Take Action Against ALPRs

Subject: Concerns about the Flock Safety camera program in [Township/Borough]

Two whom it may concern,

I'm writing as a resident of [Township/Borough] because I'm concerned about the Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras that have been installed in our area.

I understand these systems are often pitched as a tool to help solve crime, but I don't think we've had a real public conversation about the tradeoffs. A few things I'd like our local government to address:

• Cost and effectiveness: These contracts run around $3,000 per camera, per year. Has the township looked at whether this spending has actually reduced crime, or are we paying for a sense of security without evidence it works?
• Data sharing: Flock's network allows license plate data to be shared across agencies statewide and nationally by default. I'd like to know exactly who has access to data collected on our roads, how long it's retained, and whether our township has opted out of any of that sharing.
• Oversight and policy: Does the township have a written policy governing how this data can be used, who can access it, and what happens if it's misused? If so, I'd like to request a copy. If not, I think one should be in place before any further expansion of the program.
• Security track record: Flock has had documented security vulnerabilities and misuse incidents in other jurisdictions. I'd like to know what safeguards are in place here.

I'm not asking anyone to take my word for it; I'd just like these questions answered publicly, ideally at an upcoming meeting, and I'd support the township publishing its Flock-related contracts and policies so residents can see them for themselves.

Thank you for your time and for representing our community. I'd appreciate a response, and I'm happy to discuss this further if that's helpful.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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