Sedona City Council is moving forward with a six-month pilot program for a new technology aimed at enhancing public safety, following a recent meeting that highlighted community concerns regarding data privacy and transparency. The council discussed the implementation of a license plate recognition (LPR) system, which has sparked significant public interest and debate.

During the meeting, council members emphasized the importance of addressing community values while integrating this technology. They encouraged attendees to voice their concerns during the public forum, particularly regarding data sharing and retention policies. A key point raised was the suggestion for a citizens review board to oversee the program, aimed at fostering public trust and ensuring accountability.

Chief and Commander discussed the potential for a transparency portal that would provide real-time data on the system's usage, including the number of vehicles detected and the nature of data shared. This portal is seen as a way to alleviate concerns about privacy by allowing the public to see how data is managed and used.

The council is also considering feedback from community members, including specific requests for data retention periods and control over data sharing. The pilot program will allow the council to assess the technology's effectiveness and community response before making any long-term commitments.

As Sedona moves forward with this initiative, the council remains committed to balancing technological advancements with the community's need for transparency and trust. The next steps will involve gathering public input and refining the program based on community feedback, ensuring that the implementation aligns with the values of Sedona residents.