League City will allow its voters to decide in November whether to continue using Flock Safety's automated license plate reader cameras. The City Council unanimously voted to include this question on the ballot, marking a significant moment as it is believed to be one of the first instances in Texas where such a program is presented to voters.
The proposition will inquire if the city should maintain its use of the automated license plate readers. Currently, the police department operates 55 active cameras, with an additional 16 pending permits from the Texas Department of Transportation. The outcome of this referendum is non-binding, meaning the council will retain the authority to modify or terminate the program regardless of the voters' decision.
Mayor Nick Long, who advocated for the referendum, acknowledged both the effectiveness of the cameras in solving serious crimes and the privacy concerns they raise. The discussion around the cameras has intensified following reported misuse in nearby cities, which has sparked a broader conversation about privacy.
Alongside the referendum, League City plans to create an online transparency portal to provide information on camera usage and establish a citizens accountability committee for oversight. The outcome of this vote will be closely monitored by other Texas cities that utilize similar systems.
