Rochester to Host Town Hall on Advanced Policing Tech

Public event will showcase drone and camera technologies used by local police department.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Rochester Police Department and Mayor Kim Norton are hosting a public town hall meeting on March 3rd to discuss the use of advanced technologies like drones and surveillance cameras in local law enforcement. The 90-minute event will feature presentations, live demonstrations, and opportunities for audience questions as officials aim to increase transparency around these policing tools.

Why it matters

As police departments across the country adopt new surveillance and monitoring technologies, there are growing concerns around privacy, civil liberties, and the potential for abuse. This town hall represents an effort by Rochester officials to engage the community, address these concerns, and ensure the responsible use of these technologies.

The details

The town hall will take place at the Heintz Center Commons Area and is free and open to the public, though an RSVP is requested. Rochester Police Chief Jim Franklin stated that advanced technologies can enhance public safety, but also require strong oversight and accountability. The event will allow residents to learn more about how these tools are currently being used by the department.

  • The town hall is scheduled for 6 p.m. on March 3, 2026.
  • The 90-minute event will be held at the Heintz Center Commons Area.

The players

Kim Norton

The mayor of Rochester, Minnesota, who is hosting the town hall event along with the Rochester Police Department.

Jim Franklin

The police chief of Rochester, who stated that advanced technologies can enhance public safety but also require oversight.

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What they’re saying

“Technology continues to evolve, and it is important that our community understands how and why these tools are used. This town hall is an opportunity to share information, listen to concerns and ensure we are moving forward thoughtfully and transparently.”

— Kim Norton, Mayor of Rochester (postbulletin.com)

“Advanced technology can enhance public safety while also requiring strong oversight and accountability. We welcome the chance to demonstrate how these tools are used and to hear directly from residents.”

— Jim Franklin, Police Chief (postbulletin.com)

What’s next

The town hall event on March 3rd will be an opportunity for Rochester residents to learn more about the police department's use of drones and surveillance cameras, as well as provide feedback and raise concerns about these technologies.

The takeaway

As police departments increasingly adopt advanced monitoring and surveillance tools, transparent public engagement and oversight will be crucial to ensuring these technologies are used responsibly and in a way that balances public safety with civil liberties.