Legislation Requiring Security Surveillance at High Occupancy Dwellings Scheduled for Public Hearing and Final Council Vote – October 31
Legislation Proposed by Vice Chair Wala Blegay, Esq. Includes Camera Surveillance for Apartments and Senior Housing as a Public Safety Tool – Public Participation Encouraged
The Prince George’s County Council, during session on Tuesday, October 31st, will consider Council Bill-066-2023, legislation proposed by Vice Chair Wala Blegay, Esq. (District 6) requiring security surveillance at high occupancy dwellings and age-restricted senior housing residences.
If enacted, the measure would require apartments with more than 100 units and senior housing residences to have security cameras with a 180-degree field of view and at each entry and exit, and each parking lot, parking garage, car park, and parking facility. The landlord must retain the camera footage for at least 30 days.
Vice Chair Blegay, author of the bill, says security cameras are a vital tool to deter and help solve crime.
“There has been an uptick in crime surrounding our apartments and senior housing residences and it is important for us to do everything within our power to keep residents safe and free from harm. While surveillance cameras will not completely prevent crime, they can serve as a tool to deter criminal activity. Additionally, if a crime is committed, surveillance footage could help police identify those intent on doing harm.”
Prior to the Council’s final vote, residents will have an opportunity to share their opinion on the bill during a scheduled public hearing at 10:00 a.m. Residents interested in providing public testimony may register via the Council’s eComment portal. The deadline to register online is Monday, October 30st at 3:00 p.m.
District 7 Council Member Krystal Oriadha and District 8 Council Member Edward Burroughs III are also sponsors of CB-66-2023.
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