Resolution authorizing Public Comment on Public Safety Technology Enhancements.

Adoption of the attached resolution and approval of motion.

As presented during the February 3, 2025, work session, Public Safety and Information Technology are proposing several public safety technology enhancements aimed at improving community safety, streamlining investigations, and maximizing law enforcement efficiency. These enhancements build upon the City’s existing public safety practices by integrating new technologies, such as Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR), Artificial Intelligence (AI) video analytics, mobile surveillance trailer cameras, and Flock fixed-position cameras.
 
To ensure transparency and provide the community with the opportunity to participate in this process, the City is launching a 30-day public comment period beginning March 25, 2025, and concluding April 23, 2025. Community members may submit feedback online through Every Voice Mankato during this period. Additionally, public comment will be accepted in person at the April 28, 2025, City Council meeting. Do note that these technology enhancements do not require any prescribed public engagement or public comment by state law. However, the City of Mankato is recommending following the same public engagement process as that of the installation of officer body-worn cameras implemented in 2022.
 
Following the conclusion of the public comment period, City Council members will receive a comprehensive summary of the collective feedback, which will be reviewed and discussed at the April 28, 2025, meeting.
 
Staff does recommend that the City Council pass the resolution authorizing the City Manager to initiate a public comment period regarding Public Safety technology enhancements.