Hammond Gas Stations Partner with BlueNET Program to Enhance City Surveillance Efforts
In a bid to bolster city surveillance and combat crime, Hammond gas stations have recently united with the BlueNET program. Since the implementation of an overnight gas station curfew in August, ten gas stations in Hammond have agreed to integrate their surveillance cameras into the city’s BlueNET surveillance program. This collaboration aims to enhance the coordination between gas station owners and law enforcement, while also promoting compliance with city ordinances.
The BlueNET program, developed in partnership with tech firm Fusus, enables residents and business owners to register their surveillance cameras with the Hammond Police Department. By doing so, officers gain prior knowledge of their locations when collecting video evidence of crimes. Additionally, camera owners have the option to integrate their devices into the police department’s network, providing a live feed directly to Hammond police. This initiative aligns with the city’s goal to promote safety and deter criminal activities.
To encourage gas station owners to participate in the BlueNET program, Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott, Jr. advocated for the controversial midnight to 5 a.m. curfew ordinance. Under this ordinance, gas station owners can petition the city’s Board of Public Works and Safety for an exemption to the curfew. One factor considered by the board when granting exemptions is whether the station’s cameras are integrated into the BlueNET program, in addition to other factors such as location, police callout history, and compliance with city ordinances.
The city has received a total of 17 petitions for exemptions, of which 14 have already been heard before the board. Currently, three petitions are awaiting hearings, while two have been withdrawn and one rejected. Out of the total, ten gas stations have been granted exemptions, while another station received a limited exemption, allowing it to open at 4 a.m. instead of 5.
Mayor McDermott expressed his satisfaction with the number of exemptions granted, stating that many gas stations presented compelling arguments for their need to operate throughout the night. This unexpected outcome has strengthened cooperation between the city and gas station owners, leading to increased compliance with zoning and safety ordinances. By adhering to these regulations, the city hopes to enhance overall safety and maintain a more orderly environment.
As a result of these efforts, 36 Hammond gas stations are now active participants in the BlueNET system. Currently, 294 cameras have been registered with the program, with 661 cameras fully integrated, enabling the police to access real-time footage. This significant increase in surveillance coverage across the city will undoubtedly assist law enforcement in combating crime and maintaining public safety.
The decision to implement the curfew ordinance was not without its fair share of deliberations. However, Mayor McDermott and like-minded city council members argued that the closure of gas stations overnight would contribute to a reduction in violent crimes. Critics of the ordinance expressed concerns over potential job losses associated with reduced operating hours. Although it is still early to draw definitive conclusions, no violent incidents have been reported at the gas stations that were allowed to remain open overnight since the curfew went into effect on November 1.
The integration of gas station surveillance cameras into the BlueNET program marks a significant step forward in Hammond’s efforts to enhance city surveillance and combat crime. By fostering collaboration between gas station owners and law enforcement, while also encouraging compliance with city regulations, Hammond aims to create a safer and more secure environment for its residents and businesses.
