Safety Committee - July 7 2026

The Cleveland City Council Public Safety Committee convened on July 7, 2026, to discuss ordinance 683-2026 concerning the renewal of a contract with Flock Safety for automated license plate readers (ALPRs). The meeting featured extensive public testimony both supporting and opposing the use of Flock's ALPR technology, with proponents emphasizing its role in solving violent crimes, recovering stolen vehicles, and enhancing public safety amid reduced police staffing. Opponents raised concerns about privacy violations, potential misuse of data, lack of transparency, and the involvement of federal agencies, urging the council to reject the contract renewal. The administration and police officials presented data indicating a statistically significant increase in case closure rates following Flock's implementation and described safeguards including data retention limits, audit capabilities, and restricted access. The council discussed amendments to include wrongful stop and arrest prevention safeguards and committed to enhanced transparency measures such as a public data reporting portal. The committee voted to approve the ordinance as amended, allocating approximately $250,000 for a one-year contract with Flock Safety, while also planning to issue a future RFP to ensure the best technology procurement.