Web Cameras Ready To Roll In Council Chambers

Hamilton City Council will broadcast its Council meeting via the internet for the first time this Thursday (29 September), following the installation of web cameras in the Chamber.

Three web cameras have been positioned in the Chamber (on the back wall behind the public gallery and on pillars on either side of the room) and have been tested in preparation for tomorrow’s meeting.

The cameras will be controlled by an independent operator and used to broadcast open parts of all ordinary Council meetings, excluding adjournments. Extraordinary Council and Committee meetings will not be broadcast at this time. The coverage will be able to be viewed on www.hamilton.co.nz, with the capability for viewers to search for a specific item of discussion.

Councillor Angela O’Leary, who has been a driving force behind this initiative, said the cameras will help make Council business more accessible, promote better sharing of information about the city, and enable Council to connect with residents in a more responsive and savvy way.

“This is a big step into the online world for Hamilton City Council, and having the ability to broadcast council meetings will give people the opportunity to engage with Council like never before,” she said.

Hamilton City Council is the third New Zealand council to adopt this technology after New Plymouth and Taupo.

Signage will be positioned outside the Council Chamber to inform those attending Council meetings when the web cameras are in operation.

ENDS

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