Oconee County council orders review of automatic license-plate readers after public privacy concerns

Following sustained public comment about Flock automatic license-plate/vehicle cameras, the chair moved that Oconee County Council direct the county administrator and county attorney to conduct a full legal and operational review of automatic license-plate-reader systems in the county — including Flock — and to return a written report with recommendations within 60 days. "I wanna move that the county council direct the county administrator and the county attorney to conduct a full review of the automatic license plate reader systems, including flock," the chair said, specifying the report should include the council's scope of authority given the sheriff's status as an elected constitutional officer.

Multiple public speakers had urged such a review. Lauren Ballard of Deflock Oconee County asked for public input and transparency, arguing residents were not asked before cameras were installed and questioning who ultimately controls the data. "What will your legacy ... be remembered regarding this issue of flock safety cameras?" Ballard asked. Valerie McCarthy cited U.S. Supreme Court rulings — United States v. Jones and Carpenter — warning that networked camera systems collecting long-term location data can raise Fourth Amendment concerns. "I believe we can support law enforcement and protect constitutional liberty at the same time," McCarthy said.

Council members said they recognized potential public-safety benefits but wanted clarity on legal authority and data controls. The motion directs legal counsel and administration to return a report within 60 days that addresses the council's options, including whether cameras might be relocated or disabled where the council has authority, and the limits created by the sheriff's separately elected status.