DEL NORTE — In a recent meeting, the Town of Del Norte’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to place a multi-year moratorium on installing automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras within town limits. The decision comes as local leaders weigh concerns about privacy, accuracy, and constitutional rights before deciding whether to proceed.
What the Moratorium Covers
The moratorium specifically targets systems like the Flock Safety cameras, which capture images of passing vehicles and use software to read license plate numbers, recording the time, date, and location of each scan. Local law enforcement will be unable to deploy such systems until the review period ends.
Why Trustees Chose to Wait
During the meeting, town officials emphasized several key concerns: whether ALPR systems infringe on Fourth Amendment protections; the potential for collecting location data on individuals not under investigation; and documented instances elsewhere where systems generated faulty readings and misidentifications. Chief of Police Frank Archuleta made clear no request for ALPR deployment is currently pending.
What Happens Next
The moratorium gives Del Norte about one year to gather more data, study community input, and consult experts. Trustees expect to review how other municipalities have handled ALPR systems, what legal frameworks they use, and what oversight or policies accompany them. At the end of the review period, the board will vote again on whether to lift the moratorium, amend it, or ban these cameras entirely.
Community Impacts
- Supporters of ALPR systems argue they can help locate stolen vehicles and assist law enforcement with investigations.
- Opponents raise concerns about privacy erosion—particularly the retention and access to scans of ordinary vehicle traffic.
- The decision reflects Del Norte’s effort to balance public safety, technological possibilities, and individual rights.
Residents with opinions or concerns are encouraged to contact the town clerk’s office or attend upcoming board meetings where this topic will return for discussion as part of ongoing town governance. Town officials have committed to transparency throughout the review process.