Searcy aldermen have voted unanimously to move toward terminating the city’s contracts with Flock Safety, putting the future of the company’s camera system in Searcy in question.
The action came during Tuesday night’s Searcy City Council meeting.
Flock Safety provides automated license plate recognition cameras that can capture vehicle information and assist law enforcement agencies with criminal investigations.
City officials indicated they still want to find another way to protect the city’s investments in its parks, but they do not want to replace Flock with a similar type of system.
As the city moves forward with the termination process, a letter will be sent to Flock Safety regarding the contracts.
The decision comes amid increased discussion in Arkansas communities about the use of automated license plate recognition cameras and questions surrounding public safety, privacy and the collection and sharing of vehicle information.
The council also took action Tuesday night on the future home of the Searcy Police Department.
Aldermen approved moving forward with plans for a new police station on Recreation Drive, off South Main Street.
City officials consider the proposed location a good fit because of its central location, access to major roads and proximity to the Searcy Fire Department.
The project remains in the planning stages. The city will continue evaluating the costs and logistics associated with developing the new police station, including the potential relocation of some existing city operations.
Together, Tuesday night’s actions could bring significant changes to law enforcement operations in Searcy, with the city moving away from Flock Safety technology while planning a new home for the Searcy Police Department.
