Lake County votes to revoke license‑plate‑reader permits in county rights of way

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners voted Sept. 1 to direct county staff to revoke any authorization for automatic license‑plate readers in county rights of way, following more than two hours of public comment and commissioner debate. Commissioner Sabatini moved the action, saying the systems are an "invasion of privacy" and noting recent statewide reversals by other jurisdictions; the board instructed staff to follow permit timelines for removal.

Supporters of the motion said ALPRs and related camera networks create permanent, searchable travel records and raise cybersecurity risks. "These cameras log each and every vehicle that passes and build a permanent record of travel," said CJ Blansett, a retired criminal investigator who spoke during public comment. Opponents and some commissioners noted law‑enforcement uses, including Amber and Silver Alerts, but the board voted to proceed with revocation and to notify permit holders of any required removal windows.

The decision follows testimony from more than two dozen residents who urged the county to act, citing examples of misidentification, cross‑sharing of data, and national scrutiny of vendors. The board also voted to invite the sheriff to a dedicated meeting to present law‑enforcement needs and answer public questions. Staff will return with the practical steps for rescinding right‑of‑way permissions and a timeline that complies with existing permit conditions.