CCTV for Somerset area?

SOMERSET Regional Council is applying for funding for closed circuit television throughout the region following a recent spate of vandalism.

Cr Neil Zabel said vandals are robbing ratepayers of what should be done with their money.

“Our staff could be putting the time they are spending cleaning into parks and gardens and beautifying the town,” he said.

Cr Zabel said it was time for council to go further with plans for cameras by going to government for funding.

“Ipswich have had success with CCTV. Walloon and Rosewood have received Federal funding for the same thing and they are towns of similar size to the towns in Somerset region.

“My thinking is, if they can get it, I can't see why Esk, Lowood and Toogoolawah couldn't.”

Council are not the only victims of vandals in the region.

“We only talk about council property, which is only part of the picture,” Cr Zabel said.

“I know the Lowood Lions Club had a terrible time with spray paint and damage to the building to a point where they had to put bars on the windows.

“Because of the constant damage and cost to council, I don't think it's hard to put in an application.”

Cr Zabel said council will also be talking to local police to discuss a solution.

“We need to help them get more officers, particularly in Toogoolawah for the night hours, because that is when these incidents are occurring.”

Cr Zabel said Somerset Regional Council CEO, Robert Bain will write to both State and Federal Government requesting funding.