San Diego’s arts budget is being slashed from $12 million last year to $0, despite the fact that arts funding creates jobs, boosts the economy, and fosters community.

The city plans to spend $3 million on Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs), which are primarily used to retrieve stolen vehicles and rarely aid in criminal investigations. They were notably ineffective in tracking terrorists last week as they drove to the Islamic Center. Determined criminals know how to easily remove/replace license plates. 

Instead of ALPRs, the city could invest in a low-tech solution that promotes its art community and serves as a model for other cities. Commissioning a simple, attractive sticker for drivers to display on their cars could alert potential thieves that their vehicles are equipped with an Apple AirTag that allows owners and law enforcement to track them.

This ‘art’ would save money, addresses privacy concerns, and potentially generates funds for the city.

Consider prioritizing creative solutions and the local individuals who can implement them over oppressive and harmful out-of-state technologies.