The Dunwoody City Council at its March 23 meeting heard a myriad of concerns about Flock cameras installed around the city, and again postponed a vote on renewing a $15,000 contract with the organization.
Speakers during public comment held before and after the meeting hammered the council with demands for accountability as the panel grapples with concerns about data sharing and its terms and conditions.
Dunwoody has more than 100 Flock Safety cameras and related surveillance devices, including drones and gunshot detectors, used by the Dunwoody Police Department for license plate recognition and to power its Real-Time Crime Center.
Several council members and Mayor Lynn Deutsch had to call for order as the crowd became increasingly disruptive with loud, sustained clapping and occasional booing.
“I’m very frustrated by the actions in this room,” Deutsch said. “We are trying to get the information we need.”
Representatives from Flock, including Dan Haley, its chief legal officer, promised to update the contract regarding its terms and conditions and address concerns regarding data-sharing with other agencies.
Jill Dunn, the city’s outside counsel, said a new governing document is being drafted that will specifically address language dealing with data security, protocols surrounding potential information breaches, and data sharing.
“Our number one priority in the city is safety,” Dunwoody City Council Member Stacey Harris said. “I want to know why there are 1,200 agencies that we share our data with. Why do we have to have SUNY [State University of New York] looking at our data?”
Council Member Tom Lambert said he wants realtime notification if an outside agency accesses Dunwoody’s data, which Dunn said, “could be a negotiating point.”
The council will take up the Flock renewal at its April 13 meeting.
In other action, the council was introduced to Rhaenysca, a Lifeline Animal Shelter dog who is available for adoption. She is about five years old and 70 pounds.
It also approved, on its consent agenda, money for resurfacing the Windwood Hollow Park tennis courts, lighting at Brook Run Park, and recreation permit software.