Santa Maria enhances meeting access with online streaming and closed captioning services

In a recent effort to enhance community engagement and accessibility, the City of Santa Maria has expanded its options for residents to participate in City Council and Planning Commission meetings. These meetings, held on the first and third Tuesdays and Wednesdays of each month at 5:30 PM, can now be accessed online through various platforms, including live streaming on the city’s website and YouTube channel.

Residents can view the meetings live on cable channel 23 or through the city’s meeting portal at cityofsantamaria.org. For those unable to attend in person, remote participation via Zoom is also available, with links provided in the meeting agendas. This initiative aims to ensure that all community members can stay informed and involved in local governance.

A significant addition to the meeting broadcasts is the introduction of closed captioning in both English and Spanish. This feature is designed to improve accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments and Spanish-speaking residents. Closed captions are available live during the meetings and for regular replays throughout the week, reflecting the city’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.

The meetings are not only broadcast live but are also replayed on alternate Tuesday and Wednesday nights, with additional morning replays on Thursdays and Fridays. This comprehensive approach to broadcasting city meetings underscores Santa Maria's dedication to keeping its residents informed and engaged in local affairs.

For more information on accessing these meetings, residents are encouraged to visit cityofsantamaria.org, where they can find the meeting portal, agendas, and additional resources related to city governance.