The impetus behind this idea is Tremont St. resident Sandra White. She submitted a citizen’s petition article for town meeting requesting funds to buy such recording equipment. That article will probably be withdrawn since the recording capabilities can be added to the existing 934-5656 dispatch business lines for $300 to $500, according to police chief Mark Deluca. Because the cost is so low, town meeting action won’t be needed and the upgrades can take place without delay.

Deluca told selectmen Monday night that the current telephone system can be upgraded to record incoming and outgoing calls and will require no additional maintenance. However, Deluca did not feel his line or those used by detectives should be included. Detectives need the confidentiality and “to record each and every call would violate a lot of trust of the people of this community,” he said.

Selectmen favored the idea. Selectman John Tuffy said it made sense to record the business line, and for the price, he said: “I think it’s something we should do.”

Duxbury records all 911 emergency calls, as do all surrounding communities. Police departments in most neighboring towns also record their business lines. When asked why Duxbury has not done this previously, Deluca said he didn’t think it was necessary.

White wants the recording system because she believes it will bring accountability to the department.

“I have observed that there are huge problems with professionalism and accountability within our police department,” said White in a letter written to the town manager. “I feel that this telephone system with recording capabilities is a necessary first step in the process of documenting, and evaluating problems and complaints so that they can be monitored and remedied.”