Memorandum
Date: 8/5/2025
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Mireya G. Turner, Community Development Department Director
Shannon Walker-Smith, Deputy Administrator
Marcus Beltramo, Code Enforcement Manager
Subject: Presentation of Community Development Department - Code Enforcement Body Worn Camera Policies
Executive Summary: As part of the department’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, Code Enforcement Body Worn Camera (BWC) Policies have been developed for use in code enforcement. Code Enforcement Officers’ use of Body Worn Cameras can enhance enforcement and professionalism. These policies provide clear guidelines on how BWC’s can be utilized to enhance Staff’s ability to investigate and address code violations while maintaining transparency and respect for privacy.
According to the policies, BWC’s will be deployed for Code Enforcement activities, documenting potential violations, and responding to emergencies related to code enforcement and maintaining a transparent record of inspections and encounters with the public. Operations will comply with all privacy laws. Data collection will be limited to areas directly related to active investigations.
Additionally, all Code Enforcement BWC data will be securely stored and retained in full compliance of retention guidelines. Access to this data will be strictly limited to authorized personnel. Operators will undergo regular training on BWC usage, privacy laws, and ethical standards. All BWC footage will be logged, reviewed and stored to ensure compliance with the policy. All BWC related activities must align with this policy.
Our Code Enforcement Officers are highly trained professionals who play a vital role in maintaining community standards and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Through comprehensive education and ongoing training, they have elevated their level of professionalism, equipping themselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex issues effectively and respectfully. Their expertise extends beyond enforcing codes- they often serve as community liaisons, working collaboratively with residents, businesses, and other agencies to promote public safety, health, and quality of life. This commitment to excellence reflects their dedication to fostering vibrant, well-maintained, and compliant communities. The addition of BWC usage to Code Enforcement ensures ethical and transparent encounters with all members of the public and ensure all officers maintain the highest level of standards in enforcement actions.
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Estimated Cost: $ Amount Budgeted: $ Additional Requested: $ Future Annual Cost: ________
Recommended Action: This item is informational only. No Board action is requested.