Remove Flock cameras from our community

The Issue

In recent times, our community has witnessed the installation of Flock cameras, which poses a significant threat to our fundamental right to privacy. These cameras track our movements, capturing data about where and when we go to places. This constant surveillance turns our daily lives into matter of record, infringing on our freedom and peace of mind.

Flock cameras, known for their ability to automatically read license plates and store this information, could lead to misuse or slipping into the wrong hands. While advocates say these cameras help law enforcement, the truth is, this technology is more about surveillance, akin to a digital form of stalking that our community should not be subjected to.

According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, mass surveillance by such technologies can lead to the chilling of free speech and other civil liberties. It has been proven that once a community adopts constant surveillance, it is nearly impossible to revert back to unrestricted freedom. The presence of these cameras can never substitute for equitable community policing strategies.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has documented cases where surveillance systems are misused, resulting in racial profiling and discriminatory practices. If not checked, these cameras could be used in ways that misrepresent the actions of innocent community members, promoting fear instead of security.

We deserve a community that values the personal freedom and privacy of each individual, where security measures do not translate to unwarranted invasion of privacy. There are alternative methods to ensure community safety, such as increased foot patrols and community-engagement initiatives, which do not erode our freedoms or privacy.

Let us stand together to demand the immediate removal of Flock cameras from our community, and work towards building a safer environment that respects our rights. Sign this petition to make your voice heard against unnecessary and invasive surveillance technology. Together, we can protect our right to privacy and ensure our community remains a refuge of personal freedom.

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The Issue

In recent times, our community has witnessed the installation of Flock cameras, which poses a significant threat to our fundamental right to privacy. These cameras track our movements, capturing data about where and when we go to places. This constant surveillance turns our daily lives into matter of record, infringing on our freedom and peace of mind.

Flock cameras, known for their ability to automatically read license plates and store this information, could lead to misuse or slipping into the wrong hands. While advocates say these cameras help law enforcement, the truth is, this technology is more about surveillance, akin to a digital form of stalking that our community should not be subjected to.

According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, mass surveillance by such technologies can lead to the chilling of free speech and other civil liberties. It has been proven that once a community adopts constant surveillance, it is nearly impossible to revert back to unrestricted freedom. The presence of these cameras can never substitute for equitable community policing strategies.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has documented cases where surveillance systems are misused, resulting in racial profiling and discriminatory practices. If not checked, these cameras could be used in ways that misrepresent the actions of innocent community members, promoting fear instead of security.

We deserve a community that values the personal freedom and privacy of each individual, where security measures do not translate to unwarranted invasion of privacy. There are alternative methods to ensure community safety, such as increased foot patrols and community-engagement initiatives, which do not erode our freedoms or privacy.

Let us stand together to demand the immediate removal of Flock cameras from our community, and work towards building a safer environment that respects our rights. Sign this petition to make your voice heard against unnecessary and invasive surveillance technology. Together, we can protect our right to privacy and ensure our community remains a refuge of personal freedom.

The Decision Makers

Mount Vernon City Council
2 Members
Mel Severns
Mount Vernon City Council - At Large
Amber Kenner
Mount Vernon City Council - At Large
Matthew Starr
Mount Vernon City Mayor

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Petition created on April 29, 2026