Organizers of the De-Flock Searcy County Town Hall say a packed crowd gathered at Veterans Memorial Hall in Marshall to discuss automated license plate reader cameras operating across Marshall and Searcy County.
Residents, business owners, elected officials and law enforcement representatives attended the town hall, which organizers said was arranged in only 7 days.
The panel included Marshall Mayor Kevin Elliott, Marshall Police Chief Kevin Ward, Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell, Marshall City Council Member Tim Massey and a representative from Flock Safety.
State Representative Steven Walker addressed the audience briefly, while Searcy County Judge Tony Horton attended the discussion. Pastor Allen Brock opened the meeting with prayer, and Leslie Mayor Eric Jaeger led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Residents raised concerns about privacy, public transparency and the possible long-term cost of maintaining the camera system.
According to information provided by organizers, 5 automated license plate reader cameras have been obtained for use in Marshall and Searcy County, with 4 currently operating.
Organizers said Marshall received 3 cameras initially supported through municipal alcohol tax revenue and school safety funding. Searcy County received 2 cameras through a private donation to law enforcement, according to the group.
The organization claims future subscription, repair and maintenance expenses could eventually shift to city and county taxpayers after the initial funding or donations expire.
Organizers estimated recurring expenses could range from $2,500 to $3,500 per camera annually. That estimate was provided by the organization and was not independently confirmed.
Town hall moderator Danielle Rowe said decisions involving surveillance technology and long-term public expenses deserve greater community transparency.
Lead organizer Eddie Milholland said volunteers gathered hundreds of petition signatures across Searcy County during the week leading up to the meeting.
Searcy County Justice of the Peace Wayne Witcher said the Quorum Court does not have the authority to direct the sheriff to install or remove cameras. He said the court has authority over county appropriations but limited authority over how those funds are administered.
Organizers plan to present the petition signatures at upcoming public meetings. They are asking the Marshall City Council to publicly reconsider the city’s camera agreement.
The group also plans to ask the Searcy County Quorum Court to restrict county funding for future camera subscriptions, maintenance and renewals.
Organizers said they will pursue public records related to the agreements, including contract terms, renewal provisions, possible opt-out options and long-term costs.
No official action or vote was reported during the town hall.
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