At the August 25 Greer City Council meeting, City Administrator Andy Merriman explained his decision, made on August 21, to impose a 90‑day moratorium on the use of the city’s Flock automated license‑plate reader (ALPR) cameras. The pause allows staff to conduct a thorough review of internal policies, procedures, training and public‑privacy concerns.
Camera coverage and data handling
Merriman reported that all ten of Greer’s ALPR cameras have been physically covered and will remain so for the duration of the moratorium. The review will also examine how data generated by the system is stored and used. Flock Safety, the vendor that supplies Greer’s ALPR equipment, recently announced it will reduce its data‑retention period from 30 days to seven days, a change that prompted additional questions from council members.
Council response and next steps
Council members expressed a desire to hold a public workshop on the issue before the moratorium expires, indicating a commitment to transparency and community input. The council’s proactive stance reflects a broader concern among residents about privacy and the balance between public safety and individual liberty.
Related ordinance approval
In the same meeting, council approved the second and final reading of an ordinance annexing a 1.5‑acre parcel at 2840 South S.C. Highway 101 into the city. The parcel, owned by First Citizens Bank & Trust, is slated for commercial‑corridor development, with plans for a new bank building. The planning commission had held a public hearing on August 17 and recommended approval; the council passed the measure unanimously.
Implications for the community
The moratorium underscores Greer’s dedication to safeguarding constitutional rights while ensuring public‑safety tools are used responsibly. By pausing the cameras and reviewing procedures, the administration aims to provide clearer guidance for law‑enforcement use, protect residents’ privacy, and maintain trust between the city and its citizens.
Officials expect to present findings and any revised policies at the upcoming workshop, giving parents, business owners and faith‑based groups an opportunity to voice concerns and suggestions.
Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.
