Longmont Community,
Longmont, like many communities across the country, has seen increased discussion about Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, including questions about what information these systems collect, how that information is stored, who may access it, and how law enforcement agencies use it.
Longmont Public Safety has used ALPR technology for several years as an investigative resource to help officers and investigators locate vehicles associated with specific public safety needs. Its use has ranged from helping locate a missing person with dementia to supporting investigations involving serious felony offenses.
At the same time, this technology’s value does not eliminate our responsibility to carefully consider privacy, transparency, accountability, and public trust. Maintaining community trust requires more than complying with applicable law. It requires regularly evaluating our practices, considering concerns when they are raised, and making changes when appropriate.
Over the past year, questions have been raised nationally and locally regarding Flock Safety and its data practices and policies. The City Council and staff took those concerns seriously. Public Safety evaluated other options and, in 2026, entered into an agreement with Axon to provide ALPR technology. As part of that transition, Longmont removed its 15 fixed Flock ALPR cameras.
The transition also created an opportunity to evaluate Longmont’s ALPR program before installing replacement cameras. Rather than simply replacing one system with another, Public Safety determined that it was appropriate to review our policies, procedures, auditing requirements, data-sharing practices, documentation requirements, and other safeguards. We are also committed to improving transparency by providing information about how technology is used, where fixed cameras are located, and how Longmont’s ALPR data is accessed and shared.
This review is also occurring as Colorado continues to consider changes to state law governing ALPR technology. Longmont Public Safety has been actively engaged with legislators and in discussions regarding proposed ALPR legislation since 2025. We support clear, responsible standards that protect individual privacy while preserving law enforcement’s ability to use ALPR technology for legitimate public safety purposes.
For these reasons, Longmont Public Safety has delayed deploying the 15 replacement Axon ALPR cameras while this review is completed and the legal environment continues to develop.
Longmont Public Safety will continue evaluating the program and the evolving legal and technological environment surrounding ALPRs. We will provide additional information as the review is completed and decisions are made regarding the future deployment and use of ALPR technology in Longmont.
Zach Ardis
Assistant City Manager
Longmont Public Safety
David Moore
Police Chief
Longmont Police Department