By Ewen McRae
Moorabool council will not video stream council meetings after a proposal to explore the idea was voted down at last week’s meeting.
The council received a report detailing a number of options for video streaming, including internal and external recording teams, Facebook or YouTube live streaming or continuing with the current arrangements of just audio recording meetings.
In favour of introducing video streaming, Cr Jarrod Bingham said it would help make the council more open to the public.
“Due to the rising cost of living, we are seeing a number of residents working longer hours, which may hinder them from attending council meetings,” he said.
“In this day and age of busy lifestyles, I see this as a great way forward for accessibility.”
But concerns voiced by Cr Tom Sullivan and others over what could be broadcast ultimately led to the motion being defeated.
“I think the downside ultimately outweighs the positives in my view,” Cr Sullivan said.
“We have guests and residents come and present. And we’ve had it happen in the past where people may say inappropriate things in the council chamber, and if that were picked up by a video camera it could have a severe adverse effect.
“We have a broader role with providing good governance, not just good theatre.”
