Milwaukee Common Council voices concern of Flock camera use

In a former letter to Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman and the Fire and Police Commission, city leaders are sounding the alarm on local law enforcement's use of FLOC license plate readers. The letter highlights a string of local privacy abuses that includes three MPD officers investigated for misusing the system. It also points out cities across Wisconsin that are severing ties with FLOC altogether. Council members are demanding full access to MPD search history and sharing agreements. They're urging the department to adopt stricter safeguards, including a seven-day data retention limit and independent auditing. With a deadline set for September 30th, officials warn that future funding for the camera program will be heavily scrutinized during the upcoming 2027 budget deliberations. Milwaukee Fire and Police, well, the Milwaukee Police Department, they responded with this statement just into the newsroom at Regent Park. The Milwaukee Police Department respects and values the concerns and positions of our elected officials. We will work with the FPC to address our council members' concerns and respond to the council after we have carefully reviewed their request and can provide a factual and thoughtful response. And just within the last 30 minutes or so, we also heard back from the Fire and Police Commission on this. Executive Director Leon Todd declined an interview, quite like MPD, but did send us a response saying FPC heard a recent update from MPD that was comprehensive. FPC is currently in the process of conducting its own independent audit related to the FLOC system. FPC plans on responding in a timely manner. Some back and forth between those two groups. Well, surprise, surprise, the textbook swing state is split on the race for governor. But voters do agree on what issue is most important. Our Jason Kelby here in the studio to dig into exactly what it means. Hey, Jason. Hey, Mary.