During a recent city council meeting in Little Rock, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed $864,500 contract with Axon Enterprises for a surveillance program known as \"Eyes on Little Rock.\" Critics raised concerns about the allocation of funds, arguing that the investment in surveillance technology would not address the root causes of crime and could exacerbate existing inequalities.

One speaker highlighted the disparity between police salaries and the median household income in Arkansas, questioning the need for additional funding for law enforcement when many residents struggle to meet basic needs. They emphasized that facial recognition technology is often unreliable, particularly for people of color, and expressed fears about privacy and data security, citing past vulnerabilities of third-party camera systems to hacking.

Another community advocate, representing a nonprofit organization, stressed the urgent need for resources to address food insecurity and housing rather than investing in surveillance. They argued that providing basic necessities would be more effective in reducing crime than monitoring residents.

Several speakers pointed out that a significant portion of the city’s budget is already allocated to public safety, while essential services like education and mental health support receive far less funding. They urged city leaders to redirect resources towards community development initiatives that could foster long-term safety and well-being.

Concerns were also raised about the implications of increased surveillance on civil liberties, particularly in light of potential future political climates. A lawyer and policing researcher warned that expanded surveillance capabilities could lead to the targeting of vulnerable populations and the erosion of trust between the community and law enforcement.

The meeting concluded with a call for city leaders to reconsider the proposed contract and to engage more meaningfully with community members about their needs and priorities. Many speakers expressed a desire for a more democratic process that reflects the voices of Little Rock residents, emphasizing that true public safety comes from addressing systemic issues rather than increasing surveillance.