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Police present first annual surveillance technology report required by ordinance; report posted online
Summary
Columbia Police presented its first annual surveillance technology report—required under the city’s surveillance ordinance—summarizing devices in use, data sharing practices, complaint counts and policy considerations.
The Columbia Police Department presented its first annual surveillance technology report, a requirement of the ordinance enacted with the Flock camera package. Assistant Chief Dickinson authored the report (presented to council by Chief Slooty), which summarizes each technology the department uses, data‑sharing practices, any citizen complaints received, operational impacts and suggested policy tweaks.
Key points: staff said the report will be published on the city website and linked on the department’s social channels; it is intended for annual review and public comment. The document addresses the Flock ALPR program, body‑worn cameras, in‑car camera systems and associated evidence retention and access policies. Staff described the report as a starting point and noted plans for future dashboards to centralize police data (use‑of‑force stats, evidence management and related records) for transparency and operational efficiency.
Public and council questions: Councilmember Nick Foster asked how citizens would file complaints related to surveillance; staff said complaints can come through regular complaint channels and that the report will help identify whether specific technologies raise repeated concerns or require additional community education. The chief said the department intends to expand public accessibility to the information and to make routine data available to reduce ad‑hoc sunshine requests.
No action taken: the report was received and discussed; staff will continue to refine reporting and dashboard efforts.
