DeLAND, Fla. – The city of DeLand is moving forward with plans to install six solar-powered security cameras across the downtown area, part of a $61,000 investment aimed at deterring crime and improving public safety.
City leaders said the cameras are designed to serve as an added tool for law enforcement, helping officers investigate incidents more efficiently and monitor large community events in real time.
“This initiative is about prevention as much as enforcement,” the city said in a statement. “We want the community to feel safe, knowing we are using technology responsibly to support public safety while respecting privacy.”
The cameras will be equipped with “Guardian Mode,” allowing them to automatically track vehicles and people, even after hours.
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DeLand officials emphasized that the project will not reduce the number of officers downtown but will instead give them additional resources to respond quickly when problems arise.
Local visitors like James Henderson said they welcome the move.
“If it makes it safer, I’m all for it,” Henderson said. “Peace of mind. Well, it is nice to know that we’re somewhat being watched. I don’t want too much privacy being invaded, you know?”
The project comes as DeLand has dealt with recent concerns ranging from vandalism to security issues at the police department itself.
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Funding will come from impact fees, with Stetson University allowing one of the cameras to be placed on its campus.
The cameras are expected to be installed in the coming months, and city officials said they are exploring other locations where the technology could be expanded.