A Texas city will hold a referendum in November regarding the continuation of Flock Safety's automated license plate reader cameras. The City Council voted unanimously to place the question on the ballot, marking a significant moment as it is believed to be one of the first instances in Texas where such a program is being put to a public vote.
The proposition will ask whether the city should maintain its use of Flock's cameras, which currently number 55 in operation, with an additional 16 awaiting permits from the Texas Department of Transportation. Although the referendum is non-binding, the City Council retains the authority to make the final decision on the program's future.
Mayor Nick Long, who proposed the referendum, presented arguments both for and against the cameras. He acknowledged their effectiveness in solving serious crimes, including murders, while also expressing concerns over privacy issues related to data access. The discussion surrounding the cameras has intensified following reported misuse by police in nearby cities, which has raised further privacy concerns.
In addition to the referendum, the city plans to introduce an online transparency portal and establish a citizens accountability committee to oversee the use of the cameras. The outcome of this vote could influence similar programs in other Texas cities, as many have adopted these systems without public input.
