuit alternative technology at the West Hollywood Station, which currently does not use it. The new system would enable law enforcement to use GPS tagging and tracking to safely apprehend vehicles or their occupants without engaging in high-speed pursuits, thereby reducing risks to life and property.
There are two methods of deploying GPS tags: a vehicle-mounted launcher and a handheld GPS launcher. Both methods allow law enforcement to deploy a GPS tracking tag onto a vehicle, providing real-time positional data to coordinate a safe arrest. The technology can be used in various situations, such as DUI checkpoints, stolen vehicle recovery, and covert operations.
Staff recommends coordinating a trial pilot program with a vendor, emphasizing that any technology reducing risk to life and property aligns with the City’s interests. The cost of the trial pilot program will be at no cost to the City, as the staff intends for the vendor to provide it for free to the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station. The implementation of the pilot program would take approximately 120 days, with staff reporting back later on the results and potential funding requests.
Proactive Security Monitoring
The proposal outlines the introduction of proactive security monitoring solutions to the City’s facilities. Currently, the City lacks any proactive security technology and relies on reactive measures like cameras, alarms, or onsite personnel to manage safety and nuisance issues.
However, some vendors now offer 24/7 proactive monitoring of existing security technologies, allowing them to detect potential threats instantly. Alerts are sent to a 24/7 command center, where trained personnel can communicate directly through cameras and call authorities if necessary.
After reviewing this solution, staff recommends launching a six-month pilot program to monitor existing security camera infrastructure at various public facilities. The goal is to enhance safety and security for City staff and the public. Additionally, staff will explore amending the municipal code to require proactive monitoring in specific situations, such as vacant properties or areas with high numbers of calls regarding trespassing, vandalism, etc.
The estimated cost for the six-month pilot program is $75,000, including 24/7 monitoring and integration of the City’s existing security infrastructure. The implementation would take approximately 120 days.
Ballistic Protection at City Facilities
The proposal outlines the implementation of ballistic protection at City facilities, which currently lack such measures. Ballistic protection provides physical barriers to deter potential intruders or attackers, enhancing safety and possibly leading to lower insurance rates due to risk mitigation.
Staff met with vendors specializing in this protection, performed facility walk-throughs, and consulted with other cities that have implemented such protection. Different levels of bullet resistance are available, with Level 3 being the most commonly used in municipal government buildings.
The recommendation is for the City Council to seek community input and discuss this proposal. If approved, a phased approach over two years is suggested, focusing initially on the City Council Chambers and the West Hollywood Park Aquatic Recreation Center (ARC), followed by City Hall and the Recreation Center at Plummer Park.
The estimated costs and timelines are:
- City Council Chambers and ARC: $250,000, with installation taking approximately 180 days.
- City Hall and the Recreation Center at Plummer Park: $450,000, with installation taking approximately 270 days.
Both phases will involve purchasing and installing Level 3 ballistic protection products.
Weapon Detection Devices at City Facilities
These devices, including metal detectors, reduce risks associated with guns, knives, bombs, or other dangerous objects. The primary benefits are enhanced safety and potential lower insurance rates due to risk mitigation.
Staff met with vendors and other cities to understand the available options. Weapon detection technology has evolved, trending towards non-invasive screening methods, reducing the need for pat-downs or hand-wanding. Cities typically use traditional metal detectors with dedicated security personnel.
The staff recommendation is for the City Council to seek community input and discuss implementing weapon detection devices at City facilities. A phased approach over two years is suggested, focusing first on City Hall and Council Chambers, followed by the ARC and the Recreation Center at Plummer Park.
The estimated costs and timelines vary significantly depending on the device chosen:
- City Hall and Council Chambers: $60,000 to $366,000, with installation taking approximately 120 days.
- ARC and Recreation Center at Plummer Park: $40,000 to $244,000, with installation taking approximately 120 days.
The costs include purchasing or leasing weapon detection devices, and the City Council can prioritize the installation order.
Emergency Communication
City Hall recommends enhancing the current emergency communication platform used by the City, Everbridge Nixle 360, to communicate with the community about public safety topics. Though over six thousand members have registered, the current software has limitations, such as an inability to create channels for specific groups like businesses and City employees, and stagnant growth in registered users.
Staff researched various platforms and found that Everbridge’s advanced public safety, resident connection, and safety connection platforms, bundled together, could meet the City’s needs. These three platforms allow differentiated communication channels, increase participation from 17% to 70%, and enhance communication with employees during emergencies.
The recommendation is to amend the existing contract with Everbridge to upgrade and add these advanced platforms, thereby improving overall safety and security in the community.
The estimated cost of implementing this enhanced emergency communication platform is $6,000 for the first year (with credit applied from the existing contract) and $15,000 annually thereafter. The implementation timeline is estimated at 60 days.
