Security Cameras Approved for Cannington Library and Animal Shelter

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

CANNINGTON: Brock Township Council has given the green light to install new security camera systems, at the Timothy Findley Memorial Branch of the Brock Library and the Brock Dench Animal Shelter, following a report, presented at the Monday, April 12th council meeting.

The project was awarded to Hytec Security which submitted the lowest of two bids, at $10,690 plus HST, slightly over the previously approved $10,000 budget.

“This is a necessary investment, to ensure the safety of both our facilities and the public,” said Wayne Ward, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. “The installations will provide comprehensive coverage, both inside and outside the buildings.”

According to Mr. Ward’s report, the Township only received two bids by the deadline, Hytec Security’s $10,690 and Dyson Alarm Tech Systems’ $11,025. With the non-refundable HST factored in, the total cost for the project will be approximately $10,878.

The Township's procurement policy allows for such expenditures within a certain margin, but council approval was still required since the project exceeded the approved amount. To cover the shortfall, councillors also approved an additional transfer, of up to $1,000, from the Public Building Capital Reserve which currently holds an estimated balance of $1.486 million.

Regional Councillor Mike Jubb voiced support for the decision, stating, “Given the partnership with Durham Region Police Services and the need for updated surveillance, this is a reasonable and prudent use of reserve funds.”

The security upgrades are part of a joint initiative, between the Township of Brock and Durham Region Police Services. The 2025 budget had allocated $10,000 for the project, split equally between the Township and the police service.

“There are no additional impacts to climate or asset management with this installation,” Mr. Ward noted. “It’s a straightforward project, with a direct benefit to the community.”

The camera systems are expected to be installed in the coming weeks, with any future installations at other municipal buildings to be evaluated based on prevailing market rates.