Northern Kentucky municipalities grappled with thorny public safety and privacy matters this week, with Independence residents overwhelmingly opposing automated license plate readers while Edgewood moved to reduce firefighter work hours to improve staffing.

The City of Independence held a packed public meeting to discuss Flock cameras, which capture vehicle license plates on public roads, drawing sharp criticism from attendees. Residents in several Northern Kentucky cities are voicing concerns about Flock cameras, citing Fourth Amendment privacy violations and potential for abuse.

Police Chief Brian Ferayorni and Flock company representative Phil Arnold defended the technology, saying it lacks facial recognition and audio recording capabilities, noting that debate continues over whether the technology improves public safety or infringes on privacy. The chief emphasized checks and balances preventing officer abuse and offered a QR code linking to the contract details.

However, resident Terry Kleintrup likened the company's presentation to a sales pitch, citing 17 lawsuits in different cities. Another resident claimed that sharing information with federal agencies compromises local ownership of the data. Mayor Chris Reinersman attempted to address concerns, but residents responded with sustained disapproval. Notably, Fort Mitchell has ended its use of automated license plate readers from Flock Safety after residents raised concerns about privacy and surveillance. No decision was made at Independence's meeting, though council members signaled alignment with resident preferences against the cameras.

In Edgewood, the city council voted to reduce firefighter and paramedic work schedules from 56 hours per week to 48 hours. Fire Chief Tom Dickman told council that many cities in Northern Kentucky have gone to this 48 hour work week, and Edgewood is losing personnel to departments offering shorter shifts. Dickman noted the city had lost three staff members recently with a fourth considering departure. Council member Jamie Ruehl cast the only opposing vote.

Meanwhile, Fort Mitchell and Edgewood set tax rates. Fort Mitchell kept its property tax rate at $.108 per $100 of assessed value for the 11th consecutive year, while the park rate remained $.02 per $100. Edgewood lowered its property tax rate to $.182 per $100 from $.185 per $100.

In Florence, council approved an Industrial Revenue Bond proposal for an Athena corporation development on Houston Road and passed ordinances for a children's playground for children with special needs and a parking area for commercial vehicles.