BERLIN, Ala. – The Berlin Town Council at its meeting Monday, Jan. 19, welcomed Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Cheryl Hawkins, who answered questions regarding the installation of a Flock Safety camera near Welcome Mini Storage at 5945 County Road 747.
Councilman Keith Hardman stated he heard these types of cameras allegedly allow users to sell whatever data they collect.
Clark advised that isn’t the case, and the camera is not live. She explained that, for example, if your tag is in their system associated with human trafficking or a stolen vehicle, then the camera will scan it and notify local authorities.
It is unclear exactly which type of Flock camera is at the location, but according to the Flock Safety website, “ALPRs (automatic license plate readers) take a point-in-time image of the rear of vehicles on public roadways. Any images not used for an investigation are deleted.” And, “Customers own 100% of their data. Flock does not sell it. Only customers (police, neighborhoods, or businesses) decide who to share data with. Data is deleted after the retention period.” See more at www.flocksafety.com/privacy-ethics.
Next, Mayor Patrick Bates readdressed the Rebuild Alabama annual report and bid. He had recently proposed a modification budget to have farmers market parking lot expenses combined with road repair expenses.
Discussion took place about whether these should be separate bids or if it should remain as is. The council agreed to let it remain combined as one bid. Though Bates advised the council would need to get with the engineer to double check that combining the bids is acceptable.
Town Clerk Keirstyn Montgomery advised that the farmers market plaque needed approval. The plaque is 16×24 inches and will cost $2,349.50. Hardman motioned to approve, and Donald Gunter seconded.
The Town is looking for a lawncare company to assist with mowing, bush hogging and cleaning.
“These can be bidded on as a package deal, or by line item,” Montgomery stated.
Interested parties should contact Montgomery at 256-736-3138 or clerk@berlinal.gov.
The next Berlin Town Council meeting will be Monday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m. at Berlin Town Hall.
