League City will place a referendum on the ballot in November regarding the continuation of Flock Safety's automated license plate reader cameras. This decision follows a unanimous vote by the City Council, as reported by FOX 26 Houston.
The outcome is significant, as it marks one of the first instances in Texas where a city has sought voter input on such a program, with implications for other municipalities across the state.
The ballot will inquire whether the city should maintain its current use of Flock's cameras, which includes 55 operational units and 16 awaiting permits from the Texas Department of Transportation. While the referendum is non-binding, the City Council will retain the authority to decide the program's fate afterward.
Mayor Nick Long, who proposed the referendum, acknowledged the effectiveness of the cameras in solving serious crimes, including murders. However, he also expressed concerns about privacy, citing potential issues with data access by both the city and the company.
This move comes in response to recent reports of misuse of Flock cameras in nearby cities, prompting discussions about privacy. To enhance transparency, League City plans to establish an online portal detailing camera usage and form a citizens accountability committee for oversight. The outcome of this referendum could set a precedent for how similar systems are managed throughout Texas.
