The Chico City Council was met with a swell of public frustration over the handling of ALPR data at this evening’s meeting, the first public Council meeting after a month-long recess.
Almost 20 dismayed Chicoans took to public comment at the meeting, expressing discontent over the sharing of ALPR data with federal authorities, first reported by ChicoSol on July 25.
Members of the public called for increased oversight of Chico Police Department, greater transparency around city surveillance practices, or the removal of the 27 ALPR cameras installed by Chico PD.
“This whole tragic misadventure confirms the need for civilian review oversight of our police department” — Julian Zener
Chico PD paused sharing with federal and out-of-state agencies on July 8 after responding to a records request made by ChicoSol. An internal audit into the sharing of ALPR data with federal and out-of-state agencies is ongoing.
“This whole tragic misadventure confirms the need for transparency and civilian review oversight of our police department,” said Julian Zener, a retired cardiologist. Zener addressed the Council out of what he said was his disappointment in police Chief Billy Aldridge.
“I really like the police chief,” Zener told ChicoSol. “I’m really disappointed.”
Dan Pantry, a staff security engineer at a software firm, came with concerns about data collection and cybersecurity. “I build the systems for a living — I know how they can be used,” Pantry told ChicoSol.
“This isn’t some abstract thing that affects maybe some hypothetical set of people, Pantry said. “I’m an immigrant. This kind of sharing could affect me. I’m a real person, I pay taxes here.”
Pantry emigrated from the United Kingdom three years ago, arriving on a visa before receiving legal permanent resident status.
Mayor Kasey Reynolds moved to agendize a discussion on ALPRs. “I think this needs to be an extensive conversation,” the mayor said.
The mayor’s call for transparency was echoed by Councilmember and former police chief Mike O’Brien. “The timing of the audit and a presentation should be brought forward,” O’Brien said.
The Council voted 7-0 to agendize an ALPR discussion. The discussion might take place at the Sept. 15 Council meeting, said recently appointed City Manager Gillian Haen.
Concerns around ALPR surveillance have become a hot topic ahead of November’s election, with new candidates for two of the three open City Council seats voicing concerns about the technology.
“The public put their trust in Chico PD, and Chico PD proved they were not deserving of that trust when they decided independently to share invasive surveillance data with over 100 state and federal agencies,” said Shelby Hebert, a candidate for the District 2 seat held by Mayor Kasey Reynolds.
“If Chico PD is committed to a relationship of integrity with civilians that includes accountability and transparency, they will welcome a Community Oversight Board as an opportunity to improve their credibility with the public and rebuild trust,” Hebert said.
Megan Thomas Petty, who is challenging Councilmember Tom van Overbeek in District 6, also says that change is needed.
“I am alarmed at how these camera systems have upset traditional expectations of privacy,” Petty said. “It is time to reject these camera networks and at the very least, let the legislative systems catch up on ways to regulate them.”
Elias S. Myers is a freelance journalist and a contributor to ChicoSol.