During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the implementation of an automated license plate reader (ALPR) system, known as Flock, aimed at combating rising crime rates, particularly vehicle thefts. The police department has received a grant of $132,720 from the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority to support this initiative, which will allow for the purchase of 25 cameras over two years at an estimated total cost of $166,500.

The meeting highlighted alarming crime statistics in Washington State, where vehicle theft rates have surged by 110% since 2019, and violent crime rates have increased by nearly 20% over the past five years. The police department emphasized the need for advanced technology to enhance public safety and improve crime response times. The Flock system has already proven effective in neighboring jurisdictions, with notable success stories including rapid identification of suspects in serious crimes.

Officials assured the council that the technology is designed with privacy in mind, focusing solely on vehicle data without facial recognition or personal tracking. The cameras will be strategically placed in public areas to monitor vehicle movements, providing real-time alerts for stolen vehicles and aiding in investigations.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, recognizing the potential benefits of the Flock system in addressing the city's crime challenges. The proposal will be brought forward for formal approval in the upcoming council meeting, with hopes that the technology will serve as a valuable tool in enhancing community safety and trust in law enforcement.