Supervisor Raises Concerns Over License Plate Reader Cameras, Pushes for Town Ban

By JOSHUA YOUNGQUISTONEONTA

A growing debate over automated license plate reader cameras has reached the Town of Oneonta, where Town Supervisor Will Rivera says residents deserve greater transparency and a public discussion before the technology is used within the community.

Rivera said the Town Board never approved the cameras and that no public vote or discussion was held before they appeared in the area.

“The Town Board did not approve these cameras,” Rivera said. “They were never brought to us for a vote or a public discussion.”

The technology at the center of the discussion is commonly referred to as an automated license plate reader, or ALPR. One of the most widely known manufacturers is Atlanta-based Flock Safety, whose camera systems are used by law enforcement agencies, municipalities and private businesses across the country.

While supporters argue that the cameras help solve crimes and locate stolen vehicles, critics say the systems collect far more information than many people realize.

According to Rivera, the concern goes beyond simply taking a photograph of a license plate.