ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Declaring "this unprecedented partnership will increase public confidence in the body-worn camera program and make it an even more effective tool," Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren signed an agreement to offer up more information about the cameras assigned for police to wear on their uniforms.

Rochester Police Chief Michael Ciminelli says 500 cameras have been used by officers since March. He says they produce between 35,000 and 42,000 videos each month.

The city, police department and members of the Coalition for Police Reform and Community Justice Advisory Board on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding to ensure quick access to information about the program through Freedom of Information requests.

Coalition members will also learn about training and have regular meetings with police to maintain an open and transparent exchange of information. 

"When you talk bout community policing, our police department can't do it alone and we know that our community can't do it alone," Warren said. "So, developing a partnership and doing an MOU like this gives us an opportunity to formalize the fact that this is of importance and has risen to the occasion that we formalize so that both parties understand what their obligations are for information sharing."

The police union has raised several concerns, ranging from where the video data is stored, who is analyzing it, and the camera units themselves.

"These cameras are not functioning correctly, they increase a tremendous amount of workload on our people and there's nothing in place for the analysis of video," said Michael Mazzeo, Locust Club president.

Mazzeo said that, if the camera is not working, or the software not functioning correctly, there exists a reflex to blame the officers.

"I think there's some in this community who want to use body camera footage, throw it out on the news and say, 'look, they did something wrong,' they meaning the police," Mazzeo said. "It breaks down confidence of our people, their ability to do job on the street, and the fact that they feel unsupported."