Over the past two years, I have watched with growing concern as Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras have multiplied across our community. From zero to a staggering 13, these surveillance devices now encircle Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, increasing the feeling of being constantly watched and robbing us of our privacy. For a small town that prides itself on its close-knit community and secure environment, this unwelcome scrutiny feels not only invasive but also intolerable.

As residents of Slippery Rock, we cherish our town for its sense of freedom and privacy — qualities that are under threat due to the pervasive presence of ALPR technology. While proponents of these devices argue that they enhance safety and security, research and countless community experiences have shown otherwise. According to studies, the effectiveness of ALPR systems in reducing crime is questionable, raising concerns about their cost-effectiveness and intrusion on civil liberties.

Consider the implications of this technology: every trip you take, every visit you make, is monitored, recorded, and stored. This data is not only collected without our explicit consent but also shared with agencies beyond our local control, posing significant risks to our privacy. Moreover, these systems often operate without transparency, leaving citizens in the dark about how their data is used.

We understand the importance of community safety, but we believe in achieving it through trusts, such as visible community policing, robust neighborhood watch programs, and increased investment in community resources that promote well-being. ALPR cameras are not the solution and should be removed to protect our rights and peace of mind.

We call upon the local government officials, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to listen to the concerns of Slippery Rock residents. By signing this petition, you are standing up for our right to privacy and advocating for a reconsideration of local surveillance policies that prioritize people's rights and freedoms. Let us work together towards a solution that keeps our town safe without compromising our civil liberties.

Sign this petition to demand the removal of ALPR cameras and to restore the sense of privacy and freedom in Slippery Rock. Your voice is essential in making this change possible. Let’s act now before our town becomes a surveillance hotspot. Join us in saying "No" to unnecessary surveillance technology and "Yes" to a privacy-respecting community.