Push for Council Meetings on Web

A Vernon councilor wants to give the public more access to city council meetings.

Scott Anderson would like to see the meetings recorded, and posted on the city’s website.

“I think there’s a demand. I think it’s a small demand, but I do think it’s an obligation of the city in a furtherance of democracy to make council meetings accessible.”

Anderson says the web casts would serve people who can’t get out to council meetings in person.

“There’s all sorts of reasons to make it public, one of which is simply the public record. If nothing else, there is also the historic record.”

Mayor Akbal Mund doesn’t see a need for it, saying it will add to costs.

“The minutes are already on there after meetings are done so it’s not like you don’t get the information. You guys do a great job in the media picking up everything, so I don’t see how the general public doesn’t pick up on that.”

He says people wanting details can also watch the Shaw TV broadcasts, or follow local media coverage.

Anderson has asked city administration for a report into the idea.