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Santa Maria City Council to Consider Proposal to Upgrade Audiovisual Equipment
The Santa Maria City Council is set to review a proposal that aims to improve the audiovisual technology used in council chambers. According to an article from KEYT News, if approved, the new system could substantially enhance the quality of live streaming and transmission of meetings, as well as facilitate better interaction among council members, city staff, residents, and stakeholders both in-person and remotely.
The Need for an Upgrade
The proposed upgrade is necessary, as the current technology is 28 years old and has been expanded several times over the years to accommodate technological advancements and community requirements. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need to improve online streaming quality, as meetings were forced to shift to online formats. Since then, the format of meetings has returned to in-person, but the quality and reliability of online broadcasts have remained a concern for many community members, especially regarding audio transmission.
The Proposed Solution
The proposed solution involves the installation of state-of-the-art equipment that would replace the current outdated technology. Some of the new equipment would include new microphones and speakers, larger and more readable television screens, improved cabling, and a user-friendly control room, among others. The cost of the project would amount to $316,805.06, which would be funded by the American Rescue Plans Act.
Council Meeting Schedule and Live Broadcast
A meeting to review the proposal is scheduled for Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. Santa Maria City Council plans to broadcast the meeting live on its YouTube channel.
Conclusion
The proposal to upgrade the Santa Maria City Council’s audiovisual equipment, according to the source, is indeed a significant step towards better community engagement. The proposed solution aims to address current problems that have hindered efficient communication between council members, city staff, residents, and stakeholders. By improving the online streaming transmission quality, the proposed upgrade’s impact can reach a broader audience, enriching the community’s democratic practices.
