Concerns over the City of Ferndale's Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) policy took center stage during the recent City Council meeting, as officials grappled with the implications of opting into a national lookup system. The discussion revealed significant unease about data sharing practices and the potential for misuse of sensitive information.

Council members questioned the current ALPR policy, which allows access to the city's data by other law enforcement agencies that are also part of the national lookup system. Chief of Police emphasized that while the system was designed to aid investigations—particularly in urgent cases like missing persons—there are growing concerns about the lack of stringent safeguards. "It feels like we've eliminated one of those protections that we had thought was in place," one council member remarked, highlighting fears that the policy may have inadvertently opened the door to unfettered access to Ferndale's data.

The chief acknowledged that the policy had evolved since its inception in 2023, noting that the ease of access for other agencies could compromise the city's values. "We may need to look at changing the policy," he stated, indicating a willingness to reassess the balance between effective policing and community trust.

Public sentiment echoed these concerns, with residents expressing distrust towards the Flock company, which operates the ALPR system. Several speakers pointed to troubling reports of Flock's practices in other municipalities, including allegations of data misuse and failure to comply with removal agreements. "Flock is not a good actor," one resident asserted, urging the council to reconsider its partnership with the company.

As the council deliberates the future of the ALPR program, the need for transparency and accountability remains paramount. The chief committed to providing more detailed audits of data access and usage, but the path forward will require careful navigation of community values and law enforcement needs. The council plans to revisit the policy and explore options that align with the city's commitment to safeguarding civil liberties while ensuring public safety.