During the August 31, 2026, Open Forum meeting, members of the public had the opportunity to share their questions, concerns, and ideas during Open Forum. Below is a summary of the questions raised and the responses provided by City staff and leadership. This recap is intended to keep residents informed and to ensure that the issues raised by our community continue to receive the attention they deserve.
Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) / Flock Cameras
Question: What analysis has the City conducted to determine Flock’s contribution to crime clearance outcomes?
Answer: The Roswell Police Department (RPD) is conducting a historical case review to determine the level of objective impact ALPR technology has had on investigative outcomes. That process is ongoing; however, data since 2023 indicate that Flock ALPRs contributed to nearly 1,000 investigations handled by RPD, a number that is only expected to increase as the review progresses. In 2026 alone, Flock ALPRs have provided meaningful contributions to nearly 500 investigations to date.
Question: Will the City provide a public accounting of cost, measurable benefit, access, and auditing for the program? What is Roswell PD’s policy on requiring probable cause, warrant, or case number for ALPR searches, and how is misuse audited? Which outside agencies can access Roswell’s ALPR data via data-sharing networks, and what oversight exists?
Answer: The cost of the contract, expiring 12/10/2028, is $237,500 per year. Answers to additional questions about the cameras, their use, accountability, and more can be found in RPD’s FAQ below:
Question: Will the Council place the Flock program on a future agenda for dedicated public discussion, and hold a vote on continuing it?
Answer: This will be determined by the City Council. Currently, there are no plans to do so.
Question: Will the City consider imposing a moratorium on expanding the ALPR system (new cameras/data-sharing agreements) pending review?
Answer: This will be determined by the City Council. Currently, there are no plans to do so.
Grimes Bridge Road Transportation Project
Question: What is the timeline for the design revision and phased implementation of the project on Grimes Bridge Road? What is the overall timeline for completion and an outline of expectations?
Answer: The project schedule will be evaluated and adjusted once there is a determination on potential adjustments to the project scope.
Question: Will the City approve the residents’ recommended design changes (retaining walls instead of tree/canopy removal, added traffic calming, eliminating part of the multiuse trail on one side)?
Answer: City staff are currently aware of the recommended design changes proposed by a group of residents along the Grimes Bridge corridor and will be meeting with to determine potential adjustments to the project scope.
Question: Can the project move forward with less additional approval/process to speed things up?
Answer: No, this project must follow the City’s standard approval process for right-of-way acquisition, permitting, etc.
Tree Removal on Maple Street
Question: How and why were mature trees along Maple Street cut down without permission?
Answer: The applicant has provided a certified arborist’s report documenting that the condition of all seven trees exhibited decay, hazardous conditions, invasive species, or otherwise did not meet the City’s specimen tree criteria. Still, the applicant received a Notice of Violation for failing to obtain a permit and will receive a citation if not remedied by September 17, 2026.
Municipal Complex Sign
Question: Will the municipal complex sign at the corner of Hill Street and Hwy. 9 be replaced or modernized?
Answer: City staff is currently evaluating options and associated costs through the budget process for the potential replacement and modernization of the municipal complex sign at Hill Street and Highway 9.
Sharia Law/Religious Law
Question: What is Roswell’s position on Sharia Law?
Answer: The City of Roswell follows and upholds the laws of the United States of America, the State of Georgia, and the ordinances of the City of Roswell. Under the Establishment Clause in the United States Constitution, a city government may not endorse or support a specific religion.
