In an August 11, 2026 memo to the Oceana County Board of Commissioners, Undersheriff Ryan Schiller gave the following statement on the future of the Flock Safety camera trial.
"Our command staff recently met to discuss the next steps regarding Flock Safety’s 'Project Prove It.' Over the past week, we have also met with several local officials who have received a significant amount of public feedback regarding the project, including complaints, phone calls, letters, media inquiries and other expressions of concern.
"We want to emphasize that we continue to see tremendous value in Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology. We believe ALPRs can be an extremely effective investigative tool, particularly for law enforcement agencies in rural communities. The technology can serve as a force multiplier by providing investigative leads that law enforcement may otherwise never have.
"However, after carefully considering the feedback we have received and discussing the issue as a command staff, we have requested that Flock Safety stop any further installation of equipment and halt further efforts related to 'Project Prove It' at this time.
"This decision does not reflect a change in our belief in the value of ALPR technology. Rather, we believe it is important to recognize that our community may not be ready to embrace this technology at this time. We have attended several public meetings where, after receiving additional information and education about how ALPR technology works and how it can be used, some individuals have changed their position. At the same time, it is difficult to determine whether the concerns we are hearing represent the majority of our citizens or simply those who are the most vocal.
"Ultimately, we believe that choosing not to pursue the project at this time is the appropriate decision. Listening to the concerns and wishes of the communities we serve is an important responsibility. We also recognize that without the support of our townships and municipalities, it would be difficult to move forward with a project of this nature, particularly if future funding or participation is dependent upon local support.
"We have not yet received confirmation from Flock Safety regarding when the equipment that has already been installed will be removed. It is possible that the existing equipment may remain in place until the current 90-day period expires. We will provide additional information as we receive it.
"We hope this information is helpful as you continue to meet with the citizens and township officials you represent. We also want to sincerely thank you for your initial support of this project. As we said when this process began, we don’t know what we don’t know. As we have learned more, listened to our communities, and considered the concerns being raised, we believe stepping back at this time is the right decision."
