By Nicole Cosentino, Special Writer
The Skywatch Surveillance Program may be coming to South Brunswick.
Skywatch is a observation platform owned by Middlesex County that entails 20-foot-high scissors-lifted enclosed platform in order to oversee large crowds.
The county obtained the unit through a federal Department of Homeland Security grant and would make it available to the 25 towns in the county, according to officials.
Township Police Chief and President of the New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police Raymond Hayducka explained the idea to the Township Council during Tuesday night’s work session.
”I know there was some controversy in the thought of ‘big brother.’ That’s not the intent of this,” Mr. Hayducka said. “I think the name is kind of deceptive. The county is buying a DVD recorder and a public announcement system where you can actually use it as a camera.”
Mr. Hayducka continued on to say that the system would only be used at events with large crowds, such as the recent Independence Day celebration.
”As far as putting it out to spy on people,” Mr. Hayducka said. “I assure you that is not our intent. It’s really no different than any other piece of equipment that we use.”
Some benefits of the system include free training for police officers, Mr. Hayducka said.
”If we were to rent something like this, I’ve got prices of anywhere from $300 to $800 for the day,” Mr. Hayducka said. “It’s air-conditioned and enclosed. The county got it for free on grant.”
Chief Hayducka said that he would be glad to address anyone who has concerns, and they can email or make an appointment with him.
Councilman John O’Sullivan said he plans to vote against the Skywatch Surveillance Program when the resolution formally comes up July 24.
”I know you can keep an eye on people without being 20 feet in the air,” he said.
Councilman Charles Carley, however, didn’t see it as a big deal.
”This is a 20-foot scissors lift,” Mr. Carley said. “This is essentially what I painted my house with.”
Deputy Mayor Chris Killmurray said he supports the idea and mentioned the safety benefits it would provide the township.
”This could be useful at an event if kids are lost,” Mr. Killmurray said. “It could potentially save a life or document something worse. I hate to say it, but sometimes law enforcement needs to plan for the worst-case scenario.”
The majority of the council agreed to move the subject forward and will make a decision at its regular meeting on July 24.

