LENAWEE CO. — The Lenawee County Board of Commissioners has approved a two-year contract for a license plate surveillance system known as Flock, finalizing a $55,000 deal following weeks of review and public input. The Flock camera contract includes provisions for data retention and audit policies.
The decision caps a multi-step process that began earlier this spring, when law enforcement officials proposed the use of Flock’s license plate reader system to support investigations involving stolen vehicles and other crimes. Commissioners raised concerns over civil liberties, data use policies, and the potential for expanded surveillance features.
The approved agreement covers eight cameras, including one mobile unit, with a total cost of $55,050 spread over two years. The system uses still images, not live video, and data is automatically purged after 30 days unless downloaded during an active investigation. Lenawee County has affirmed it will not enable a new optional live-viewing feature promoted by the vendor.
The contract will be paid through the county’s Criminal Justice Allocation Fund. Renewals must return to the board for approval.
Implementation is expected to begin later this year, with installation planned across several rural roadways. Oversight will include usage audits and policy reviews to maintain compliance with civil rights and transparency guidelines.