League City is set to ask its voters in November whether to continue using Flock Safety's automated license plate reader cameras, following a unanimous vote by the City Council. This referendum is believed to be among the first of its kind in Texas, drawing attention from cities across the state that utilize similar systems.
The ballot will inquire if the city should maintain its current use of Flock's cameras, which includes 55 active units and an additional 16 pending permits. Although the referendum is non-binding, the City Council will retain the authority to make the final decision regarding the program's future.
Mayor Nick Long, who proposed the referendum, acknowledged both the effectiveness of the cameras in solving serious crimes and the significant privacy concerns they raise. The discussion around privacy has intensified following reported misuse of the cameras by police officers in nearby cities, leading to resignations.
In addition to the referendum, League City plans to establish an online transparency portal to detail camera usage and create a citizens accountability committee for oversight. The outcome of this vote will serve as a significant indicator of public sentiment regarding such surveillance technology across Texas.
