The recent meeting of the Milwaukee City Council focused on the potential implementation of facial recognition technology by the police department. Key discussions revolved around the timeline and strategic planning involved in acquiring two licenses for this technology. The police chief emphasized the importance of community engagement before any decisions are made, stating that discussions with residents are crucial to building trust and ensuring the policy reflects community concerns.

The chief outlined a fluid timeline for the project, indicating that the department aims to gather community feedback before drafting a formal policy. The goal is to create a policy that addresses public comfort and outlines strict parameters for the use of the technology, particularly in light of rising violent crime rates. While there is a desire to implement the technology quickly, the chief stressed that the department will not rush the process if the community is not fully supportive.

Community outreach is a priority, with plans to hold discussions in various neighborhoods, including the North Side and at local libraries, to ensure diverse voices are heard. The chief acknowledged the fears within the immigrant community regarding surveillance and the need for transparency in how images and data would be handled.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the delicate balance between leveraging technology for public safety and maintaining community trust. The police department is committed to facilitating open conversations and addressing concerns as they move forward with this initiative.