EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Cameras powered by artificial intelligence that capture license plate data are sparking debate in El Paso, as city leaders consider whether to renew a contract for the Flock camera system.

The cameras are positioned across the area and are used by police during investigations.

El Paso City Rep. Lily Limon said some residents she has spoken with strongly support the technology.

“In the people that I’ve spoken to, they rave about it. And you’re really looking at situations of auto theft, kidnapping, those kinds of cases. Excellent tool,” Limon said.

The city has 150 Flock cameras installed using a more than $700,000 state grant that expires March 3.

The current contract with Flock is set to end May 16, and City Council is expected to discuss whether to renew during Tuesday’s meeting.

RECOMMENDED: POLL: Should the City of El Paso keep or remove license plate surveillance program?

While Limon said she values the cameras, she also said she wants more clarity about how the data is used and whether federal immigration authorities can access it.

“My focus is on how ICE is using this data? And then, in reality, is ICE able to access this data?” Limon said.

Emily Schmalz reports on City reps considering whether to keep or remove Flock cameras (Credit: KFOX14)

City officials said the cameras are used to search license plate data after a crime is reported, similar to technology the city has used since 2006.

Officials also said the system does not provide real-time tracking of individuals, but instead stores vehicle data for investigative purposes.

They said the cameras have helped investigations at a time when the police department is short-staffed.

Limon said she does not expect the contract to be rejected, but said she is still seeking answers before a final decision.

“I do not believe, just my thought, that the contract will be denied. We’re at a point of gathering information. For me, tell me, give me answers to these questions. I value the cameras. I value the information that they provide to our first responders,” Limon said.

RECOMMENDED: Las Cruces Young Park shooting: jury convicts Nathan Rivas of 3 first-degree murders

Residents interviewed also expressed mixed views.

One man said, “I feel like there’s definitely some value in having that security, but obviously, with AI, what else can you get from that?” He added, “They say they’re just tracking license plates, but could it be tracking people’s faces as well?”

Another resident said, “I’m not especially concerned about them.”

Limon said a presentation with more details about the Flock camera system is expected at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

Below is a letter from the Chief of the El Paso Police Department, Peter Pacillas, addressed to El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson and City Council, where he informs them of how the Flock cameras were funded, where they are posted and how they have helped.

Below is a information sheet the City of El Paso posted on its website addressing privacy concerns people have regarding Flock cameras.

Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.