Mandatory cameras in bars to record people? What a crazy world...

Tavern camera mandate proposed
Milwaukee alderman hopes to log evidence of misbehavior, crime

By LARRY SANDLER
lsandler@journalsentinel.com
Posted: Oct. 3, 2006

Milwaukee's taverns and nightclubs could be required to install security cameras to keep an eye on customers both inside and outside, under an ordinance proposed by downtown Ald. Bob Bauman.

As written, the measure would apply to all bars in the city. But Bauman said it could be revised to exclude restaurants and small taverns, leaving the focus on the largest establishments - and on the places where patrons cause the most trouble.

"Video allows us to be eyewitnesses to the incidents we're being asked to make judgments on," when neighbors appear at license renewal hearings with claims of violence and disorder at taverns, Bauman told the Common Council's Licenses Committee on Tuesday.

Tavern and restaurant representatives say they understand the advantages of cameras, but they're concerned about the cost of the equipment, which could run into the thousands of dollars for each establishment.

Ed Lump, president of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, said a small restaurant could spend $10,000 to $12,000 on security cameras.

Police Deputy Inspector Anna Ruzinski disputed that claim, saying her department priced a four-camera system at $1,200 last year. But Sally Ferguson, owner of Fhaze II, 3363 N. 27th St., said she spent nearly $7,000 three years ago on a one-camera system with a monitor and recorder, plus the cost of tapes and maintenance.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=508261

Let's install similar cameras in every politician's office, on every policeman's cap and at sporting events.

If you go to any new stadium or arena the entire place is covered by cameras. I worked in both Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park in Philly and you are always on camera. They cover all of the seating area and concourses as well as much of the area not accessible to the public.

No hanky-panky now.

trying to collect a bill I never owed, told me, "I'm trying to help you!"

I wonder how many people believe that.