Resident urges Willmar City to limit use of Flock license‑plate cameras over privacy concerns

Josh Reeks, a Willmar resident who said he lives on Sixth Street, told the City Council during open forum that he discovered widespread external access to Flock license‑plate cameras and described security and privacy problems he believes are associated with the system. “The most frightening part is who can access these cameras,” Reeks said, summarizing findings he obtained through open‑records requests and internet searches.

Reeks said his review showed what he described as thousands of external accounts with access to live feeds and that some Flock employees were able to view local street‑level video. He also said some cameras were left publicly accessible without passwords. “We would essentially be doing the same thing if we have Flock handle the data part of our cameras” near playgrounds, pools or schools, he said, and urged the city to end or severely limit Flock’s access in those locations.

Mayor and council members did not take action during the meeting. Councilmember asked staff to place a discussion of Flock cameras on a future agenda and one councilmember specifically requested that Chief Holm and Director Johnson address the council on the topic at a future meeting so the city can hear from public safety staff and discuss options.

The council’s packet and staff remarks at the meeting did not include a formal update on the contract terms, which entities have administrative access, or whether the city’s current agreement (if any) permits third‑party or vendor employee viewing. Councilmembers and staff indicated the issue should be reviewed at a subsequent meeting where staff and the police chief can present contract details and any recommended policy changes.