ALPR Community Briefing - August 27, 2026

The City of Renton held a community briefing on August 27, 2026, to discuss the use and oversight of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, specifically focusing on the Flock Safety system installed at major intersections. The briefing covered the history of ALPR use in the city, contract details including an $80,000 annual cost for technology and equipment lease, and compliance with Washington State's Senate Bill 6002, which regulates ALPR use, data retention, and privacy protections. The city emphasized safeguards such as mandatory search criteria, audits, and data encryption to prevent misuse and unauthorized access, including blocking federal agency access. The briefing also addressed community concerns about privacy, accuracy, and potential misuse, and highlighted the system's role in aiding investigations of serious crimes. The city plans to implement third-party audits and renegotiate contracts to ensure full compliance with state law and maintain transparency and accountability in ALPR operations.