The city of Flagstaff will now require everyone to go through metal detectors when attending council meetings. They are already used in many major cities in Arizona.
The funding to buy OpenGate weapon and metal detectors was a part of this year’s budget for the city.
Flagstaff officials reportedly looked to other local governments in deciding to implement the devices.
Before they were installed this year, Flagstaff police searched bags by hand.
Scott Overton is the city’s Public Works director.
“Sometimes there are controversial topics. We have not had an issue. Um, we just simply know that best practice says to try to use as much technology as possible, and we think this is a nice, simple improvement," Overton said.
Cities like Phoenix, Glendale and Tucson have used detectors for years. Flagstaff has no more plans for security upgrades or improvements for council chambers at this time.
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