2026-08-13 - City Council
Summary
Built from the official minutes.
- Regular meeting 6:00 PM; all seven members present (Vice Mayor Encinas and Councilmember Harris attending virtually), Mayor Hartke presiding.
- Large routine consent agenda passed unanimously.
- Utility Rate Increase: Notice of Intention to Increase water, wastewater, reclaimed water, and solid waste rates; public hearing set for October 15, 2026. Public comment from resident Joseph Rack opposed to increase so soon after 7% increase effective January 2026. Mayor emphasized importance of publishing and publicizing public hearings for fee increases.
- Automated License Plate Reader Surveillance: City Manager John Pombier announced discontinuation of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology contract with Flock. After reviewing information from Flock, questions from Council and residents, and surrounding circumstances, city determined additional policies and safeguards needed. All Flock cameras turned off; city employees no longer have access to cameras or data. City's agreement for second set of 26 cameras paid through March but not cancelled; city will consult with City Attorney and Flock regarding contractual and financial matters. Cameras physically removed by Flock as quickly as possible. Mayor clarified no active ALPR contract being considered; future Council could reconsider after reviewing policies, safeguards, and contract terms (current Council cannot prevent future Council from reconsidering).
- Public comment on ALPR: multiple speakers opposed to ALPR use in Chandler, requested ban; speakers concerned about misuse, privacy, data retention; request for clear policies before any future consideration.
- Public comment on other issues: concerns raised about micro trenching project safety (improper backfill procedures affecting road infrastructure), water main breaks at same location (three in three years), city failure to complete geotechnical report and properly address claims.
Automated License Plate Reader Surveillance
- Discontinuation announced due to concerns about surveillance, privacy, data safeguards, and circumstances surrounding pilot program.
- All cameras turned off; no city employee access.
- Future consideration of ALPR technology would require new policies, safeguards, and sufficient information for Council to make informed decision.