In response to a recent rise in commercial burglaries and break-ins, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce and Special Service Area 31 have established a new security camera rebate program. The goal of this program is to help deter crime, assist authorities in identifying criminals, an increase pedestrian safety. Eligible businesses can receive a rebate of 100% of the total costs of qualifying cameras, with a maximum rebate of $1,000.
By improving security for small businesses, the program aims to strengthen Ravenswood’s standing as a commercial destination for entrepreneurs and shoppers. This funding will assist local businesses looking to install new or upgrade security cameras. It will also aid businesses who would otherwise be unable to make such improvements. The program is open to all businesses owners located within the boundaries of Special Service Area 31 – Greater Ravenswood.
A Response to Recent Conditions
Over the last several months, Ravenswood small businesses have reported an increased number of commercial burglaries and break-ins. Several local businesses have been targeted multiple times in that period. “With more than one recent crime spree ending in our community, business owners have been understandably frustrated and they’re looking for assistance,” said Gene Wagendorf III, Associate Director at the GRCC.
In April, GRCC partnered with the 19th District Police Council to host a Public Safety Meeting with local business leaders. This meeting focused on brainstorming short term, immediate solutions to address the recent uptick of crime in the area. Among the suggestions offered by GRCC was the relaunch of SSA 31’s old security rebate program, which funded security equipment upgrades for local businesses. The SSA discontinued the in 2015 due to lack of use.
Following the meeting, GRCC surveyed area businesses about their interest in new security cameras. “After that meeting, our staff prioritized getting input from more businesses,” said Wagedorf. “We also starting checking in with colleagues at other chambers to discuss successful camera rebate programs in their communities. We gained insight into what demand looks like in other neighborhoods and learned things like what level of video quality is necessary to be useful for CPD. We’re pleased to present a new Ravenswood Security Camera Rebate Program responds to feedback from local businesses, law enforcement officials, and other business services organizations.”
How to Apply
Applications for the Ravenswood Security Camera Rebate Program opened on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. GRCC will award rebates in the order applications are received through November 30, 2024 or until program funding runs out. For more information and to apply, click here.
