During the Regular City Council Meeting held on July 8, 2025, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, significant discussions centered around the approval of a contract for license plate readers, a technology aimed at enhancing public safety. The council unanimously approved a contract with Flock Safety for $21,900, which will be funded through restricted donations to the police department.

The police chief presented the proposal, emphasizing the potential benefits of the license plate readers. These devices are intended to assist in locating missing persons and identifying vehicles involved in crimes, without issuing traffic citations. The chief reassured council members that the technology would not infringe on privacy rights, as it operates within legal parameters established by federal rulings.

However, the discussion was not without controversy. A member of the public raised concerns regarding an ongoing federal lawsuit that questions the legality of such surveillance technologies under the Fourth Amendment. This prompted a response from Flock representatives, who argued that the technology does not constitute mass surveillance and is legally permissible. They highlighted that similar systems are already in use in various Oklahoma communities, including Muskogee and Locust Grove, where they have reportedly been effective.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, citing personal experiences where such technology could have provided timely assistance in emergencies. The police chief noted that the funding for the initial investment is secure, with plans for future operational costs to be managed through existing restricted funds.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of the contract, marking a significant step towards implementing this technology in Tahlequah. As the city moves forward, the council will continue to monitor the implications of this decision, particularly in light of ongoing legal challenges surrounding surveillance practices.