Central Coast Council is the latest local government authority to “open up democracy” by holding its first ever live webcast of a council meeting.
Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said more members of the community would be able to see democracy in action and hopefully understand better how decisions are made. “We don’t know how many may want to watch each meeting, but the fact that they can, without having to be physically in the Chamber is a great outcome. Council is undertaking a six month trial of live webcasting. The fi rst webcast of a meeting was only made available live and was then taken off the youtube channel.
Additionally, speakers making presentations could not be heard. A statement from Council confirmed: “We are looking at the legal implications and pros and cons of keeping it for post-meeting viewing as part of the review”. Currently, journalists at council meetings are not allowed to record the meeting or take photographs, and council will need to review that ruling as well.
Media release, Oct 26, 2016 Central Coast Council media