Manvel Mayor Dan Davis is calling for the city to end its contract with Flock Safety, citing concerns over privacy, data sharing and the costs of the company’s controversial license plate readers.

“In 2024, I voted for Flock based on the information we had at the time and my desire to give our officers effective tools to keep Manvel safe,” Davis told the Houston Chronicle. “Since then, I’ve learned much more about Flock’s expanding data ecosystem, including Nova, the contractual language surrounding data use, cybersecurity concerns, and the broader sharing and aggregation of information.” Nova is Flock’s AI-powered public safety platform.

Davis on Friday announced on social media that he could no longer support Manvel’s four-year, $137,000 contract with the company, though he added that he doesn’t oppose license plate readers generally. The issue is expected to come before Manvel City Council at its Sept. 8 meeting.

In his post, the mayor said he asked questions about language in Manvel’s contract and how data collected by Flock is used. He said he was troubled when a Flock representative could not provide clear answers.

“Good leadership requires being willing to reconsider a decision when new information comes to light,” Davis said. “Knowing what I know today, I would not cast the same vote. Public safety is essential, but so are privacy, local control and public trust.”

For his part, Davis said residents have complained to him about the license plate readers. Based on responses he has received, Davis estimated that more than 60% support ending the city’s relationship with Flock.

He said some community members who disagree with removing the cameras appear to be supportive of law enforcement technology generally.

“When I’ve explained my specific concerns with Flock, I’ve found there is actually significant common ground,” Davis said.

Davis has also cited the cost of the system as Manvel works through what he described as a tight budget. He said the taxpayer money spent on Flock should be redirected to other public safety or infrastructure needs.