San Diego, December 17, 2025
The San Diego City Council has voted to allow the continued use of surveillance technologies by the Police Department, including Smart Streetlights and Automated License Plate Readers, despite community privacy concerns. The decision followed a divided council vote and highlights a push for public safety while addressing fears of mass surveillance. The council has mandated regular reviews and the establishment of an oversight committee to ensure privacy protections and transparency.
San Diego Moves Forward with Surveillance Technologies Amid Privacy Concerns
City Council’s Vote Highlights Public Safety and Oversight Measures
San Diego, CA – The San Diego City Council has voted to continue the San Diego Police Department’s (SDPD) use of surveillance technologies, including Smart Streetlights and Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs), despite ongoing privacy concerns from residents and advocacy groups.
City Council Decision
On December 9, 2025, the City Council approved policies allowing SDPD to maintain and operate 54 existing surveillance technologies. This decision followed extensive public comment and debate, with many residents expressing apprehension about potential privacy infringements. The council’s vote was 5-3 in favor, with Councilmembers Sean Elo-Rivera and Henry Foster III voting against, and Councilmember Jennifer Campbell abstaining.
Public Concerns
During the council meeting, numerous residents and community leaders voiced concerns that the surveillance technologies could lead to mass surveillance and potential misuse of data. They highlighted the risk of data being accessed by federal authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), despite assurances that California law prohibits such sharing. Privacy advocates also questioned the transparency and oversight of the technologies, citing previous instances where surveillance equipment was deployed without public knowledge or input.
SDPD’s Position and Reassurances
SDPD officials emphasized that the surveillance technologies are intended solely for law enforcement purposes, such as solving crimes and enhancing public safety. They assured the council and the public that the data collected would not be used for immigration enforcement and that strict policies are in place to protect individual privacy. The department also committed to ongoing transparency and community engagement regarding the use of these technologies.
Background on Surveillance Technologies
Smart Streetlights are energy-efficient LED lights equipped with cameras and sensors, designed to monitor public spaces for safety and operational efficiency. ALPRs are devices that capture images of vehicle license plates, which are then compared to databases to identify vehicles of interest. Both technologies have been implemented in various cities across the nation, with San Diego’s program being one of the most extensive.
Next Steps
The City Council has directed SDPD to conduct regular reviews of the surveillance technologies and to report back to the council and the public on their effectiveness and adherence to privacy protections. Additionally, the council has called for the establishment of an independent oversight committee to monitor the use of these technologies and address any emerging concerns.
Conclusion
The decision to continue the use of surveillance technologies in San Diego reflects a balancing act between enhancing public safety and addressing privacy concerns. Ongoing dialogue between city officials, law enforcement, and the community will be crucial in ensuring that these technologies are used responsibly and transparently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What surveillance technologies is the San Diego Police Department using?
The San Diego Police Department is using Smart Streetlights and Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) as part of its surveillance program.
What are Smart Streetlights and ALPRs?
Smart Streetlights are energy-efficient LED lights equipped with cameras and sensors to monitor public spaces. ALPRs are devices that capture images of vehicle license plates and compare them to databases to identify vehicles of interest.
Why are residents concerned about these technologies?
Residents are concerned that these technologies could lead to mass surveillance, potential misuse of data, and privacy infringements, especially regarding access by federal authorities like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
What has the City Council decided regarding these technologies?
The City Council voted to continue the use of these surveillance technologies, directing SDPD to conduct regular reviews and establish an independent oversight committee to monitor their use.
How will the San Diego Police Department ensure privacy protections?
SDPD has implemented strict policies to protect individual privacy, including prohibiting the use of data for immigration enforcement and committing to transparency and community engagement regarding the use of these technologies.
Key Features of San Diego’s Surveillance Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Smart Streetlights | Energy-efficient LED lights equipped with cameras and sensors to monitor public spaces for safety and operational efficiency. |
| Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) | Devices that capture images of vehicle license plates and compare them to databases to identify vehicles of interest. |
| Data Retention | Data collected by these technologies is retained for up to 30 days unless part of an active investigation. |
| Privacy Protections | Strict policies prohibit the use of data for immigration enforcement and ensure transparency and community engagement. |
| Independent Oversight | The establishment of an independent oversight committee to monitor the use of these technologies and address emerging concerns. |
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