Legislation Details

File #: 2026-5859   
Type: Consent Calendar Item
Body: City Council
On agenda: 5/5/2026
Title: Recommendation to Accept the Annual Automated License Plate Readers Data Report from the Alameda Police Department. (Police 10031130)
Attachments: 1. Exhibit 1: Audit Memorandum, 2. Exhibit 2: Policy 438
Title

Recommendation to Accept the Annual Automated License Plate Readers Data Report from the Alameda Police Department. (Police 10031130)
Body

To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

From: Adam W. Politzer, Interim City Manager

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The City of Alameda (City) Police Department (APD) acquired Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) in 2023 and uses this technology to assist with public safety. Pursuant to APD's Policy 438.11, APD is required to submit an annual report that contains an audit of use and efficacy.

BACKGROUND

In accordance with Policy 438 (see Exhibit 2), it is the responsibility of the ALPR Administrator to ensure that an audit of ALPR detection browsing inquiries is conducted at least once each calendar year. APD audits a sampling of ALPR system utilization from the prior 12-month period to verify proper use in accordance with the authorized uses. The audit randomly selects at least 10 detective browsing inquiries conducted by APD employees during the preceding 12-month period and determines if each inquiry meets the requirements established in this policy.

The audit is documented in an internal department memorandum to the Chief of Police. The memorandum includes any data errors or policy violations found so that these errors can be corrected and violations addressed. Additionally, the memorandum includes an evaluation of the system's efficacy, including relevant crime statistics and/or data to help the community assess whether use of the technology is beneficial. After the Chief of Police's review, the memorandum and any associated documentation are filed and retained in accordance with the City's retention policies.

Beginning on January 1, 2024, and annually thereafter, the Chief of Police is expected to submit an annual report to the City Council. The annual report must include, at a minimum:

1. A summary of the audit memorandum, including any corrective action taken, except any disclosure of confident...

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