Mobile City Council Approves Surveillance Camera Contract Amidst Privacy Concerns
The Mobile City Council has approved a contract for surveillance cameras, specifically devices capable of reading license plates. This decision followed a debate regarding privacy issues and potential legislative actions by the Alabama Legislature. While Mobile does not utilize 'Flock cameras,' the city employs similar technology. Councilman Ben Reynolds raised questions about the necessity of amending the contract or altering camera usage if state laws change. Public Safety Director Curtis Graves stated that the cameras are used for 'situational awareness' and data is stored for 60 days, unless it becomes part of a criminal investigation. The contract, valued at nearly $700,000, was awarded to Pro-Tec Video, and the cameras will be overseen by the Gulf Coast Technology Center. 
