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Third Public Comment Period Opening for Technologies Subject to the City’s Surveillance Ordinance

The City of Seattle has published the third set of draft of Surveillance Impact Reports (SIRs) for three of the 26 currently existing surveillance technologies, per the Surveillance Ordinance.   

We’re looking for the public’s input on the SIRs to help the provide Council with insight into community perspective and ensure City policies responsibly govern the use of these technologies. 

The public comment period is currently open today and runs through November 14, 2020. The complete list of technologies in this group for review, can be found below. We have three ways to allow residents to provide input and share their concerns. 

  1. Residents can submit their surveillance comments on each technology online at: City of Seattle Privacy website
  1. Seattle residents can also mail comments to Attn: Surveillance & Privacy Program, Seattle IT, PO Box 94709, Seattle, WA 98124 
  1. City Surveillance Technology Event: The City will hold an online event to allow attendees ask questions from department technology experts and hear from City leadership.  

More information on these technologies, as well as the City of Seattle’s Privacy program, can be found online at the City of Seattle’s Privacy website

This public input period is a valuable part of our process. The City of Seattle is committed to being transparent and accountable. Hearing from residents is part of the process. We welcome your thoughts and comments. We look forward to hearing what you have to say. 

Public Meetings 

Meeting Date and Time Location 
City Surveillance Technology Event  October 28th, 2020  12pm-1 p.m. WebEx Event Dial-in Info: +1-408-418-9388 Access code: 146 533 4053 

Seattle Police Department’s Forward Looking Infrared Real-time Video (FLIR) 

Seattle Police Department’s Forward Looking Infrared Real-time Video (FLIR) technology is under review for public comment as a retroactive surveillance technology. This technology provides a platform for aerial photography and digital video of large outdoor locations (e.g., crime scenes and disaster damage, etc.).  

Seattle Police Department’s Situational Awareness Cameras Without Recording  

Seattle Police Department’s Situational Awareness Cameras Without Recording technology is under review for public comment as a retroactive surveillance technology. These portable cameras allow officers to observe around corners or other areas during operations where officers need to see the situation before entering an area of concern.  

Seattle Police Department’s Video Recording Systems 

Seattle Police Department’s Video Recording Systems technology is under review for public comment as a retroactive surveillance technology. These systems record events that take place in a Blood Alcohol Collection (BAC) Room, precinct holding cells, interview, and lineup rooms.