College Station Renewed Flock Safety Contract
The City Council voted 4-2 to maintain its network of 84 license plate reading cameras.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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College Station City Council members voted 4-2 to renew the city contract with Flock Safety. The decision ensures the city will continue to operate its network of 84 license plate reading cameras at an annual cost of nearly $400,000.
Why it matters
The vote followed a public comment period where more than 25 residents provided testimony regarding the surveillance technology. The council's decision confirms that the existing camera network will continue to operate under current city policy.
The city council approved the contract extension in a 4-2 vote following input from 25 residents. The agreement maintains 84 active license plate reading cameras, with the annual operational cost set at nearly $400,000.
The players
College Station City Council
This is the primary governing body responsible for setting local ordinances and authorizing municipal expenditures in College Station.
Flock Safety
This company specializes in automated license plate recognition technology and surveillance systems used by law enforcement agencies across the country.
The details
City officials and residents debated the continued use of the technology during a public comment period before the final vote was cast. The network, which has been in operation since October 2025, will remain a permanent fixture under the renewed contract terms.
Timeline
The city signed the original contract with Flock Safety in September 2025.
The first cameras were installed in College Station in October 2025.
The City Council voted to renew the contract on September 24, 2026.
Legal Context
The decision in College Station contrasts with recent trends in other Texas municipalities that have opted to cancel their agreements with Flock Safety. While cities like Bastrop, Robinson, and Manvel have discontinued the surveillance programs, College Station has chosen to maintain its current infrastructure.
Residents should expect the continued presence of 84 automated cameras throughout the city as part of local security operations. No changes to traffic patterns or new security protocols were announced, but the network remains in active use following the council vote.
The takeaway
The council vote indicates a strong local preference for continuing current surveillance capabilities despite organized public opposition. Residents interested in the future of the network should monitor upcoming budget cycles for potential adjustments to the annual contract costs.
Further reading
For more information on local police oversight and department policies, visit the Law Enforcement section.
Live Poll
Do you support the use of automated license plate reading cameras by police in your community?
