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Iowa City council narrows right-of-way agreements to limit video surveillance; ordinance approved 7–0
Summary
Council approved an ordinance restricting use of city right-of-way for systems that capture and store video or behavioral data, preserving temporary-use exceptions for utilities and sidewalk cafes; public commenters urged broader protections and staff said the change responds to recent concerns about ‘flock’ cameras.
Councilors voted unanimously to adopt language restricting temporary right-of-way agreements that would permit information or video systems capturing and retaining data tied to individuals. The change carries forward prior exceptions for public utilities and sidewalk cafes but explicitly limits agreements that would enable the capture and storage of individuals’ behavioral data on city-controlled rights-of-way.
During public comment, Abby Banks urged the city to go further, saying she was “really happy to see that they have been taken off the Iowa City right of ways” and asked the council to pursue additional protections and legislative remedies. City attorney Eric Gorse explained the ordinance preserves operational exceptions while addressing surveillance concerns: the new language specifically excludes traffic counters and similar non-identifying uses while covering devices that collect or store personally identifying behavior data.
After discussion, council approved the item by roll call 7–0. Staff and council members noted they will continue communications with the University of Iowa and other partners to prevent future placements on public rights-of-way without council awareness.
