Stoughton Development News

Stoton City Council Debates Flock Camera Contract Amidst Public Concerns

The Stoton City Council heard public comment and a presentation from the Police Department regarding the city's contract with Flock Safety for automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. Residents expressed significant concerns about privacy, data security, potential misuse, and the lack of transparency in the decision-making process. The Police Department presented the capabilities and safeguards of the ALPR system, emphasizing its use for criminal investigations and locating missing persons, while also clarifying what the system does not do. The city attorney reviewed the contract, stating the city owns the data, which is stored for 30 days and then deleted, and that data is not shared with federal agencies unless a valid subpoena is issued. Alders discussed the contract terms, potential for early termination, and the network effect of ALPR systems. A decision on the contract was not made, with discussions to continue and further review by a committee proposed.