League City is set to dismantle its automated license plate reader (ALPR) program following the rejection of Proposition A by local voters. The decision comes as a direct response to the electorate’s choice, which indicated a preference against the continued use of these surveillance cameras on public roadways.
The results of the recent election revealed that a significant number of voters opposed Proposition A, which sought to authorize the League City Police Department to maintain its fixed-location ALPR cameras. In light of this outcome, Mayor Nick Long has instructed city staff to take immediate action by bagging the cameras to stop data collection prior to their official removal.
According to the city’s announcement, the resolution passed by the City Council on October 27 mandates the removal of the cameras within 72 hours of the official election canvass scheduled for November 17. However, Mayor Long has prioritized immediate measures, emphasizing the need to cover the cameras without waiting for the canvassing date.
Once the cameras are bagged, the League City Police Department will cease all data collection and will no longer share information with external agencies. Any data collected prior to this action will be purged from the system after 30 days unless it is retained for ongoing investigations.
The city has outlined the necessary steps that will ensue. The League City Manager will review existing agreements with Flock Safety and explore potential amendments, partial terminations, or nonrenewals of contracts as needed to facilitate the removal of the ALPR cameras. This process includes reviewing contracts, issuing necessary notices, and ensuring the return of equipment and closure of accounts.
In alignment with the voters’ decision, the City Manager will also identify available funds for reallocation after settling the city’s contractual obligations. Recommendations will be developed to redirect these funds toward alternative public safety initiatives that resonate with community priorities.
Furthermore, the resolution directs the League City Manager to identify any ALPR cameras operated by homeowners’ associations within the city’s rights-of-way. These associations and equipment owners will be notified that the cameras need to be removed, with deadlines established as soon as it is legally and logistically viable.
