Automated License Plate Recognition (Flock Cameras)

Expressed strong opposition to Flock cameras, citing FBI plans to purchase nationwide ALPR access and potential liability lawsuits faced by other municipalities.

An Amherst resident who commutes through Cheektowaga warned about ALPR data hacking risks and urged the town to avoid signing contracts with vendors lacking strong privacy safeguards.

Questioned why the town is expanding Flock cameras without answering prior citizen concerns, noted FOIL discrepancies regarding data ownership, and reiterated support for the New York Health Act.

Voiced opposition to Flock camera expansion due to transparency portal discrepancies, biased camera placement in non-white neighborhoods, and lack of crime reduction evidence.

Questioned contract cost details for additional Flock cameras, noted liability concerns prompting other cities to cancel contracts, and urged an immediate vote on the New York Health Act resolution.

During the second public comment period, reviewed Lexipol police policy language regarding ALPR usage, vague purging standards, and advanced technological features like vehicle fingerprinting.

Contrasted voluntary personal technology use with mandatory road surveillance, criticized using technology to offset police staffing shortages, and raised equity concerns over neighborhood surveillance.