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Mercer County approves $46,000‑range audio‑visual upgrade to enable livestreaming
Summary
The commission voted to accept Blue Hawk Audio Video’s proposal to upgrade boardroom audio‑visual equipment (installation targeted for 2026), funding drawn from a $70,000 building‑improvements line already allocated in the 2026 budget.
Mercer County commissioners voted to accept a multi‑component audio‑visual proposal from Blue Hawk Audio Video to upgrade the boardroom’s sound, display and livestreaming capabilities, approving the project for installation in 2026.
Speaker 5 presented two bids: a lower‑cost quote from Blue Hawk that reuses some existing wiring and microphones after an on‑site walk‑through, and a higher‑cost bid from Dakota Sound System proposing a full replacement. Speaker 5 said Blue Hawk’s approach would reuse top‑quality microphones and reduce wiring replacement costs; the vendor also offered to simplify camera and screen switching to make remote participation easier.
Commission documents show $70,000 budgeted in the building‑improvements line for 2026, with $50,000 originally set aside for audio‑visual upgrades and $20,000 for bathroom work. Speaker 5 estimated the Blue Hawk portion would come from that $50,000 allocation and indicated staff (Carmen) would need to set up a streaming platform and a dedicated computer for live broadcasts.
During discussion commissioners asked about the large price differential between quotes; speakers explained Blue Hawk planned to reuse existing Cat‑6 infrastructure where feasible while the other vendor proposed replacing all wiring. The commission moved and seconded a motion to accept Blue Hawk’s proposal for the 2026 installation; the motion carried by roll call.
Why it matters: the upgrade will allow live streaming and better remote participation in commission meetings and other county events, increasing public access and improving the technical quality of county recordings.
Next steps: staff will finalize contract details with Blue Hawk, coordinate scheduling for installation in 2026 and set up a streaming workflow with Carmen and IT staff.
