Columbia launches public comment page on Flock cameras

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The City of Columbia has launched a BeHeard page to collect public comments on the use of Flock cameras.

The City Council on Monday unanimously approved to hold a public hearing on the cameras at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9 at city hall.

The Flock camera system was first approved in October 2024.

This hearing comes as more communities nationwide have been ending their contracts with Flock over concerns of its use. U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced a bill last month targeting the technology.

In August, Pulaski County terminated its contract with Flock after holding a community forum to receive feedback on Flock. Maries County ended its agreement on Monday after a Flock representative failed to show up to a public meeting on Oct. 15.

Jefferson City renewed its own agreement in August.

Columbia's public comment page has seven comments as of 3 p.m.