Police to Seek Grant for Cameras in Cars

With the help of federal money, the Police Department will equip patrol cars with video cameras to increase officer safety.

The City Council on Tuesday approved the department’s request to apply for a $37,000 grant available under the Local Law Enforcement Block Grants Program. The council also agreed to contribute $4,000.

Lt. Robert L. Mosley said that applying for the grant is a formality.

“The money is available, and you simply have to apply,” Mosley said, adding that the city should receive the money in a couple of months.

Mosley said that $10,000 of the money will be used to install video cameras in two police cars. The presence of the cameras deter crime and the tapes can be used in court, he said.

The money also will be used to buy hand-held radios, handguns, computer equipment and a laser radar gun and to pay for diversion programs for juveniles and adult narcotic offenders.

In other council action, the conditional use permit for Music City, a restaurant and nightclub at 18774 Brookhurst St., was modified to allow only certain types of entertainment and music.

Permitted formats include Big Band, swing, pop, rock, disco, jazz and comedy and magic acts. Formats such as rap, heavy metal and punk will not be allowed.

The owners of Music City agreed to the change. Over the past two years, the club has been the subject of a number of complaints and police investigations.