Lynnwood Ends Deal With License‑Plate Reader Company Over Privacy Fears
The city council of Lynnwood voted unanimously to terminate its partnership with an automated license‑plate reader (ALPR) firm. The decision follows a growing wave of community concern after a university study revealed that out‑of‑state agencies had accessed the city’s network—potentially for immigration enforcement—and similar findings emerged in other county systems.
Key Facts
- Contract Details
- Two‑year agreement worth $171,000, largely funded by a state grant and the police budget.
Cancellation cost remains uncertain but could help mitigate a $5 million budget shortfall.
- Data Privacy Concerns
- Vendor allowed federal agencies such as Customs and Border Protection to tap thousands of networks nationwide.
- Lynnwood’s system was queried >100,000 times in nine days; at least 16 queries linked to immigration matters.
- A “nationwide lookup” feature enabled broader access until disabled.
- Impact on Public Safety
- Police chief acknowledged the technology’s value for solving crimes but noted that alternatives are pricier.
Wider Context
- Other Communities
- Mountlake Terrace ended a similar deal before installation.
Several towns have paused or suspended the program pending policy changes.
- Legislative Developments
- A state bill to regulate ALPRs is currently in the legislature.
- Some officials hope it could allow a safe return of cameras under stricter safeguards.
Takeaway
The council’s decision highlights the tension between public safety tools and privacy rights. By terminating the contract, Lynnwood aims to restore trust and protect residents’ data while awaiting clearer regulations on automated license‑plate readers.
