We’re asking the Town Board for two things.
The two asks
End the Flock contract and take the cameras down.
The Police Chief has said the Town could end the program without owing more money. The contract renews on its own, two years at a time, unless either side gives notice at least 30 days before a term ends. And if the Town doesn’t budget the money, the agreement lets it end the contract with 30 days’ written notice, without penalty.
Hold a public hearing before voting on any similar technology.
Fifty-six cameras went up on our roads without a single public hearing. The next decision like this should start with one, and with public comment.
Why the Town should end it
It was never put to the public. The Board approved 56 cameras at a workshop meeting in March 2024, with no public hearing. Source: Town Board workshop minutes, March 25, 2024.
The rules came later. When the cameras were approved, the police department’s written rule was a 2011 order written for one plate reader on a patrol car. Its current policy took effect in 2025, according to the department. Sources: General Order 11-31, Police Department letter, Sept. 23, 2026.
Outside agencies have searched them. At the Oct. 29 presentation, the Police Chief acknowledged that agencies outside the Town had searched the Town’s camera database, Times Hudson Valley reported. Source: Times Hudson Valley, Nov. 4, 2026.
The audits haven’t been shown. The Chief said “audits have been done.” In response to our records requests, the Town hasn’t produced one. Sources: the presentation at 1:19:54, records request 2026-00989, marked filled Oct. 22, 2026.
It costs real money. The Town pays Flock $175,000 a year and has paid $357,000 so far. Sources: Flock Order Form, Town accounts payable report.
The Town can end it. The Chief said the Town could end the program without owing more money. The City of Newburgh has already voted to end its own use of Flock. Sources: Times Hudson Valley, Nov. 4, 2026, City Resolution No. 224-2026.
Where things stand
Town of Newburgh
Still running
The Town still pays Flock $175,000 a year for 58 devices: 56 cameras and 2 portable units. It has paid Flock $357,000 so far, across nine invoices. Radio Catskill reported the cameras were still in operation as of Oct. 14, 2026.City of Newburgh
Voted to end it
On Sept. 28, 2026, the City Council voted to end the City’s use of Flock and directed the City to stop routine use within 14 days. A written report on whether use has stopped is due within 60 days (Nov. 27), or as soon after as reasonably practicable. Until then, the City’s camera status isn’t confirmed.Orange County
Passed a law
On Nov. 5, 2026, the County Legislature voted 17 to 0 for Local Law No. 9 of 2026, which would bar plate readers that share data with outside networks from County roads and property. As of Nov. 7, we haven’t found a public record that the County Executive has signed it.