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Ben Hill County reviews $26,000 courtroom camera system to enable remote hearings
Summary
County Manager Michael Dinnerman told the commissioners that Judge Chasteen proposes installing a courtroom camera system and software to stream hearings on YouTube, allow defendants to appear from jail and families to attend remotely, and reduce prisoner transport costs; estimated cost is $26,000 and Judge Chasteen has offered to share the expense.
County Manager Michael Dinnerman told the Ben Hill County Commissioners at their Aug. 26 workshop that Judge Chasteen has requested a courtroom camera system and software to allow live streaming of court proceedings and remote participation.
Dinnerman described the system’s intended uses: live streaming on YouTube, defendants appearing from the jail, and families attending virtually by phone or computer. He said the system would reduce costs and logistics associated with transporting inmates to and from the courthouse.
Dinnerman reported that "the estimated cost is $26,000 and we have the funds available to contribute," and that Judge Chasteen is willing to share in the cost. The transcript does not record a formal commissioner vote or approval at the workshop; it records only that the estimated cost was presented and that funds are available.
No timetable or procurement steps were provided in the workshop transcript. Commissioners were informed of the proposal; any formal purchase, budget amendment or procurement action would require subsequent county staff follow up and formal approval.
