Chandler’s City Council is currently evaluating the future of its partnership with Flock Safety, a company providing license plate reader cameras aimed at enhancing public safety. This assessment comes in response to community concerns regarding privacy and data security.
Background of the Flock Safety Program
In March 2024, Chandler initiated a pilot program by installing 14 Flock Safety cameras. These devices capture images of license plates, assisting law enforcement in identifying vehicles associated with criminal activities. Encouraged by initial results, the City Council approved the acquisition of 26 additional cameras in May 2025, bringing the total to 40 units. The contract for these cameras is valued at up to $153,400.
Community Concerns and Council Response
Despite the program’s intent to bolster security, some residents have expressed apprehension about potential infringements on privacy and the handling of collected data. In response, the City Council postponed a scheduled vote in May 2026 to extend the contract with Flock Safety, opting to gather more public input and thoroughly assess the program’s implications. The council is expected to revisit this issue in mid-July 2026.
Operational Insights and Future Considerations
Between October and December 2025, the Flock Safety system generated 3,508 alerts related to cases involving missing persons, stolen vehicles, and active warrants. While these figures highlight the program’s utility in law enforcement, the council remains attentive to the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Other Arizona cities, such as Flagstaff, have terminated their contracts with Flock Safety due to similar privacy concerns, and Tempe is currently evaluating alternative license plate reader technologies.
Looking Ahead
As Chandler’s City Council prepares to make a decision on the future of the Flock Safety camera program, it continues to solicit feedback from residents to ensure that any action taken aligns with the community’s values and expectations. The council’s deliberations aim to strike a balance between leveraging technology for public safety and upholding the privacy rights of its citizens.