Resident urges Ennis to adopt rules for Flock ALPR cameras and data access

During the public comment period, Ennis resident Elijah Chapman urged commissioners to adopt a clear policy regulating private Flock Safety automated license‑plate readers (ALPRs) installed in public places. Chapman told the commission he is not disputing the technology’s public‑safety uses but is concerned about the creation of a searchable national database that records movements of ordinary people and the potential for inappropriate access to footage.

Chapman said: "I'm asking this commission and this city to be proactive in how we monitor this technology. I understand banning these systems isn't necessarily feasible, but we should adopt clear policies on where these cameras can be placed, who is entitled to look through them, and what information the public gets access to about the use of these cameras." He cited court decisions recognizing risks from prolonged location tracking and referenced reported security incidents involving camera footage.

Mayor and staff responded that the city will take note of the concerns and that policy options could include location limits, retention and access controls, and reporting transparency. No formal city action on ALPR policy was taken at the meeting; staff may report back if commissioners request a formal policy review.