Recently, the City of Stillwater has seen a growing public debate over the installation and use of Flock Safety cameras — automated license-plate reading systems placed around town. While city officials say they help with public safety, many residents question how the data is used, stored, and who has access.
What Are Flock Cameras?
Flock Safety cameras automatically capture images of vehicle license plates. These systems are often pitched as tools that help law enforcement track stolen vehicles, manage traffic safety, or investigate crimes. Stillwater has adopted them in several locations.
Community Concerns & Feedback
Some Stillwater residents have expressed concerns over privacy and transparency. Questions raised include: How long is the data stored? Who gets to review the images? Are non-law-enforcement entities involved? And is there oversight on how the system evolves or expands?
A community group called Deflock Stillwater has been vocal, organizing meetings and requesting more open policies. Some residents report confusion over the difference between what cameras are already doing versus what they could be capable of in the future.
City Officials’ Responses
Mayor Ted Kozlowski has issued statements in response to public input, acknowledging the concerns and promising clearer rules around use and data storage. The city has a transparency portal where residents can find maps of where cameras are and see policies on their use.
What’s Next
• A City Council meeting on October 6 will include further discussion over Flock deployments, including possible guidance policies and limitations.
• Citizens can attend and voice feedback, or write to local officials to propose changes.
• Engaging with the transparency portal to see what has already been established is encouraged for all interested.
Tips for Residents
If this topic matters to you, you can:
• Check the city’s website or Flock’s portal to see where cameras are located.
• Read up on the city’s policy — how long data’s stored, who has access.
• Attend public meetings and ask for clarity on camera use, or limitations on non-law-enforcement access.
• Share your feedback in writing so it becomes part of the public record.
The debate over Flock cameras reflects a broader balancing act Stillwater is facing: leveraging technology for safety while protecting individual privacy. The outcome of these discussions may set precedents for how similar systems are deployed in towns across Minnesota.