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Council agrees to pilot prerecorded video testimony for public hearings starting Nov. 18
Summary
Clerk and cable staff proposed allowing prerecorded video testimony for public-hearing items (three minutes, submitted by noon the day prior). Council agreed to pilot the feature for public hearings only and to treat videos as part of the public record; staff will produce guidance and a short tip sheet for submitters.
The City Clerk recommended adding a prerecorded video testimony option for public-hearing items to expand participation and reduce connectivity issues associated with live remote testimony. Under staff's proposal:
- Speakers would register and upload an MP4 (or accepted file type) via an online form by noon the day prior to the public hearing. - Video testimonies would be limited to three minutes and would be played during the meeting after in-person speakers. - The clerk's office and cable production staff would screen files for technical issues and confirm the submission is limited to the public-hearing topic; the video file and registration form would become part of the meeting record.
Staff recommended piloting the option for public hearings only, not for general public comment, to limit the duration of meetings and to keep a manageable queue. Council supported the pilot and asked staff to highlight that the program is a pilot, to provide tips for recording and submitting, and to return results after several meetings.
Ending
Staff will make the video-submission form available and accept video testimony beginning Nov. 18 for public hearings; the clerk's office and production staff will monitor usage and report back to council with metrics and recommendations after the trial period.
