Automated License Plate Reading Comes to Town

After a presentation by South Lake Minnetonka Police Department (SLMPD), the Shorewood City Council approved the installation of a Flock Safety camera system during their regular meeting on October 23, 2023. The Public Safety Aid awarded to cities in the 2023 legislative session was used to fund the camera system, which includes four cameras: one for each city in the SLMPD service area. Each of those cities contributed an additional $800 due to cost increases.

Flock Safety cameras are automated license plate reading (ALPR) devices designed to assist law enforcement in solving and reducing crime. The cameras capture images of vehicle license plates and characteristics, sending real-time alerts to law enforcement when a stolen car or known wanted suspect from a national crime database is detected. They can also aid in locating vehicles associated with missing persons in AMBER or Silver Alerts.

• Source: Flock Safety

The decision to use this technology is similar to actions taken by other Minnesota communities. For instance, the Wayzata Police Department has installed Flock cameras to enhance public safety. Also, the Brooklyn Park City Council unanimously approved the use of surveillance technology, including Flock cameras, to address violent crime.

While Shorewood’s approval reflects a commitment to leveraging technology for public safety, it’s important to note that the implementation of such systems often involves concerns regarding privacy and data security. CM Zerby asked the SLMPD representative making the presentation about securing any information gathered and who has access to the data collected. Both the SLMPD rep and Flock Safety assert that their systems are designed to capture objective evidence without compromising individual privacy. Data is typically stored for a limited time and access restricted to authorized personnel.

After a year of implementation, there appears to be no reporting back to the city of Shorewood about the performance–success or failures–of the system. The cost of annual camera subscriptions, confirmed camera locations and maintenance, as well as the measurements for success of the program, are not publicly available as of January, 2025.

For the most current information on the privacy policies, locations of deployment, costs and operation of the Flock camera system in Shorewood or other South Lake communities, residents are encouraged to contact the South Lake Minnetonka Police Department. Or: