City of Gardner Council Meeting 08/17/2026

The City of Gardner, Kansas held a council meeting on August 17, 2026, where significant discussion focused on the city's use of Flock Safety license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. Public comments raised concerns about privacy, surveillance, and the lack of a formal policy governing the technology. In response, the police chief reported that a new policy had been published, restricting access and auditing usage, and recommended non-renewal of the Flock contract. The council reached a consensus to discontinue the Flock cameras, noting the contract could be ended without penalty and that some cameras were not even deployed. Additionally, the council approved a non-binding memorandum of understanding for a development project called Velocity, which includes potential incentives and infrastructure planning, with further details pending state authorization of star bonds. The meeting also included resolutions to initiate eminent domain proceedings for property acquisition related to street improvement projects. The council unanimously passed these resolutions and expressed support for the development project and the decision to end the Flock contract.