New Bedford CivicMeeting.net Weekly

Police Chief Jason Thody presented internal audit findings revealing improper use of automated license plate reader cameras and outlined proposed safeguards. Proposed restrictions include shortening data retention windows, mandating documented reasonable suspicion for searches, and restricting system access to supervisors. The committee voted to table action until Chief Thody completes a public working group process.

The Ordinance Committee voted 8-3 to advance a draft ordinance regulating municipal automated license plate readers and surveillance technology to the full City Council. The proposed measure establishes strict transparency, data governance, and public hearing requirements before surveillance contracts can be signed or renewed. The move aims to set binding municipal oversight following recent concerns over camera deployment.

Officials discussed the upcoming November 12 expiration of the city's contract with Flock Safety and plans to establish a stakeholder working group. The committee is evaluating whether to renew, modify, or seek alternative vendors for automated license plate reader technology. The working group will spend the next two months gathering community input to guide future procurement decisions.