Palm Bay officials have paused the city's Flock automated license plate reader system following a permitting review that raised questions about the installation of 16 cameras deployed across the city since 2021. Mayor Rob Medina confirmed the suspension on Aug. 7, 2026, but emphasized it does not involve claims of unconstitutionality. The review was initiated after the city council ordered an investigation into the cameras' placement and construction two weeks prior.
The city manager, Matthew Morton, found the cameras may not have been properly permitted or installed by Flock Safety, the company that operates the system. Medina said the city is holding Flock accountable but hopes to resolve the permitting issues quickly. 'Once that gets cleared up, we plan on increasing the opportunity to keep those license plate readers,' he said.
The system has been in use for five years, with the city council approving the technology in 2021. Former Palm Bay Police Department deputy chief Lance Fisher initially supported the program but has since changed his stance. 'The whole premise behind Flock,' Fisher said, before trailing off.
Medina said he expects Flock representatives to meet with city officials as early as next week to address the permitting process. 'Worst case scenario, we have a catastrophic event here in the city and we can't have that as a crime-solving tool,' he warned. The city is seeking clarity on the next steps for the system, which has been a point of discussion for local law enforcement and residents.