I'm more curious to further understand why the council wouldn't recommend the body cam purchase/program. The city consistently makes decisions in forward progression of the times and in regard for residents safety, bike lanes on our streets, inclusion of arts and culture, planning commissions for economic development, ecology remediation and more. Yet, we would stop short in this opportunity to enhance training and protocol for our police officers and, to provide the most accurate record of such for both the community residents as well those who protect us. Add to this our proximity to the Twin Cities and the compensatory litigation affecting many government entities, this seems only logical.

I think we should support the police and our community by approving the use of body cameras.

Body cameras seem like a no-brainer. More accurate criminal investigations, protection against miscarriages of justice for both the public and police officers, and improved training and standards through analysis of incidents are all real, tangible benefits.

From what I've read, body cameras for police officers have been a mixed bag, and in some cities studies have shown that they haven't had any positive effect on officer behavior. I think the cameras could be good for our community if rules are in place to ensure police use the footage they capture in a responsible way. A few questions that I think we should consider below:
-Where is the money coming from to pay for this? Could it go to something better? In some cities, money for body cams has come from a fund that can only be used for body cams, which I think could justify this use of resources.
-What are the rules for officers? Will they be required to wear cams at all times?
-Some departments have used these tools as a way to track officer behavior. Does Northfield's department have a plan for higher-ups to review footage to look out for and root out problematic behavior/language?
-How transparent will this be? What will the rules be for public accessibility of this footage?

Why wouldnt we want to have cameras on our Police officers. Anyone with a badge should have a bullett proof vest and body camera. They keep us safe we need to keep them safe!

The camera presents a more objective view than memory can. The camera view has been a critical point testimony about an event.

Body cameras are necessary for protection of our officers similar to them being protected by wearing bullet proof vests. I also would like our plain clothes detectives wear body cameras and vests. There safety has to be our utmost concern