Council approves license-plate-reader database contract with quarterly audits despite privacy concerns

The Phoenix City Council approved a contract for subscription services for a Motorola NVLS license-plate-reader database following detailed questioning about privacy controls, auditing frequency and operational safeguards.

Assistant Chief Brian Lee and Commander Bill Wickersham briefed the council on policy safeguards: queries tied to police activity, automatic city records that support audits, supervisory monthly reviews, and disciplinary consequences — including loss of system access and potential termination — for misuse. The department described an audit program that samples roughly 10% of queries (above a 3% national benchmark) and said audits are completed quarterly in consultation with the City Auditor’s office.

Councilmembers raised two broad concerns: the potential for misuse shown in reports from other jurisdictions and the possibility of vendor add-ons that could extend capabilities beyond camera-based reads. Department leaders said Phoenix uses Motorola products only, not the other vendor named in outside reporting, and that any future expansion of capabilities would require council review.

Supporters noted recent investigatory successes aided by license-plate readers, including an early-signal pickup that investigators said helped in a homicide investigation at Desert Sky Mall. Dissenting councilmembers cited First Amendment and privacy concerns and voted no. The motion passed by roll call 8–1.

The council’s approval included continued oversight through the audit process and direction that any expansion of capabilities be returned to council for authorization.