Bartlesville City Council debates FLOCK camera technology and special election proposal

A heated debate over the use of Flock cameras in Bartlesville took center stage at the City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, as council members grappled with the implications of surveillance technology on community privacy and safety. The discussion was marked by strong opinions, with some council members advocating for the cameras as a necessary tool for public safety, while others raised concerns about potential violations of civil liberties.

Council member Tim Sherrick proposed a resolution to allow voters to decide whether to continue using Flock cameras, emphasizing the need for public input on such a significant issue. "We need to preserve the liberty of the people," Sherrick stated, urging that the decision should not solely rest with the council. He highlighted the importance of transparency, suggesting that the public should have access to audit data related to the cameras, which are intended to enhance community safety through increased surveillance.

However, the conversation quickly turned contentious as other council members questioned the motivations behind the push for a public vote. Concerns were raised about the influence of political groups, particularly the Washington County Republican Party, which reportedly supports the resolution against Flock cameras. "This is not just a vocal minority; this group represents 67% of Bartlesville voters," Sherrick countered, defending the resolution's backing.

The debate also touched on the broader implications of data privacy, with council members expressing skepticism about how data collected from the cameras would be managed and shared. "What do you think they're gonna do with it? Do you think they're gonna delete it when we say so?" one member questioned, highlighting fears of long-term surveillance and data misuse.

As the council moved towards a vote on Sherrick's motion to call a special election on the matter, the tension in the room was palpable. The proposed election date is set for June 10, 2025, which will allow residents to weigh in on the future of Flock cameras in their community. The outcome of this vote could significantly impact how surveillance technology is utilized in Bartlesville, making it a pivotal moment for local governance and citizen rights.