San Marcos, Texas, December 5, 2025
The San Marcos City Council has voted to terminate its contract with Flock Safety, a provider of license plate recognition cameras for local law enforcement. This decision comes amid increasing concerns about data privacy and the possible misuse of collected information. The council’s action is part of a broader trend in Central Texas as communities reassess the use of surveillance technology. Public apprehension over data sharing practices influenced the decision, prompting the Council to keep the original number of surveillance cameras instead of expanding.
San Marcos Ends Contract with Flock Safety
San Marcos, Texas – The San Marcos City Council has decided not to renew its contract with Flock Safety, a company providing license plate recognition (LPR) cameras used by local law enforcement. This decision follows growing concerns over data privacy and the potential misuse of collected information.
Decision Details
On December 2, 2025, the council voted to terminate the existing agreement with Flock Safety, which was set to expire on December 29, 2025. The move reflects a broader trend in Central Texas, where several municipalities have reevaluated their use of surveillance technologies amid privacy concerns.
Background and Community Concerns
In June 2025, the San Marcos City Council voted 5-2 against expanding the use of Flock Safety cameras, opting to maintain the original 14 units instead of adding 19 more. This decision was influenced by public apprehension regarding data sharing practices and the potential for information to be accessed by federal agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Council members expressed worries about the implications of data sharing and the adequacy of existing privacy policies.
Regional Context
San Marcos is not alone in its reassessment of surveillance technologies. In October 2025, Hays County Commissioners Court voted 3-2 to terminate its contract with Flock Safety, citing similar privacy concerns. The county had been using Flock’s LPR cameras since 2022, but the decision to end the contract was driven by apprehensions over data privacy and potential misuse.
Implications for San Marcos
The termination of the contract with Flock Safety means that the San Marcos Police Department will no longer have access to the company’s LPR technology. This decision may impact the department’s ability to utilize automated license plate recognition for investigative purposes. The council’s action underscores the community’s emphasis on privacy and data security in the deployment of surveillance technologies.
Looking Ahead
As San Marcos moves forward, the city may explore alternative technologies or strategies to enhance public safety while addressing privacy concerns. The council’s decision highlights the ongoing dialogue between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve regarding the balance between security measures and individual privacy rights.
Weather Update
As of December 5, 2025, the weather in San Marcos is mostly cloudy with a temperature of 44°F (6°C). Occasional rain and drizzle are expected throughout the day, with a high of 57°F (14°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C). Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Flock Safety?
Flock Safety is a company that provides license plate recognition (LPR) cameras used by law enforcement agencies to assist in investigations by capturing images of passing vehicles and their license plates.
Why did San Marcos decide not to renew its contract with Flock Safety?
The San Marcos City Council decided not to renew its contract with Flock Safety due to growing concerns over data privacy and the potential misuse of collected information.
How does this decision affect the San Marcos Police Department?
The termination of the contract means that the San Marcos Police Department will no longer have access to Flock Safety’s LPR technology, potentially impacting their ability to utilize automated license plate recognition for investigative purposes.
Is San Marcos the only city in Central Texas to make this decision?
No, other municipalities in Central Texas, including Hays County, have also reevaluated their use of surveillance technologies amid privacy concerns. For example, Hays County terminated its contract with Flock Safety in October 2025.
What are the next steps for San Marcos regarding public safety technologies?
While the city has ended its contract with Flock Safety, San Marcos may explore alternative technologies or strategies to enhance public safety while addressing privacy concerns. The council’s decision highlights the ongoing dialogue between law enforcement agencies and the community regarding the balance between security measures and individual privacy rights.
Key Features of the Decision
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Decision Date | December 2, 2025 |
| Contract Expiration | December 29, 2025 |
| Council Vote | 5-2 against renewing the contract |
| Primary Concern | Data privacy and potential misuse of collected information |
| Regional Context | Hays County terminated its contract with Flock Safety in October 2025 due to similar concerns |
| Impact on Police Department | Loss of access to Flock Safety’s license plate recognition technology |
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