City Seeks Public Input on Fleet Surveillance Tech

The City of Syracuse, New York, is currently seeking community input on proposed surveillance technology for public works fleet management and crime investigation.

The city’s Department of Public Works is considering the installation of GPS tracking and artificial intelligence cameras on the department’s trucks and equipment. The technology would continuously store data in a cloud-based environment that can be accessed by fleet operations superintendents. The cameras would also provide images along driver routes to aid in ensuring crew safety and accountability.

To help aid with crime investigations, the Syracuse Police Department is considering the use of street cameras that would capture still images of license plates after criminal activity has occurred.

Engaging residents in public comment on surveillance technology is part of Mayor Ben Walsh’s Surveillance Technology Policy. Walsh signed an executive order for surveillance technology in 2020 as part of the city’s response to police reform and accountability. The executive order also led to the creation of Syracuse’s Surveillance Technology Advisory Group, which guarantees proper vetting and transparency on surveillance technology use by city government.

The group will accept public comment on the proposed technology through Dec. 20.