The San Clemente City Council has approved a significant partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to install a maritime surveillance system valued at approximately $1 million. This system will be strategically positioned on a hilltop, providing a comprehensive view of vessel activity from Dana Point Harbor to Camp Pendleton in San Diego County.
The approval, finalized during a council meeting on November 19, 2023, comes after a year of discussions and public hearings. The lease agreement permits the federal agency to occupy a 12-by-12-foot area at the Avenida Salvador Reservoir for just $10 per month. This long-term lease spans up to 30 years, ensuring that CBP has guaranteed access to the monitoring equipment, which is expected to be operational by the end of February 2024.
The surveillance system will consist of advanced camera and sensor technology designed to monitor ocean activity along the city’s coastline. While city staff will not have direct access to the footage, they will be able to receive information regarding any vessels in distress, which can then be relayed to local law enforcement agencies for emergency response.
Public concern over privacy issues played a pivotal role in the discussions leading up to the council’s decision. At least 21 residents voiced opposition to the plan during public hearings, raising alarms about potential invasions of privacy. Councilmember Mark Enmeier expressed his apprehension about the intrusion that such a system could pose, stating, “I believe there is another path we can take that doesn’t have cameras overlooking our residents.” He suggested exploring alternative safety measures through collaboration with lifeguards and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
The proposal for the surveillance system emerged as a more efficient solution compared to installing multiple cameras along the shoreline. City officials noted that a higher elevation vantage point would provide superior monitoring capabilities. The infrastructure will include a tower standing between 20 to 25 feet tall, equipped to handle the technological demands of the system.
The council’s vote ultimately passed with the support of Councilmembers Victor Cabral, Rick Loeffler, and Enmeier. Councilmember Zhen Wu abstained, indicating his preference for a different approach to coastal security. During discussions, Councilmember Knoblock emphasized that civil liberties must be respected, stating, “Our civil liberties do not go away just because the federal government is doing their job in a way that some of us might not like.”
With this new surveillance initiative, San Clemente joins other coastal cities utilizing similar technologies for monitoring purposes. The decision reflects a growing trend in employing advanced surveillance systems to enhance maritime safety while navigating the complexities of privacy rights. As the city prepares for the installation, the balance between security needs and community concerns remains a crucial topic for local officials and residents alike.
