Public commenters press council about Flock ALPR surveillance and data access

Multiple public commenters urged the city to re-examine its use of Flock automated license-plate reader technology and to increase transparency about access to data and audits. One speaker said the city has spent more than $1,000,000 on mass surveillance systems and alleged the Richmond Police Department previously shared ALPR data in ways that violated state rules. The remarks emphasized national examples of misuse and expressed concern that federal access could be facilitated by municipal contracts.

A coalition speaker summarized the core concerns: "City council has not been transparent, honest, or accountable about its usage of mass surveillance, particularly on the issue of FLOC ALPR cameras... Over 1,000,000 dollars have been spent on mass surveillance." Commenters asked the council to withhold applause and urged an immediate audit or temporary disabling of cameras ahead of the midterm elections to ensure data is not accessible improperly. Council acknowledged the concerns and indicated the administration and police would follow up.