City discusses BDC support, police car camera equipment

WEIRTON – The City of Weirton is discussing its options of continuing its support of the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle, as well as the purchase of several in-car video cameras for the Weirton Police Department and other contributions. The issues were among those recommended Wednesday by the Weirton Finance Committee, and will be presented Monday to City Council for its consideration. The committee, on Wednesday, gave its support to the city's annual $25,000 allotment to the BDC, the primary economic development agency for Hancock and Brooke counties. “It's our annual contribution,” Ward 7 Councilman Terry Weigel said. “We've been doing this for a number of years.” City Manager Travis Blosser discussed the city's proposed creation of a planning and development director, but assured the committee the job would not interfere with the BDC, and could actually assist the agency with projects in the city. “That is not to take over the BDC's role,” Blosser said. The city also has been requested to contribute $2,500 to the Brooke-Hancock Veterans Memorial Park. Ward 6 Councilman Enzo Fracasso noted the park honors veterans and helps to beautify part of the city. The committee also is recommending the purchase of seven in-car video cameras for the Weirton Police Department, utilizing the state purchasing contract. “We're paying cash for these,” Blosser said. “These were in the budget.” The cameras, if approved by council, will be installed in the city's newest police cruisers. Blosser noted there has been discussion of eventually purchasing body cameras for the city's police officers, but explained there are more than a dozen vehicles without operational cameras which need to be addressed first. Council also will consider a contract for consulting services for medical/blood-borne pathogen requirements, at a cost of $400 per month. Blosser explained this is something the city does each year to make certain officials and employees remain up-to-date on regulations.- See more at: http://weirtondailytimes.com/page/content.detail/id/652276/City-discusses-BDC-support–police-car-camera-equipment.html#sthash.QmIXVuPL.dpuf