Petition Overview:
Lowndes County, GA implemented a fully encrypted public safety communications system over a decade ago, funded by taxpayer money. This decision unnecessarily restricts transparency, prevents residents from staying informed about crime and emergencies, and creates safety risks for our community.

We demand that Lowndes County, GA reconsider this policy and restore public access to non-sensitive safety communications. Publicly funded systems should serve the public interest, fostering a safer and more informed community.

The Lowndes County, GA Board of Commissioners has used taxpayer funds to implement a fully encrypted public safety communications system, cutting off residents’ access to critical information. This decision was made without adequate public input and places an unnecessary financial and safety burden on our community.

For decades, the public has relied on access to safety communications to stay informed, take precautions during criminal incidents, and assist first responders during emergencies. By fully encrypting all communications, Lowndes County is denying residents a vital tool for safeguarding themselves and their families.

We understand the need for secure channels in certain situations, such as drug enforcement, gang task force missions, and SWAT operations. However, applying encryption to all public safety communications is excessive, expensive, and undermines the public’s trust in local government.

This system, which is funded and maintained with taxpayer money, should be accessible for the public to monitor non-sensitive communications.

Transparency is critical for community safety, particularly in light of the recent rise in crime. Keeping residents informed about crime in their neighborhoods allows them to take precautions and stay vigilant. Similarly, during natural disasters, public access to safety communications helps ensure an effective community-wide response and aids first responders.

As taxpayers, we deserve a voice in how our money is spent. The current encryption policy prioritizes secrecy over public safety and accountability, while imposing unnecessary costs on the community.

We call on the Lowndes County, GA Board of Commissioners to:

• Reevaluate the encryption policy and restore public access to non-sensitive safety communications.
  
  
• Reserve secure channels exclusively for sensitive operations, such as drug enforcement and SWAT activities, where first responder safety is paramount.
• Ensure that publicly funded systems like this one serve the public good and prioritize transparency, trust, and fiscal responsibility.
  
  

As a former first responder, I know the importance that accessible public safety radio communications plays in a community. By signing this petition, you are demanding accountability and advocating for a balanced approach to public safety communications—one that keeps residents informed while protecting sensitive operations.

Together, we can restore transparency, improve safety, and ensure that taxpayer-funded systems serve the community as they should.

Sign this petition today and make your voice heard!