Lebanon City Council 9/8/26

The Lebanon City Council meeting held on September 8, 2026, included significant discussions regarding the city's use of Flock automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. Public concerns were raised about privacy, data security, and potential misuse of surveillance data. The police chief defended the system as a valuable investigative tool with strict access controls and auditing to prevent abuse. Council members debated the trustworthiness of the vendor and the contractual obligations involved. A motion to terminate the Flock camera contract was proposed but failed with a 3-4 vote. Subsequently, the council approved a motion to allow city staff to investigate the contract further and prepare a 30-day termination notice if appropriate, with a decision expected by the next meeting. Additionally, the council approved several ordinances including a pre-annexation agreement with MI Homes, a phone system upgrade contract with Vertical Communications, a zoning map amendment for a professional office development, and a property purchase related to road widening. A resolution was also passed to support a community garden on city-owned land. The meeting reflected active procurement and contract management activities, particularly concerning surveillance technology and infrastructure improvements.