Garfield Re-2 Approves $900,000 District-Wide Security Camera Upgrade

More than half of the project funded through grants

At its October 22, 2025, meeting, the Garfield Re-2 School District Board of Directors approved a district-wide upgrade to the security camera system, investing nearly $900,000 to enhance safety across all schools.

Thanks to a $234,000 Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) grant and a $300,000 Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District (GCFMLD) grant, more than half of the project will be covered through outside funding. The District and taxpayers will contribute approximately $375,000 toward the total cost.

“This is a project we’ve been working on for almost two years,” said Technology Director Roger Gose. “It’s been a top priority for our district leaders, principals, and community, and we’re finally in a position to move forward.”

Garfield Re-2 first installed security cameras in 2005, when the district served about 4,000 students across eight schools. As the district expanded, cameras were added over time—resulting in a patchwork of different makes, models, and an outdated video platform.

The upgrade will modernize the system with more than 400 Verkada cameras, new software, and updated hardware. Installation is expected to begin in November and be completed by early 2026. The new system will provide comprehensive interior and exterior coverage of every school, with intentional privacy safeguards built in.

Gose told the Board that his goal was to find a reliable, capable, and affordable solution—but the final proposal exceeded expectations.

“Honestly, we’re looking at more of a Cadillac, what our kids really deserve,” he said. “This is a very modern, up-to-date system at more of a Yugo price. When you factor in the grant funding, it’s an incredible value.”

Before the proposal reached the Board, building principals were invited to share input on areas of greatest need—a step that earned praise from board members.

“My number one thing was to make sure you got (principal) input on where the problem areas are. And so to hear you did that, makes me happy,” said Jenkins. “Everybody I've talked to in the community is very pleased, very happy. Our kids deserve it. It's long overdue.”

About the Grants
The BEST Grant Program was created by the Colorado General Assembly in 2008 to help school districts address health, safety, and security needs in public school facilities. It is funded through the State Land Trust, Colorado Lottery revenues, and marijuana excise taxes.

The Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District (GCFMLD) was established in 2011 by the Garfield County Board of Commissioners. It uses federal mineral lease funds to support the planning, construction, and maintenance of public facilities and services across the county.