Members criticize surveillance tech at LA City Council meeting amid budget discussions

June 07, 2025 | Los Angeles City, Los Angeles County, California


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Members criticize surveillance tech at LA City Council meeting amid budget discussions
Concerns over police surveillance technology dominated the Los Angeles City Council meeting on June 6, 2025, as community members voiced strong opposition to proposed measures that they argue infringe on civil liberties. One speaker passionately criticized the council for prioritizing perceived safety over individual freedoms, stating, "I will not trade my real freedom for false security."

The speaker highlighted the potential dangers of surveillance technology, particularly its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, including Indigenous and Black populations. They argued that instead of investing in surveillance, the city should allocate resources to support these communities directly. "If you want to make your city safe, put resources into those communities, not surveillance," they urged.

Another speaker, Luis Samoy, president of the Association of Engineers and Architects, took a different tone, expressing gratitude for the council's efforts in budget discussions. He emphasized the importance of maintaining job security for city employees and praised the council for engaging with the public during the budget process. "We want to ensure that this delicate Jenga tower we’ve built remains standing," he said, referring to the city's budget stability.

As the meeting progressed, tensions rose with interruptions from the audience, leading to calls for order from council members. The council ultimately moved forward with voting on agenda items, but the discussions around surveillance technology and community safety are expected to continue as the city navigates these complex issues. The implications of these debates could shape future policies and community relations in Los Angeles.

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