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Select Board keeps existing video practice after debate over live broadcasts
Summary
After a lengthy discussion about live streaming and recorded video of town board meetings, the Select Board decided not to adopt a new written policy and to continue recording when the volunteer video committee can staff coverage; the board encouraged wider staffing and use of franchise fee funds for additional videographers.
The Select Board discussed whether to adopt a written policy governing live broadcasts and recorded videos of town board and commission meetings. The debate touched on public access, civic participation and privacy expectations.
Supporters of broader recording noted that recorded meetings expand access for residents who cannot attend in person (participants cited YouTube viewership numbers in the dozens to low hundreds for some meetings). Opponents argued that visible cameras may inhibit in‑person participation, citing at least one instance where a board member left a meeting because of recording. Legal guidance referenced RSA 91‑A, which authorizes recording of municipal meetings but does not require the town to broadcast recordings.
Ron, the town’s principal video volunteer, told the board he would "come film it" and said the practical constraint has been limited volunteer capacity rather than policy. Board members agreed that, in practice, the town will continue to record and broadcast meetings when the volunteer video committee or other staffing is available; they also encouraged recruiting additional videographers and exploring use of franchise fee funds to pay stipends or additional coverage.
No formal policy or ordinance was adopted at the meeting. The board asked staff to confirm the town’s existing signage and to continue posting notices that meetings may be recorded. Members said that if individual committee members object to recording, participants can leave or the chair can proceed under meeting rules, but the town will not broadly restrict recording because members of the public may lawfully record open meetings.
What’s next: The video committee will attempt to expand staffing and the board will consider funding additional coverage from franchise fees; staff will also confirm notice signage for recorded meetings.
