San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock announced progress in collaborating with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to install surveillance cameras along the city’s shoreline. The initiative aims to monitor and deter illegal activities, particularly the landing of undocumented immigrants via small boats known as pangas. During a recent city council meeting, Knoblock shared that he, along with City Manager Andy Hall and technology staff, has met with Border Patrol agents multiple times to identify suitable locations for camera placement from the pier southward.
Knoblock emphasized the importance of this project, citing recent incidents of illegal landings on San Clemente beaches. “It’s a real serious concern,” he said, highlighting the need for increased security measures to protect the community. The proposed plan includes placing cameras at five key locations, potentially reducing the number of cameras needed due to some areas covering larger swaths.
The cameras are expected to be equipped with rotating telescopic lenses and thermal imaging for night viewing. They will be monitored by Border Patrol, with images also accessible to other law enforcement agencies and the Maritime Coordination Center in Long Beach. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to enhance coastal security and prevent smuggling and other criminal activities.
The project, which could make San Clemente the first coastal town in Orange County to implement such a setup, is still in the planning stages. The city is exploring funding options, including grants and city funds, to cover the costs. The plan will be presented to the city council for approval once the review of camera technology and costs is complete.
Knoblock’s proposal follows earlier efforts to address security concerns, including a suggestion to use community-operated infrared cameras, which was not well-received. Instead, the focus has shifted to partnering with federal agencies to ensure effective monitoring and response capabilities.
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