Residents press council on Flock license-plate reader contract, citing privacy and cybersecurity concerns

At the Nov. 13 Staunton City Council meeting several members of the public raised concerns about the city's contract with Flock, a company that provides license-plate reader surveillance systems.

Deborah Kushner, a Staunton resident, summarized recent news reports and asked whether the city sought community input before installing cameras and whether the pilot program has concluded or been expanded. "Did the city okay the plan, or was there research or public discussion?" Kusshner asked, and she said she could find only a September 2024 contract and a Chief Williams update to council.

A second public commenter recounted research he said shows Flock has not enforced multifactor authentication and alleged credentials were available on criminal forums; he said he had started a petition with "over a 100 signatures" and that many residents are opposed. He cited broader industry concerns and federal lawmakers— scrutiny of Flock—s practices.

Councilor Campbell previously told the meeting that council is aware of residents' concerns and has asked staff to look into aspects of the contract and to reach out to Flock; he said more information will be "coming months" but that council had not engaged in a public debate on the contract at the Nov. 13 meeting.

Public speakers asked specific questions the meeting did not answer on the record: the pilot length, whether more cameras will be installed and where, what data-sharing agreements exist, and whether the public had been given an opportunity for input. Those questions remain open; staff and council undertook to investigate and report back.