New security system approved in Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach commissioners unanimously approved a proposal for a $29,000 town security system by ADT Commercial to update cameras and replace antennas to improve visibility.

Town Manager Bill Zolper said American Rescue Plan Act funds were originally not approved for this type of use, but changes in federal requirements now allow for it, according to attorneys who approved the request. The upgrades would have nothing to do with the security system inside town hall, Zolper said.

The town was designated $215,000 in ARPA funding based on its year-round census of 400 people, Zolper said in December.

Commissioner Elisabeth Gibbings said she had no issue with ADT staff staying overnight to complete the job, but she questioned where in Dewey Beach three people would stay overnight for the estimated cost of $2,419.

Police Chief Sam Mackert said the crew would consist of a supervisor and two technicians who would be traveling from Columbia, Md. The crew would need at least two days to finish the job, Mackert said, and he added that he could call ADT and ask about lowering the cost.

Commissioner David Jasinski said travel expenses are typically estimated, not fixed. He motioned to approve the proposal provided that all travel expenses are billed as actual expenses, with the cap being the $2,419 listed in the quote; Gibbings seconded the motion.

After the meeting, Zolper said he clarified with ADT that the $2,419 estimate would be not just for an overnight stay, but for at least a four-night stay for three technicians who would need five days to complete the job. ADT will provide receipts to document the actual overnight costs, Zolper said.