No Cameras: ACLU Launches Petition Against Video Surveillance in Woodinville

Woodinville city officials have asked residents to weigh in during the month of March on the idea to use video cameras on public streets and parks to improve public safety. The city is encouraging residents to take an online survey on the issue.

Now, a petition has been started by the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington urging the Woodinvile City Council to reject the idea, saying the city can set an example for the state by protecting the privacy of its residents and visitors.

A portion of the petition states:

"Cameras do not prevent crimes and can violate the privacy of people living and working in the community and those who visit. Woodinville's elected leaders can provide leadership for the rest of the state by acting to protect privacy. Ask the Woodinville City Council to reject surveillance cameras."

Will you sign the petition? Can Woodinville set an example on video camera use around the state of Washington? Tell us in comments.

City officials have said the cameras would be used to help in crime investigation and would not be used to issue traffic citations. Specifics as to locations and the number of cameras that would be used have not been developed.

The City is requesting input through the end of March, when the survey results will be presented to Woodinville City Council. A previous Patch story on the topic generated nearly 38 comments, both for and against the idea.

To see the ACLU petition, click here.

To take the city's video surveillance camera survey, click here.

Previous coverage:

Video Surveillance: City of Woodinville Seeks Your Opinion