Title
Flock Automated License Plate Reader Camera Briefing
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on the Flock Automated License Plate Reader Cameras.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on the Flock Automated License Plate Reader Cameras.
Staff Contact:
Shelby Parker, Interim Police Chief, Olympia Police Department. 360.753.8147
Presenter(s):
Shelby Parker, Interim Police Chief
Paul Frailey, Police Lieutenant
Background and Analysis:
In 2024, the Olympia Police Department (OPD) received a Department of Commerce grant to expand the use of technology in addressing auto theft and related crimes, including robbery, organized retail theft, and burglary. With this funding, OPD selected Flock Safety as the vendor to deploy Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) at strategic locations throughout the city.
In May 2025, the City of Olympia and Flock Group, Inc. executed Amendment No. 1 to the Master Services Agreement to strengthen privacy protections and legal safeguards regarding data use and disclosure. The amendment explicitly states:
“Flock may access, use, preserve, and/or disclose the Footage to law enforcement authorities, government officials, and/or third parties only if legally required to do so or as authorized by the Customer in writing. If Flock determines that such disclosure is legally required, Flock shall notify the Customer prior to disclosure, if possible, or as soon thereafter as notification can reasonably be provided.
Except as necessary to address security, privacy, fraud, or technical issues of Flock’s operating system, Flock shall not access, use, or preserve Customer Data…without prior written consent of the Customer.”
This agreement ensures that Flock cannot access or disclose Olympia’s data without the City’s written authorization or a valid legal mandate. Any agency seeking to view Olympia data must submit a request that is reviewed and approved by an authorized Olympia administrator to ensure compliance with Washington law, including the Keep Washington Working Act, and with Olympia’s internal policies, which exceed the privacy and transparency standards used by many other jurisdictions.
The University of Washington’s “Leaving the Door Wide Open” report acknowledges Olympia’s strong compliance and careful approach to data sharing. It notes:
“In at least six cases, including Douglas County and Kittitas County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Lynnwood, Mount Vernon, and Olympia Police Departments, Flock Network Audits during 2025 do not contain any searches by Border Patrol, suggesting that at least some local agencies were not exposed to this ‘back door’ access.”
This finding confirms that Olympia’s restrictive system configuration is functioning as intended, protecting community data while maintaining essential investigative capabilities.
Flock Safety cameras have played a consistent and important role in enhancing public safety. The technology has proven valuable in identifying violent felony offenders, locating missing or endangered individuals, recovering stolen vehicles, and supporting complex investigations.
Without Automated License Plate Readers, the Department would face significant operational limitations, including:
• Reduced ability to promptly identify and apprehend suspects in violent crimes, property crimes, and missing-person investigations.
• Loss of critical local and regional collaboration that supports information sharing and joint investigations.
• Increased investigative time and reduced operational efficiency, delaying case resolutions and increasing demands on limited resources.
• Fewer opportunities to recover stolen vehicles, assist vulnerable individuals, and address cross-jurisdictional criminal activity.
OPD is firmly committed to both community safety and community privacy. The Department has implemented multiple layers of safeguards, legal agreements, and ongoing oversight to ensure Olympia’s data is securely managed and accessed only for legitimate investigative purposes consistent with State law, Department and City policy. These measures ensure that all data use aligns with the City of Olympia’s values.
Climate Analysis:
Flock Safety cameras have minimal environmental impact. Units are powered by existing electrical infrastructure on traffic signal poles or operate using integrated solar panels, reducing the need for new energy sources or additional carbon-intensive installations.
Equity Analysis:
Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) are not a form of artificial intelligence. The system captures vehicle-related information-such as license plates and basic vehicle characteristics-rather than any driver or occupant data. It does not identify, detect, or store demographic details about individuals, and there is no capability within the system to search for or retrieve such information. OPD’s Flock Safety camera system does not collect or retain personally identifiable information, ensuring that no individual-level data is created or accessible through ALPR use.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Community feedback reflects a desire for balanced and thoughtful public safety strategies, approaches that support effective law enforcement while also protecting individual rights and safeguarding community data. Residents consistently emphasize the importance of maintaining safety without compromising privacy.
Financial Impact:
The City’s contract with Flock expires in July 2026. Continued use of the cameras will require renewed funding to support subscription costs and maintenance. These ongoing expenses should be incorporated into future budget planning.
At the same time, there are potential long-term savings. Improved crime prevention and reduced criminal activity can lessen demands on the broader criminal justice system, which may help offset a portion of the continued operational costs.
Options:
1. Receive a briefing on the Flock Automated License Plate Reader Cameras.
2. Don’t receive a briefing on the Flock Automated License Plate Reader Cameras.
3. Schedule the briefing for another date.
Attachments:
Agreement Amendment
University of Washington Flock Report
Presentation