Municipal and Public Affairs Committee Meeting 2026.10.29

The City of Binghamton Municipal and Public Affairs Committee met on October 29, 2026, to discuss the city’s automated license plate reader (ALPR) system, including a stated $110,000 amount associated with the ALPRs. Committee members raised concerns about Flock, the current vendor, particularly reports of misuse and the possibility of external access to data. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor said the city should evaluate vendors methodically, considering cost, operational needs, safeguards, and the ability to comply with potential future state requirements. No vendor change or contract award was approved at the meeting; the Mayor retained procurement decision authority while expressing willingness to work with Council on the review.

The Mayor agreed to have Binghamton Police Department conduct a vendor comparison, consult Binghamton University about its process, and provide an analysis to Council; the comparison may include Flock and alternatives, with potential cost savings and contract safeguards considered. Members identified December 20 as the current non-renewal notice date and asked for a progress discussion around the end of November. The discussion also covered possible independent review of ALPR access logs and the prospect that future state rules could affect vendor requirements and costs. The committee approved a motion to adjourn; no procurement vote was taken.