Resident urges Carbondale not to pursue Flock license-plate cameras; town manager says no proposal planned

A resident identified as Botero told the board during public comment that Carbondale should avoid adopting Flock license-plate cameras and instead invest in enforcement or education.

"I think our society is better without mass surveillance," Botero said, warning that some towns are ending agreements after discovering how data can be shared. He asked whether Carbondale is involved in SPEAR and whether the town is contemplating Flock cameras.

Town manager Ryan responded that staff are reviewing the town’s participation in SPEAR and working to identify amendments to the memorandum of understanding. "With respect to Flock cameras, there's no plans to bring any proposals for Flock cameras to the board, from the police department, at this time," Ryan said, and he offered to follow up with community members and the police chief to clarify access to databases and operational details.

Trustees and staff agreed more conversation is likely. One trustee said additional information emailed by a community member (Debbie Brule) appeared to present a different account than the chief’s earlier briefing, and suggested the chief return to the board to address outstanding legal and access questions.

The public comment and subsequent staff update left the town without a decision: Botero urged a precautionary approach, while town staff said they would pursue clarifying amendments and bring any MOU changes to the board for consideration.

The board took no formal action at the meeting; staff signaled further discussion and possible return briefings to answer community concerns.