Crime Analyst Breanna Lingo monitoring video from Project Green Light Detroit locations. Photo by City of Detroit

Fresno City Councilmembers Luis Chavez and Mike Karbassi on Tuesday announced a new measure to help fight retail and property theft.

The pair will tender a $100,000 budget amendment to finance a pilot program known as Project Spolight. The project involves installing real-time camera connections at eight local retail businesses hard-hit by crime that available for viewing at the Fresno Police Department’s real-time crime center.

The project is based on the successful implementation of Project Green Light in Detroit, Michigan, where Chavez visited earlier this year.

The Detroit program began with the placement of cameras, signage and even a green flashing “beacon” at eight gas stations in 2016. Since its launch, there are more than 550 participating commercial businesses.

The City of Detroit said on its website that incidents of violent crime were reduced by 23% at all sites and 48% at the original eight sites.

For Fresno’s Project Spotlight, the budget appropriation will fund the installation of cameras at chosen retail sites, technical assistance in connecting cameras to Fresno PD’s center and a Project Spotlight beacon to denote participation in the pilot.

“For too long, local businesses in Fresno have become victims to repeat organized theft and other property crimes,” stated Fresno City Councilmember Mike Karbassi. “Project Spotlight has a demonstrated record of success in tackling property crimes.”

The City of Detroit estimates the cost for businesses to participate ranges from $4,000-$6,000 for the purchase of cameras from approved vendors. The cost to lease cameras goes from $130-$180 per month plus a $450-$1,000 installation cost.

In Detroit, signage is mandatory and costs $400-$650. A green, flashing beacon to indicate the business is part of the program ranges from $400-$500. The business is also required to maintain internet coverage fast enough to accommodate high-definition streaming.

“Keeping a watchful eye on our community with Project Spotlight the first step to preventing property crimes, which ensures our officers patrolling the city are focusing on the highest- priority neighborhoods to keep residents safe,” Fresno City Councilmember Luis Chavez said.