MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to consider an agreement between the Sheriff’s Office and Flock Safety on Tuesday, following a delay that officials said was needed to address questions about the technology and contract.
The Sheriff’s Office had been prepared to bring the agreement before the board on Aug. 25 but said it received more than 30 questions about the proposed use of Flock Safety technology before the meeting. Officials said additional time was needed to review the questions and provide responses to the Board of Supervisors and the public.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Flock Safety technology has assisted law enforcement agencies in Monterey County with investigations and provided information that helped identify vehicles associated with criminal activity.
The technology, which includes automated license plate readers, also has raised concerns among some community members about privacy, access to data, how information is used and shared, and safeguards governing its use.
“I believe it is important that the Board and our community have complete and accurate information before this matter is considered,” Sheriff Tina Nieto said in a press release. “It is equally important that every district in Monterey County is represented in this discussion.”
The Sheriff’s Office has encouraged residents to participate in the Sept. 22 meeting regardless of their position on Flock Safety.
“Whether you support Flock, oppose it or simply have questions or concerns, I encourage you to attend and make your voice heard,” Nieto said. “We have seen how this technology can assist law enforcement investigations in Monterey County, but we also understand that its use comes with questions and concerns from our community. Those concerns deserve to be heard and addressed. Our responsibility is to provide accurate information, explain the safeguards that are in place, answer the questions being raised, and listen to the community we serve.”
Meanwhile, Roots of Resistance had planned a “Get the Flock Out” (GTFO) Monterey protest and press event on Sept. 15 in Salinas, after this newspaper’s deadline. Organizers said they planned to call on the Board of Supervisors to reject the proposed contract and to launch a countywide campaign opposing expanded surveillance.
Among the concerns cited by organizers are the proposed 103-camera network, the length of the proposed 10-year contract and cancellation provisions. Organizers also said they oppose expanded surveillance infrastructure in unincorporated Monterey County and potential future agreements with individual cities.
“Beyond this specific contract fight, organizers are launching GTFO Monterey to coordinate resistance to surveillance expansion city by city across the county, extending the campaign beyond unincorporated areas to every municipality considering similar agreements,” according to a press release from Roots of Resistance.
The Sept. 22 Board of Supervisors meeting will provide an opportunity for the board and public to discuss both the proposed technology and concerns surrounding its use. Residents can attend in person or participate virtually.
Agendas for Board of Supervisors meetings are available online at monterey.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.
