BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Blount County commissioners have approved a resolution setting a public hearing on the county’s use of automated license plate reader cameras, following months of debate and public comment over the technology.
The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m. and will provide residents, commissioners, and the Blount County Sheriff’s Office an opportunity to discuss the use of the cameras in a dedicated public forum.
The Sheriff’s Office currently operates 21 Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras throughout the county under a contract that runs through November 2028.
The cameras capture license plate numbers and vehicle information that investigators can use to help locate suspects, recover stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to crimes, and assist in missing persons cases.
Supporters Say Hearing Will Improve Understanding
District 9 Commissioner David Corwin, who helped bring the resolution forward, said the goal is to allow residents and law enforcement officials to address concerns and misconceptions about the technology.
“The goal of this meeting is to let everybody share in an open forum what they’re feeling and what their priorities are,” Corwin said.
Under the approved format, the Sheriff’s Office will be allotted 20 minutes to make a presentation, commissioners will have time to ask questions, and one hour will be reserved for public comment.
Corwin said he hopes both commissioners and the public will leave with a better understanding of how the cameras operate and why law enforcement considers them valuable investigative tools.
Co-sponsor Commissioner Tom Shields said the hearing offers an opportunity for transparency and accountability regarding a topic that has generated significant public interest.
Opponents Question the Process
Not all commissioners supported the move.
District 10 Commissioner David Wells voted against the resolution, arguing that public input can already be provided during regular commission meetings and that public hearings are traditionally tied to a specific legislative action.
“So, there is a public forum already in place to hear these opinions and thoughts on it,” Wells said.
Wells emphasized that his opposition was based on the process rather than the cameras themselves.
“I am not telling you whether I am for or against these devices,” Wells said. “I am for the right processes.”
He also expressed concern that the hearing’s format could limit the number of citizens who have the opportunity to speak.
Residents Voice Differing Opinions
Community members continue to express mixed views about the technology.
Some residents say the cameras provide valuable assistance to law enforcement, especially in locating missing people or tracking criminal suspects.
Others have raised concerns about privacy and government surveillance, arguing that the use of license plate reader technology should receive public scrutiny.
Several residents who spoke with WVLT said they support holding a public hearing so all sides can be heard before any future decisions are made.
Sheriff’s Office Supports Camera Program
In a letter sent to commissioners in September, the Blount County Sheriff’s Office defended the use of the cameras, saying they are deployed in accordance with Tennessee law and agency policy.
The Sheriff’s Office said each camera search requires a documented investigative purpose and a case number, and usage is logged and audited. Officials also stated that personally identifiable vehicle data is not sold and is handled according to Tennessee law.
What Happens Next
The Nov. 17 public hearing will focus on gathering information and public input. No vote is currently scheduled on eliminating or modifying the camera program.
County leaders say the hearing is intended to help residents better understand the technology while giving commissioners additional information about community concerns and law enforcement needs.
