BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — The debate over the use of Flock cameras in Bakersfield is continuing as the city’s network of license plate-reading cameras grows and some residents raise concerns about privacy, public safety and how much surveillance is too much.
Flock safety camera (FILE)
There are now about 130 Flock cameras throughout the city of Bakersfield. Police have said the technology is a tool to help solve crimes, and in reporting last month, police said the cameras have helped investigators identify suspects and solve crimes faster as the city considered extending its contract.
But some community members are pressuring the city to answer questions about how the cameras are used and whether the public has had enough opportunity to weigh in.
“I really would love the city to think about what it is trying to accomplish in putting these cameras up,” said Jason Cosper, co-founder of the Anti-Capitalist Computer Club.
Cosper said he worries about the impact on privacy as the system expands.
“Maybe there is no chance for privacy with the expansion of the system in the city. And I don’t think that’s fair to my neighbors, fellow residents, and other people in the community,” Cosper said.
Across the country, surveillance cameras made by a company called Flock Safety have become a flashpoint, with some people protesting and cutting down the devices over concerns they could violate privacy. (Photo: KUTV)
Cosper called the cameras “a very large privacy violation.” While acknowledging public safety concerns, he said the city has other needs that could take priority.
“You improve the roads, you improve the parks, you improve other parts of the city, and five years from now, we can still enjoy those improvements, whereas opposed to just, okay, we’re paying for some of the leased equipment for a particular amount of time,” Cosper said.
The city says it has $296.1 million budgeted for street maintenance this fiscal year. That money is not specifically tied to Flock cameras.
Cosper said his group spoke during public comment in June, asking the city to consider ending its contract with Flock Safety, and he said he does not believe residents were given enough opportunity to weigh in.
FILE – A Flock Safety license plate reader is seen along a public road, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David Goldman, File)
“So we’re really trying to put the pressure on from that perspective,” Cosper said.
Now, the Kern County Criminal Justice Coalition and the Anti-Capitalist Computer Club are bringing the conversation to the community with a public discussion.
“I’d really like to see our neighbors come out and have a discussion about and I really welcome people on both sides to come and discuss this,” Cosper said.
The meeting is open to the public and will be held Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at Salon Juarez Hall on East 18th Street.