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Residents press Leesburg on surveillance cameras and private fiber installations
Summary
Multiple residents expressed concerns about Flock surveillance cameras and AT&T fiber installations, and city staff explained the limited role of the city and potential constraints from state and federal programs.
Rick Carlins told commissioners he was "very concerned" about Flock surveillance cameras in Leesburg that he said capture license plates, vehicle details and facial recognition and feed data to data centers; he urged the city to stop funding or supporting such surveillance.
At the same meeting, residents and commissioners raised complaints about private fiber installs (AT&T) in Palmore/Palmora Park. City staff explained the city is not the installing party, that the municipal fiber system was sold and is now privately operated, and that the gas department traditionally oversees utility locates and right-of-way coordination. Staff said they are working with providers and may pursue code updates but are limited by state/federal grant conditions.
"This is not a city project," a staff member said, explaining that private companies pursuing federal funds often drive installations and that the city can enforce restoration and right-of-way standards but may be limited on dictating means and methods where funding conditions apply.
Citizen feedback included requests for the city to ask providers to use less obtrusive pedestals and to ensure disturbed yards are restored after work. Staff directed residents with concerns to the gas department and planning and zoning for follow-up and said they will continue to engage with providers.