Polaris Utility Task Vehicle (UTV)
The proposal highlights the need for a Polaris Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) for Community Safety staff in the City, particularly during major events such as Pride and Halloween. Currently, the absence of a UTV has led to mobility challenges for staff, especially in navigating large crowds or during street closures with significant traffic and limited parking.
Utility Task Vehicles are compact, light-weight vehicles that have been effectively employed by the City’s public safety partners. These vehicles can transport up to four people and can also carry materials as needed.
After researching different models and meeting with vendors and public safety partners, staff recommends purchasing one UTV to enhance mobility during major events.
The estimated cost for purchasing a UTV public safety vehicle is $40,000 for the first year, with ongoing maintenance costs of $1,000 annually thereafter. The expected timeline to receive the vehicle is approximately 120 days.
[…] Council approved 39 new ALPR cameras to be placed across WeHo in undisclosed locations, part of a major investment this year in public safety technologies. The city previously had one ALPR camera at the intersection of La Brea and Santa […]
I am perplexed as to how in the world did old West Hollywood manage to go through decades as one of the safest cities in the state…unil Far Left Extremists took over. Open borders, drugs, fewer police, massive homelessness seem like the perfect solution. “GET TRUMP” will solve everything.
All you queens sit here and complain about the city, and when I go to the comment link where you can complain and be heard, none of you losers said anything.
The gays defunded the Sherriff,because they said that the Sherriffs were profiling and beating up gay people,it was written on a float at the Gay Parade…so West Hollywood hired Block by Block which only deals with the Homeless Not the Crime Wave in Current West Hollywood !
This city does not have priorities when funding can be vitally used for cameras, foot patrols, and increased police services to deter violent crimes! This study omits any mention of upticks and increased violent crimes against residents and the public! No mention of lack of policing high crime areas or nightlife or foot patrols and is increasing in violent crime waves, yet wants to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars and fund studies or acquire statistics that don’t even help or pertain to us residents? The statistic that really matters are the number of serious crimes have only increased exponentially… Read more »
Here’s an idea. How about we build more jails, and crowd them up even more, and make them real uncomfortable, and not release criminals back onto the streets cause there is “no room” in jail. And how about we treat shoplifting a candy bar equal to shoplifting a cartful of stolen merchandise. And how about we treat tresspassing and loitering (homeless) as the crimes that they are, rather than time for more Sepi style handholding. There, I solved every problem in Weho. You’re welcome.
A one-year proposal for gun shot detection\. Are you kidding me?
YES to all these investments. Our law enforcement needs to keep up with the times.
Let’s add more cops and less BBB to that.
I know, I know, I’m a genius.
Here’s a crazy idea, one that, as I see it, won’t require any year(s)-long pilot program followed by studies and discussions as to its effectiveness. Use all this money, and whatever else can be cobbled together, to hire more cops and put them on foot-patrol beats on our main drags and throughout the neighborhoods in between.
👏 👏 👏
More than 50% to protect city hall??? No!!
Spend the money where 99% of the people are exposed to crime.
Can’t we get anything right here in WeHo?
No kidding! They all work from home anyway!
Totally agree!! Over a million dollars to protect buildings that haven’t had a major incident. Why wouldn’t they spend that money on protecting the community where crimes is rampant.
The “Mayor” gets police escorts, the rest of us get “ambassadors”
This is SO embarrassing. Thanks for spending all this money to protect yourselves, City Hall. This is why we can’t elect people that haven’t had real jobs in their lives to manage!
Since 2018 I was emailing and speaking to WEHO city council about what Beverly Hills (BH) had implemented through their IT team ie cameras, etc.. The key is to support the Sherriff’s department and monitor cars in and out of WEHO because 75% of crimes are associated with a vehicle. I think this is a breakthrough after so many years of watching BH succeed in protecting it’s citizens.
We should be adopting everything that Beverly Hills does. But the activist class couldn’t support anything sensible like that.
The City “leaders” who always consider themselves to be the most knowledgable about everything, fail to engage with other cities such as Beverly Hills who appear to have things in order. It is simply beneath them. No one appears to understand the balance between Public Safety, Development, Housing and Business. In other words, they have not experienced living in a well run city or enterprise so they consistently rely on “consultants”. It seems an exponential game of Pin the Tail on the Donkey however they have never seen a donkey. Blind leading the blind in a city filled with issue… Read more »
This comment should be retracted. At the time, information regarding Beverly Hills was not available. Apologies. However this plan and individual proposals appear over wrought and mire suitable for an armed fortress. Is that what the CHOY needs and what residents want? Old fashioned competent policing would likely resolve much if these protocols.
Follow the leader SFO just allowed Police to monitor all cameras LIVE