Recently, residents of Lincoln, Rhode Island discovered that a contract with Flock, a company providing surveillance cameras, had been approved without adequate public awareness or consultation. This decision was reportedly made during a meeting that primarily focused on fire trucks, ambulances, and police cars, leaving citizens uninformed about the additional privacy implications from these cameras being installed in our community. This lack of transparency raises serious concerns about our collective right to privacy.

The use of surveillance cameras can have significant effects on our community, impacting our privacy in ways that deserve thorough examination and public input. This situation highlights the urgency for a re-evaluation of the contract with Flock. It's crucial to understand how the data collected from these cameras is managed, who has access to it, and how long it is stored, among other privacy issues. The decision to implement such surveillance should not have been made without properly addressing these important considerations with residents first.

Therefore, we urge the town officials to organize a special meeting where these topics can be openly discussed, allowing citizens of Lincoln to express their concerns and provide input on this critical matter. We call for a vote on the Flock contract to ensure it reflects the will and best interests of the community, safeguarding the personal privacy we value deeply.

For years, Lincoln has been a tight-knit community, one where trust and mutual respect between residents and local government have been paramount. Preserving this trust requires commitment to transparency and inclusivity, especially in decisions that impact the fundamental rights of its citizens.

We believe that it is not too late to address this issue appropriately. Our goal is not to halt progress but to ensure that progress respects our rights and perspectives. Join us in our effort to bring this matter back to the table for re-evaluation, debate, and ultimately a decision that reflects the values and priorities of the people of Lincoln.

Sign this petition to demand a review of the Flock contract and to advocate for an open dialogue between town officials and residents. Together, let's protect the privacy and democratic values that make Lincoln the community we love.