Racine Common Council votes to terminate Flock camera agreement
RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Two weeks after the Racine County sheriff ordered the immediate removal of Flock cameras, the Racine Common Council discussed a proposal that would terminate Flock cameras throughout the city.
The council went back and forth on the impacts and use of Flock cameras for several hours, before voting on the proposal that would have shut down the system immediately and gave police 30 days to use data already collected.
The proposal was voted down, and a new amendment was created.
The new amendment was approved by the council and terminates the contract with Flock cameras after the next 30 days, in which the cameras will stay up for current investigations.
Racine Police Chief Alexander Ramirez was asked questions by multiple council members and spoke at length about the department’s use of the system.
“A goal should be straightforward, use technology responsibly, protect our residents, respect their rights and privacy rights, and remain accountable to the community we serve,” Ramirez said.
The police chief said it would take six to nine months to get a new system in place, but the department will come up with a plan.
“Whatever decision is made, that decision should be implemented thoughtfully with a clear plan that protects both public trust and public safety,” Ramirez said.