The meeting’s public comment segment was dominated by discussions on the controversial use of Flock cameras, which several residents criticized for compromising privacy and potentially facilitating misuse. Alicia Schulp, a Lakeville resident, sounded the alarm on the dangers of surveillance technologies, referencing a case from Texas where Flock cameras were allegedly used to track a pregnant woman seeking an abortion. “Imagine being watched, photographed, tracked, not because you committed a crime, but because you made a deeply personal medical decision,” Schulp urged, calling for the termination of the Flock camera contract to safeguard citizens’ privacy.

Adding to the discourse, Jacob Borealis highlighted the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of Flock cameras, advocating for a comprehensive cybersecurity audit. Borealis argued that without proper oversight, ALPR data use could infringe on Fourth Amendment rights. He emphasized, “Public safety and privacy must be protected together. It’s not a trade-off.”

Dane Schnean further linked the camera implementation to broader societal issues, particularly its potential use in Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Schnean described a distressing incident of individuals being forcibly removed from their homes, labeling it an “ICE kidnapping” and warning that such technologies could instill fear within communities. He implored the council to reconsider the use of these surveillance tools to protect families and prevent the creation of an atmosphere of fear.

The speakers called for a review of the contractual policies governing ALPR use, advocating for an approach that balances public safety with privacy rights.

Transitioning to other agenda items, the Public Works Director provided a quarterly report, noting an increase in snow plow callouts this winter, totaling 13, and the use of nearly 1,600 tons of salt due to icy conditions. He emphasized safe snow removal practices and cautioned residents against attempting to pass snow plows.

The council also received updates on the city’s environmental initiatives, notably the East Lake carp removal program, which successfully removed over 9,600 pounds of carp with the help of a $300,000 grant. This effort contributed to a reduction of 70 to 75 pounds of phosphorus annually, improving water quality. Future plans include monitoring water quality improvements and exploring additional strategies for East Lake.

Additional environmental efforts included the city’s recycling initiatives, such as a pumpkin composting program that diverted over 3,000 pounds of pumpkins from landfills. Restoration projects, funded by approximately $400,000 in grants, focused on wetlands and upland grass restorations and managing invasive species on 108 acres across Lakeville. The landscaping for clean water program concluded with 12 participants and five projects, supported by grants from the soil and water conservation district.

In the realm of forestry, the department outlined plans for ash tree removal and park tree pruning, with 35 trees requiring contractor assistance for removal due to complexity. The annual tree sale program was also discussed, with plans to offer around 300 discounted trees and shrubs to residents in February.

The council addressed other matters on the consent agenda, like the designation of the Sun This Week newspaper as the legal newspaper for 2026 and an agreement with Flagship Recreational for playground equipment at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, supported by a $90,000 donation.

An ordinance amending Title 11 of the city code concerning auto repair businesses was also discussed, following an application from Caliber Collision for a conditional use permit for outdoor vehicle storage. The amendment clarified storage area requirements near residential properties to address setback issues. Caliber Collision plans for a fenced storage area, meeting all conditional use permit conditions and ensuring drainage compliance.