Wausau covers all 20 Flock cameras after ending contract

The City of Wausau has covered all 20 of its automated license plate-reading cameras, following the Common Council’s decision to end the city’s use of the Flock Safety system. Public Works crews placed coverings over the cameras Monday, November 9, completing a process directed by the council after its October 29 vote to discontinue the program.

The cameras had been used by the Wausau Police Department to help investigators identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations. Police Chief Matt Barnes has expressed disappointment with the decision, describing the technology as a valuable investigative tool. He said the cameras had helped officers make progress in cases that otherwise might have reached a dead end.

At the same time, Barnes acknowledged residents’ concerns about how information collected by the system is stored and potentially used. He said he respects the council’s decision and understands the privacy concerns behind it. Barnes indicated the department has no immediate plans to pursue another vendor offering similar technology.

The decision in Wausau comes as other communities continue to evaluate the use of automated license plate readers and the balance between investigative benefits and individual privacy.

Marathon County faces a separate decision involving the technology. Its proposed 2027 budget includes approximately $6,300 to continue funding five Flock cameras used by the Sheriff’s Office. The county’s proposed funding and Wausau’s decision highlight differing approaches to the technology in central Wisconsin.