After much consideration, I have decided to move forward with the removal of all Flock Safety cameras in the City of Independence.
I want to be clear that my position on the cameras themselves has not changed. I continue to believe our original decision to utilize this technology was a sound one. I do not believe the cameras pose the threat to personal privacy or potential for widespread abuse that has sometimes been portrayed, particularly on social media. More importantly, they have proven their value on multiple occasions over the past few years as an effective tool for our law enforcement officers, with none of the feared consequences.
At the same time, good government requires more than simply making the decision we believe is best. It also requires listening to the people we were elected to serve.
We made a concerted effort to inform residents about this issue, provide opportunities for public discussion, and encourage community input. I sincerely appreciate everyone who took the time to attend our meetings, contact City officials, and make their voices heard.
The response has been overwhelmingly opposed to the continued use of the cameras, with very limited public support expressed for keeping them.
Our City Councilmembers have also expressed opposition to their continued use, both publicly and in subsequent conversations I have had with them.
While I personally continue to believe the cameras can be a valuable and appropriate law enforcement tool, I also believe strongly that elected officials must respect the will of the people they represent.
We were elected to serve the residents of Independence, and when our community speaks this clearly, we have an obligation to listen.
For that reason, we will immediately begin the process of removing the Flock Safety cameras from the City of Independence.
Chris Reinersman is mayor of the City of Independence.