City Council Work Session 02.23.2026
Monday, February 23, 2026
Anoka Regional Crime Technology and Information Center (ARCTIC) project implementation
Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) camera overview and privacy safeguards
Drone as First Responder (DFR) program capabilities and flight authorization
Integration of 911 audio and real-time surveillance technologies
Data retention policies and search warrant requirements for public safety technology
Areas of Interest (4)
- Expansion of real-time crime surveillance in Anoka County using drones and license plate readers.
- Concerns regarding the balance of public safety initiatives and individual privacy in Anoka County.
- The implementation of AI-driven 'Drone as First Responder' programs in local police operations.
- The use of Flock Safety ALPR technology in Minnesota amidst ongoing debates over data retention and facial recognition.
Notable Quotes (2)
If the plate is not on that list, there is no notification to law enforcement at all. It just takes the picture and in 30 days due to data retention laws, it's gone.
If you do not have those three, you will not be able to search there prevented. These are required fields before search can be performed.
People (3)
Anthony MendozaLieutenantLead presenter representing the Sheriff's Office regarding the ARCTIC project.
2 quotes
Lead presenter representing the Sheriff's Office regarding the ARCTIC project.
“It goes up, the camera focuses on the horizon. There is no downward facing camera that tracks where it's going.”
Explaining drone privacy protocols during launch.
“There is no personal identifiable data that comes across the system.”
Clarifying data collection from ALPR license plate readers.
JoeUnspecifiedDiscussed travel to Cairo and a recent accident in opening remarks.
Discussed travel to Cairo and a recent accident in opening remarks.
KateUnspecifiedConducted the roll call.
Conducted the roll call.
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (1)
- Work session, February 23rd