Boulder opens bids for license plate readers
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Boulder launched a competitive bidding process for its automatic license plate reader as it reassesses its relationship with surveillance tech firm Flock Safety.
Why it matters: The move comes as Boulder officials weigh growing concerns over privacy, data use and oversight tied to the technology.
State of play: Boulder has contracted with Flock for about four years, but scrutiny over the vendor's national data sharing practices is prompting the city to seek alternatives.
- The city signed a temporary extension earlier this year with Flock that included updated privacy provisions that allow Boulder to exit the deal with 30 days' notice.
- Officials expect Flock to submit a bid to remain its provider.
How it works: Proposals will be scored on a 100-point scale, including factors such as technology, cost and privacy compliance, per the request for bids.
- The selected vendor will operate about 50 camera units at key arterial roads and city entrance points that can capture plates and vehicle details like make, model and color.
- The city did not request a specific data retention period, but Boulder wants control over that time frame and data sharing.
The big picture: Flock has seen pushback over its data sharing with federal immigration enforcement agencies.
- Denver recently cut ties and signed a new contract with its body camera vendor Axon, which Boulder already partners with to generate reports on body camera footage.
What they're saying: "The ideal vendor is one that treats privacy with the sanctity it demands and who demonstrates those values in practice," the request for proposal read.
- "Furthermore, the city wants to ensure that our contractors exemplify the highest degree of transparency, accountability and integrity."
What's next: The city will accept bids until May 29.