City Council Work Session: June 17, 2026

The City of Eugene City Council held a work session on June 17, 2026, focused on surveillance technologies used by the city, existing policies, and considerations for developing a comprehensive surveillance technology policy. Staff presented an inventory of current camera-based and other surveillance technologies, including fixed and portable security cameras, drones, in-car and body-worn police cameras, and automated license plate recognition systems. The discussion included emerging technologies such as automated red light and speed cameras, which are under evaluation for potential future deployment. Council members emphasized the need for a citywide surveillance policy that includes public input, transparency, and risk-based assessments, referencing models from Berkeley, Portland, and San Jose. The council expressed interest in a phased approach to policy development, aiming for a policy framework within six months and full implementation over a longer timeline. The session also touched on recent state legislation (Senate Bill 1516) governing law enforcement use of automated license plate recognition, highlighting its role in setting standards for privacy and accountability. No specific contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this session, but the council indicated that future technology acquisitions would require policy review and council approval.