The Selma City Council is considering a measure that would require nightclubs to install security cameras.

We thing that’s a good idea and hope the measures becomes a reality.

Just this year, we have reported on several concerning events at nightclubs.

On Easter Sunday, a 30-year-old Selma woman was shot at a club on Washington Street. Police issued an arrest warrant for a 22-year-old suspect.

Just a few days earlier, two would-be robbers were arrested after trying to rob a club on Race Street. One of the two suspects was shot in the chaos and was fortunate to escape with his life.

It’s impossible to say whether security cameras would have prevented these incidents, but they obviously could only help in these situations.

Cameras could be a deterrent for a would-be criminal thinking of robbing or causing trouble at nightclubs.

They also provide clear, unbiased evidence of events during situations where eyewitness testimony might be clouded.

We have no problem with the clubs themselves. However, every step should be taken to ensure that their patrons have a safe, enjoyable night on the town.

Safety downtown and making sure those who visit Water Avenue and other nightspots feel secure is paramount in efforts to revitalize the city’s entertainment district.

A prime, riverfront location with a historic hotel and brand new amphitheater are great attractions, but they won’t be enough to keep people coming back if they don’t feel safe.

The cameras will offer key evidence for the rare times that a crime does occur and peace of mind too.

While the cameras do come with a cost, business owners should view the cameras as an asset that will protect their businesses and customers.

The city and nightclub owners have had a cooperative relationship in the past, and we hope that continues with this measure.

To that end, club owners should be given time, but no more than a year, to buy the equipment and get it installed.

The bottom line is the same for the city and club owners, to keep patrons safe and coming back to have a good time and spend money in Selma.