The Sedona City Council meeting on August 13, 2025, focused on the introduction of Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, aimed at enhancing public safety and law enforcement efficiency in the city. The presentation outlined the functionality, benefits, and limitations of ALPR systems, which have been in use for nearly 50 years, starting in the UK and expanding to the U.S. in the late 1990s.

The ALPR technology captures images of license plates, converting them into machine-readable data that can be matched against databases for stolen vehicles and other criminal activities. This system allows for rapid identification of suspect vehicles, aiding in the recovery of stolen vehicles and supporting various alerts, including Amber and Silver alerts. The technology is designed to improve investigative efficiency and expand coverage beyond an officer's line of sight.

Key benefits highlighted during the meeting included the ability to assist in locating missing persons and apprehending suspects before they can commit further crimes. The Sedona Police Department noted that the city faces unique challenges due to its high visitor volume, which can attract individuals wanted for crimes in other jurisdictions. ALPR technology would provide law enforcement with a real-time tool to identify and intercept these suspects.

The presentation also addressed community concerns regarding privacy and data security. It was emphasized that ALPR systems do not perform facial recognition, do not check vehicle registration, and do not retain images for more than 30 days unless part of an active investigation. Access to the data is restricted to authorized personnel, ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations.

Several success stories from other jurisdictions were shared, demonstrating the effectiveness of ALPR technology in solving crimes and enhancing public safety. The meeting concluded with a call for the city to adopt this technology, aligning Sedona with modern law enforcement practices and improving the safety of both residents and visitors.