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Willard Police Department decides not to renew its contract with Flock Safety

Downtown area of Willard MO
Dylan Durrington
Downtown area of Willard MO

The decision follows concerns about Flock cameras raised by Willard residents.

Willard Policy Chief Tom McClain announced Friday that the Willard Police Department will not renew its contract with Flock Safety when the current agreement expires.

The City of Willard said on its Facebook page that the decision follows extensive community feedback about the program.

The Willard Police Department currently uses Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras “to help investigate serious crimes, locate missing/endangered persons, and support traffic safety,” according to the department on its website.

McClain said they made the decision not to renew the contract after listening to residents’ concerns and evaluating the program’s overall cost and value.

Flock cameras have come under intense public scrutiny in recent months. Bolivar City Council decided this month to terminate the city’s contract with Flock Safety after concerns were raised by citizens.

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.