Johnston City Council Workshop - October 5, 2026

The City of Johnston City Council held a workshop on October 5, 2026, to review the police department’s automated license plate reader (ALPR) program. Police staff described the program’s 22 cameras, investigative and alert functions, reported outcomes, data safeguards, and oversight procedures. The system is provided by Flock; the department said it shares camera data only with approved Iowa law enforcement agencies, does not permit use for immigration enforcement, retains routine data for 30 days, and conducts monthly audits. No spending or procurement action was taken at the workshop.

The council discussed upcoming contract expirations and future options. Contracts covering 16 of the 22 cameras are expected to expire at the end of the fiscal year, while another contract runs through June 2028. Staff anticipate bringing forward a future budget request to continue operating up to 22 cameras, with a rough estimate of about $70,000, and are evaluating other vendors and possible side-by-side system options. The council expects to consider the program’s funding level and vendor alternatives in the coming months; no motion or vote was made.