A plan by El Cerrito's police chief to require just about every business in the city to install a digital video surveillance system to deter crime is getting a warm response from business and political leaders.

Before he asks the City Council to turn his proposal into law later this summer, Police Chief Scott Kirkland plans to hold three community forums this month to get feedback.

Kirkland began toying with the idea of camera surveillance in 2005, but after an owner of the Red Onion restaurant on San Pablo Avenue was murdered during a robbery April 24, he decided to make it happen.

Kirkland wants to develop a list of digital cameras, lenses and media storage for business owners to install. Older, tape-based systems are not useful in identifying criminals, Kirkland said in a written statement.

City spokeswoman Suzanne Iarla said information on camera prices and types will be available at the forums.

Kirkland wants the cameras installed in all retail and wholesale businesses that require a use permit, including liquor stores, gun shops, pawnshops, check-cashing outlets and fast-food restaurants. Not all businesses require a use permit.