Franklin Township Council Meeting - 8/11/2026

The Franklin Township Council meeting held on August 11, 2026, included a significant presentation and public discussion regarding the procurement and use of the Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) system provided by Flock Safety. The Public Safety Director and a Flock representative detailed the system's capabilities, data retention policies, privacy safeguards, and its use in criminal investigations. The system, funded by a $339,000 state grant and consisting of 22 cameras, is intended to enhance public safety by aiding in the rapid resolution of crimes and locating missing persons. The council addressed numerous public concerns about privacy, data security, potential misuse, and the contract terms with Flock, including questions about data ownership, audit processes, and the possibility of future surveillance expansions. The council emphasized that the system is audited quarterly and monthly, with strict access controls and compliance with New Jersey laws. Additionally, the meeting covered other procurement-related items such as the introduction and adoption of ordinances on cannabis regulation, short-term rentals, land development, and the private sale of township-owned lands to Habitat for Humanity. A resolution was also adopted to award a contract for the East Millstone Water Main Installation project, valued at nearly $1.065 million, aimed at improving water system connectivity. The council noted that a contract award for a park construction project was pending due to funding mechanism confirmation. The meeting concluded with an executive session on litigation matters.