The decision on the use of FLOCK camera systems in Bartlesville may go to the voters.

During a nearly three hour special workshop meeting, the Bartlesville City Council discussed the pros and cons of the automated license plate reader cameras. The system has been installed in 10 different locations within Bartlesville city limits. The discussion focused on if the cameras were either legal or ethical. City Attorney Jess Kane says there is pending litigation that may rule on the legality of license plate reader cameras, but as of yet, no decision would impact the use of the cameras in Bartlesville.

Ward 1 Councilor Tim Sherrick made a suggestion to let the citizens decide. Kane and City Manager Mike Bailey say it would come down to either an initiative petition, which would require 20% of the electorate in Bartlesville to sign for it to be put on the ballot, or it could also be done via an ordinance that would be referred to a public vote. No decision was made during the workshop.