Carlos Ramirez, Facilities Operations Supervisor
9/1/2005
Recently, the library sustained extensive damage to the front entrance area windows due to vandalism. Costs for replacement of glass will be approx $6,500 - $7,000. A total of 9 windows were damaged including two of the upstairs larger windows. Over the past 2 ½ years the library has sustained a total of $10,000 in damage due to vandalized windows on 10 – 12 separate occasions.
Last year a digital surveillance system was installed at the library due to vandalism. Because of the budget, a four camera system (with motion activation) was all that could be afforded. All though a good quality system, it is unable to capture clear images at night from a distance. Because of this the library is looking to upgrade to a camera that is night sensitive along with other possible upgrades and solutions. The video did however capture some activity around the time of the vandalism and a person has been identified. A copy of the disc along with other information gathered by the facilities dept. was handed over to the criminal investigations office. The library is currently waiting to hear back from the detective on the case.
The library insurance deductible is set at $50,000 (per incident) because of this the facilities budget will be affected significantly. The library did look into lowering the deductible and other solutions with City Finance, the conclusion was made the current practices are the most cost effect.