BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) \u2014 The city of Bakersfield is looking to continue receiving patrol services for areas most impacted by crime until 2027, according to the Bakersfield City Council meeting agenda for Wednesday.<\/p>\n
The Bakersfield Police Department is asking the City Council to approve an amendment extending an existing agreement with Citiguard \u2014 a California security guard company \u2014 until Jan. 31, 2027. The amendment would also increase compensation by $1,284,000 for a new total of $4,766,948, the agenda said.<\/p>\n
A report submitted to the City Council by BPD Chief Greg Terry said Citiguard\u2019s high-visibility patrol services has helped the city enhance crime prevention.<\/p>\n
Watch \u2018After Sunrise\u2019 on KGET+; Click to learn how to get KGET+ on your smart TV devices <\/a><\/p>\n The cost for patrol services would be funded by BPD\u2019s Public Safety & Vital Services allocations, according to city officials.<\/p>\n On Sept. 11, 2019, the City Council voted to add private security patrols in areas most impacted by increased crime, according to the agenda.<\/p>\n This pilot project produced positive results, the agenda said, as adding high-visibility patrol in areas with higher crime rates showed a \u201cmeasurable impact\u201d in reducing crime.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is the intent of the Bakersfield Police Department to continue and expand the use of private security contractors for patrolling (vehicle, bicycle and foot) identified areas where activities which diminish quality of life of community members occur,\u201d the agenda read.<\/p>\n In November of 2022, the Bakersfield Police Department sought candidates to continue private security patrols throughout the city.<\/p>\n BPD determined Citiguard would best meet the city\u2019s demands and requirements, according to the agenda.<\/p>\n