ALBURY councillors should think long and hard about a report going before them tonight on possibly installing closed circuit television cameras in the city.
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Three times in the past, dating back to 2008 and most recently last October, the council has rejected their introduction.
They have been a success in curbing violence or identifying offenders in other cities throughout NSW.
Cr Darren Cameron is asking fellow councillors to consider a trial of the cameras at what appears to be a relatively minimal cost.
Now another telling voice has joined the chorus in pushing for the trial.
The city’s long-serving magistrate, Tony Murray, is well versed on what happens with violent incidents by drunken, aggressive offenders in the Dean Street precinct.
The majority of assaults in his 12 years as Albury’s magistrate have happened near that location.
He believes such footage is the primary tool for police in identifying thugs or would-be trouble-makers.
The cameras provide a deterrent and if that fails, offenders should be easily identified and finish before him in court.
It is now up to the city leaders to decide on an important, long-term issue.
