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Council opts to restore public call-in using Zoom audio-only; staff to launch in June
Summary
After the vendor discontinued the prior call-in service the council directed staff to implement an audio-only Zoom call-in option for public comment, with staff moderation and further evaluation of queuing options.
City staff recommended restoring remote public comment by offering an audio-only Zoom call-in option, and council agreed to try the approach while staff continues to evaluate longer-term vendor alternatives.
Deputy city and county manager Casey summarized three options staff evaluated after the previous vendor discontinued call-in service: (1) an audio-only Zoom webinar option with no additional vendor cost and existing staff expertise; (2) a third-party service (Wireside) that would provide vendor-supported call-in and queuing at a cost staff estimated at roughly $85 per hour plus a per-minute fee; and (3) a product called AgendaLink that staff judged unsuitable for interactive public comment.
Casey recommended the Zoom approach as the quickest, lowest-cost option that could be active within a few weeks. Jake Donnelly of IT clarified the audio-only setup would allow callers to dial a phone number and enter a meeting ID; staff can mask caller numbers on screen and can moderate or mute callers who exceed time limits or are disruptive. Council members asked about queueing when multiple commenters call in; staff said the Zoom webinar “waiting room” and hand-raise functions would be used and that the city would refine procedures over time.
Council informally agreed to proceed with the Zoom option and asked staff to prepare communications and instructions for residents; staff said it aimed to have the call-in option available around June 10. No formal ordinance or procurement action was required that evening; staff will monitor usage and may return with alternative procurement or vendor recommendations if the need for enhanced queuing or additional services grows.
