The Clearlake City Council convened on December 7, 2023, to discuss a significant proposal regarding the city’s automated license plate reader (ALPR) system. Chief of Police presented a resolution to enter into a five-year contract with Flock Safety for the maintenance and operation of the ALPR cameras, which are crucial for enhancing public safety in the community.

Currently, Clearlake has 30 stationary ALPR cameras installed throughout the city, which have been instrumental in crime prevention and investigation. The Chief highlighted that the city has been operating on a year-to-year agreement with Flock Safety, but recent developments indicated a substantial increase in costs for those not on a long-term contract. By committing to a five-year agreement, the city could keep its operational costs relatively stable, increasing only slightly from $55,480 to $55,880 annually.

The Chief emphasized the effectiveness of the ALPR system, noting that 70% of crimes involve motor vehicles. Since the deployment of these cameras, the city has seen a 244% increase in arrests related to vehicle theft and possession of stolen vehicles. The data collected by the ALPR system has also aided in solving serious crimes, including homicides and kidnappings, demonstrating its value in enhancing law enforcement capabilities.

In addition to the ALPR discussion, the Chief mentioned potential future expansions of the camera system to include fire detection capabilities, which would complement existing safety measures in the area.

While the proposal received support for its potential to improve public safety, it also sparked debate among council members. The Vice Mayor expressed strong opposition to ALPR systems, citing concerns about privacy and surveillance, despite acknowledging the thoughtful implementation by the police department.

The council's decision on the resolution will have lasting implications for public safety and community trust in law enforcement practices. As the city moves forward, the outcomes of this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping Clearlake's approach to crime prevention and community safety.