For clarification, the October 2 Study Session discussion represents the early stages of investigation (not the final stages) of the use and opportunity of ALPRs and Public Safety Cameras beyond the complement the Town already has in use. There are public safety cameras at Holbrook-Palmer Park and new police vehicles are equipped with ALPR cameras as part of their existing dashboard cameras; but, the Town does not have public safety or ALPR cameras fixed as stationary cameras at entry points into the Town.

Residents are encouraged to register their private security cameras with the Police Department so that in the event of an incident, officers know where security cameras are placed throughout the community and can use them forensically to assist in any investigation.

The Town encourages public engagement on this issue and encourages the public to attend the October 2 Study Session to provide feedback as the Town investigates these options.

Thanks!

George Rodericks
City Manager
grodericks@ci.atherton.ca.us

I've heard that ALPR's don't even function much of the time. What a waste of money and time.

I see PV still has burglaries. I imagine the crooks (those from out of town) have figured a variety of ways around the readers (false/stolen plates, those plastic plate deflectors and sprays available online, using alternate entry points, etc..)

What will the data policy be?

We have a police department We pay A LOT of money for it, most of the town's budget, last time I checked.

Are the officers on regular patrol during the day and evening to prevent crime? That's going to deter this a lot more than a license plate reader that might (or probably will) result in privacy violations against the taxpayers.

However, last time I checked, we're going to be borrowing $10M (without asking residents) to build very large and fancy offices for the police department, which seems contrary to them being out patrolling the streets.

Can someone clear up this confusion? Or is this just too much common sense and not enough politics for the people running the town to get their arms around?

@Ben Franklin @Confused

You guys have great questions. Be sure to attend the October 2 study session to get answers to them. If you can't attend, email the city manager. I'm sure he will follow up.

Wot a waste of money.

A few license plate readers here, a few cameras there, some police drones floating overhead. I'm sure glad Big Brother is looking out for my safety.