FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 3/5/2013
Councilmember Nick Licata
Councilmember Bruce A. Harrell
City Council Committee to consider legislation to protect public’s privacy from surveillance equipment
Seattle – The Seattle City Council understands the public’s concern with the use of surveillance cameras, whether they are drones or security cameras on the shoreline. On March 6, Councilmembers Nick Licata and Bruce Harrell will introduce new legislation to restrict the use of surveillance equipment unless used under certain circumstances, detailed in the legislation, by the City. The City will have an open and transparent discussion on the use of security cameras throughout the City.
Council Bill 117730 will require all City departments to obtain Council approval prior to acquiring surveillance equipment of any type. It also requires Council review and approval of department protocols for operating the equipment and managing the data collected. The respective department must also proactively conduct outreach in each community in which the department intends to use the equipment.
WHAT: Public Safety, Civil Rights and Technology Committee
WHEN: Wednesday, March 6, 2013, at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Council Chambers, second floor
Seattle City Hall, 600 Fourth Avenue, Seattle 98104
WHO: Councilmember Bruce A. Harrell
Councilmember Nick Licata
Councilmember Mike O’Brien
The committee supports the use of technology when the business case focuses on a specific function that enhances public safety for the community. The committee does not support general surveillance in recreational and residential zones.