Ankeny city officials say they haven’t made any decisions or held discussions about their future use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras, a surveillance technology that’s facing backlash nationally.
The big picture: Waukee, Indianola and Dallas County recently announced they’re suspending their Flock camera programs as they wait for more regulation and guidance from the Iowa Legislature.
Catch up quick: Last year, the Legislature considered a bill regulating their usage, including restricting officers from accessing data after 24 hours unless they have a warrant.
- It did not pass, but it’s expected to come up again in the 2027 session.
State of play: Ankeny has contracts with both Flock and Axon for ALPR cameras, body cameras and cameras in patrol cars.
- The city has 16 Flock-specific cameras. The $38,250 contract was first signed in July 2022 for two years. It was renewed in 2024 for another two years for $35,000.
- In December 2023, Ankeny Police Chief Darius Potts signed a purchase agreement with Axon.
What they’re saying: Especially as the city’s population grows, the cameras reduce the need for more staffing, city manager Mike Schrock says.
- Ankeny Mayor Bobbi Bentz says it’s a balance between helping officers be more efficient while also ensuring safeguards.
- She notes the technology has helped find missing people and helped solve problems like who’s at fault in a car accident.
The other side: ACLU of Iowa warns the surveillance raises serious privacy concerns, especially because transparency varies widely across police departments…