New Hanover County Board of Commissioners Special Meeting - September 8, 2026

The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on September 8, 2026, primarily to discuss the contract with FLAC regarding stationary Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras. After community concerns about privacy and mass surveillance were raised, the board unanimously voted 4-0 to cancel the contract for the stationary ALPR cameras managed by the sheriff's office. The commissioners emphasized the need for stronger guardrails, protections, and criminal liability for misuse before considering future use of such technology. The cancellation applies specifically to ALPR cameras under the county's contract and does not affect other ALPR devices controlled by state or other entities. Legal counsel was involved to ensure proper handling of the contract termination with the sheriff's office.