Ferndale Delays Flock Vote, Hosting Info Sessions Nov 5 and 13

(Crystal A. Proxmire, Oct. 15, 2025)

Ferndale, MI – A proposal to renew Flock Safety service in Ferndale has sparked debate between those who value police using the license plate recording cameras to help solve crimes, and those who are concerned over surveillance and the technology being used on a broader scale to potentially violate people’s rights.

Ferndale has been using the system for approximately two years. The series of cameras captures license plate numbers and compares them to a database of plates that are flagged for investigations or for missing persons. The system also retains images for thirty days, so that if a crime occurs, police can review what vehicles were in the area.

City Council was expected to vote on furthering the program at the Oct. 13 meeting.

However at the Sept. 29 Council meeting, officials heard a pretension by Police Chief Dennis Emmi about Flock successes. as well as from residents who spoke at public comment against Flock. Oakland County Times provided a rundown of the discussion here.

Due to the strong community feedback, the City has postponed the vote and will be holding two community conversations about Flock Safety. The first will be a virtual session on Wed, Nov. 5 at 6pm. The second will be on Thursday, Nov 13 at 6:30pm at Ferndale City Hall.

For info on the virtual meeting, or questions, email information@ferndalemi.gov