Pottstown Council debates approval of limited drone program for ShotSpotter integration
July 10, 2025 | Pottstown, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania
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In the heart of Pottstown, under the watchful gaze of Borough Hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the Committee of the Whole meeting on July 9, 2025. The air was charged with anticipation as council members deliberated on a proposal that could enhance public safety through the integration of drone technology.
At the center of the conversation was Police Chief Kevin Steele, who presented a request for approval to implement a drone program specifically designed to work with ShotSpotter technology. This system aims to improve the borough's response to gunfire incidents, a pressing concern for many residents. Chief Steele emphasized that the drone's use would be strictly limited to this purpose, assuring council members that any expansion of its scope would require further approval from the council.
Concerns were raised about the potential for the drone to capture unintended footage or data beyond its intended use. Council members sought clarity on the software involved, with one member expressing a desire to ensure that the drone would not engage in surveillance activities unrelated to its primary function. Chief Steele reassured them, stating, "I can guarantee you it'll only be used for ShotSpotter."
Financial implications were also a key topic. The chief confirmed that all costs associated with the drone program would be covered by the district attorney's office, alleviating any financial burden on the borough. This arrangement would also include necessary agreements to ensure that liability and insurance responsibilities rested with the district attorney's office, not the borough.
As the meeting progressed, council members expressed their support for the initiative, with plans to list the proposal for approval at the upcoming Monday night meeting. The drone, if approved, would be mounted on the roof of Borough Hall, symbolizing a new era of technological integration in local law enforcement.
The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing trend among municipalities to leverage technology for public safety while navigating the complexities of privacy and community trust. As Pottstown moves forward with this initiative, residents will be watching closely, hopeful that these advancements will lead to a safer environment for all.
At the center of the conversation was Police Chief Kevin Steele, who presented a request for approval to implement a drone program specifically designed to work with ShotSpotter technology. This system aims to improve the borough's response to gunfire incidents, a pressing concern for many residents. Chief Steele emphasized that the drone's use would be strictly limited to this purpose, assuring council members that any expansion of its scope would require further approval from the council.
Concerns were raised about the potential for the drone to capture unintended footage or data beyond its intended use. Council members sought clarity on the software involved, with one member expressing a desire to ensure that the drone would not engage in surveillance activities unrelated to its primary function. Chief Steele reassured them, stating, "I can guarantee you it'll only be used for ShotSpotter."
Financial implications were also a key topic. The chief confirmed that all costs associated with the drone program would be covered by the district attorney's office, alleviating any financial burden on the borough. This arrangement would also include necessary agreements to ensure that liability and insurance responsibilities rested with the district attorney's office, not the borough.
As the meeting progressed, council members expressed their support for the initiative, with plans to list the proposal for approval at the upcoming Monday night meeting. The drone, if approved, would be mounted on the roof of Borough Hall, symbolizing a new era of technological integration in local law enforcement.
The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing trend among municipalities to leverage technology for public safety while navigating the complexities of privacy and community trust. As Pottstown moves forward with this initiative, residents will be watching closely, hopeful that these advancements will lead to a safer environment for all.
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