Local Governments Split Over Flock Safety Surveillance Cameras

Local governments in Illinois are taking opposing paths regarding the deployment of automated license-plate reader technology provided by Flock Safety. On August 12, the North Branch City Council unanimously voted to indefinitely halt the installation of these cameras and requested the removal of three non-operational units. This reversal follows a May 13 vote that had approved a $63,000 contract for seven cameras. Mayor Kevin Schieber supported the pause, arguing that implementing a system lacking community trust costs the city more than it returns.

Conversely, the Will County Board voted Thursday to approve the installation of Flock Safety cameras on county highways across Mokena, Crete, Manhattan, Frankfort, Naperville, and Wilmington. The board rejected the measure for Beecher and added language allowing participating municipalities to withdraw from the agreement.

The Will County decision followed a heated debate over surveillance and potential misuse. Opponents, including board member Destinee Ortiz, cited concerns regarding immigration enforcement, reproductive health care, and reports of officers using the technology for stalking. Law enforcement officials and supporters like board member Frankie Pretzel argued the technology is essential for safety. In response to the controversy, the approved municipalities have recently adopted stricter policies governing the use of the cameras.