San Clemente has become the first Orange County city to allow U.S. Customs and Border Protection to install a surveillance system to monitor the coast. It’s a measure that has caused controversy. Officials say the high-powered camera will be on the lookout for panga boats and will help crack down on illegal immigration.
The camera was approved by San Clemente’s city council in a 3-1-1 vote on Tuesday night. One council member abstained from voting.
“It’s a serious public safety issue, not only for the community, but for the people that are being smuggled ashore,” said San Clemente Mayor Pro Tem Steve Knoblock…