60 view first live council meeting
More than 60 people tuned in to watch Baw Baw Shire councillors when they went live last week.
Wednesday night’s meeting at Trafalgar was recorded and available through a live stream for the first time in council’s history.
Sixty-two people tuned into the link to watch the meeting, which was longer than usual at just under four hours and featured 20 community submissions on a proposal for The Ice Meltdown Project to use the former Athlone Primary School site.
Cr Danny Goss called for a report on options for live streaming council meetings earlier this year.
A report presented to council in August resulted in council committing to the move.
At the time Cr Goss said it would result in “more open government with 21st century technology.”
The $11,000 project set-up was welcomed by councillors as a means for increased transparency and an investment into a stronger and more collaborative community moving into the future.
Mayor Joe Gauci said he was pleased to see the initiative ready for action following months of planning and preparation.
“This is a really positive step towards increased transparency and interaction as we continue to break down the perceived barriers between council and our community.
“For those who have never attended a council meeting, this is a great opportunity to see the inner workings of council and learn more about the decision making process.
Cr Gauci said community members could now access council meetings from the ease and comfort of their own homes which is a great convenience, particularly for those who live in the further areas of the municipality.
Council meetings are being filmed from one camera, with the potential for this to be expanded in the future.
Community members making submissions to council have the option whether to be live streamed or not.
Following each council meeting, a link to the recording will be stored on council’s website for the community to readily access at any time.