Hanna town council discussed replacing outdated streaming equipment t their Sept. 10 regular meeting.
Concerns were raised about the substandard quality of councils live-streaming equipment, particularly the audio.
It was expressed that in recent meetings the equipment has malfunctioned several times with sound issues, including muffled audio, reduced volume and at times, complete audio dropouts. This has made certain portions of the meeting difficult, if not impossible, for viewers to understand.
It was noted that several months ago, council considered a proposal to renovate the council chambers with a custom table configuration, but decided against it due to cost, believing the current setup was sufficient.
The current equipment was purchased to improve meeting accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic and due to its age is in need of repair or replacement.
Laurie Armstrong, Director of Business and Communication presented the council with three options: stop live streaming, upgrade existing equipment or full refresh of council chambers and new audio/visual equipment.
It was noted that there is $20,000 allocated in the budget for these improvements.
Armstrong noted that each stream typically has around 25 people watching it live and 100 to 160 people who view it at a later date.
“Is live streaming important to our residents?” wondered Coun. Sandra Beaudoin with council agreeing that it would be missed.
Council directed Armstrong to consult with other municipalities regarding their audio and video setup to see if a suitable solution for the Town of Hanna could be found.
New CAO
Council welcomed the new Chief Administrative Operator (CAO) Matthew Norburn. Norbun noted that over the past week he has had the opportunity to engage with staff, attend key meetings, and familiarize himself with the ongoing projects and partnerships vital to the Town’s progress.
Unfit rental properties
During a public hearing, residents of Hanna raised concerns about rental properties they believe were unfit for habitation, calling the situation unacceptable.
“It’s disgusting what landlords are getting away with,” said one resident “They are collecting rent for properties unfit for people to live in.”
The resident noted that when they brought up concerns to various agencies, such as the RCMP, public health and the fire department, each agency deflected responsibility.
They wondered who they could go to to make sure people in the community were safe.
Another resident voiced frustration about the town’s drug problem, which they felt was exacerbated by the deteriorating state of some rental accommodations, describing having drug users enter their home, squatting on their property, and sleeping in vehicles.
Mayor Povaschuk reiterated that as discussed in the last council meeting, residents should call the RCMP when they witness such events.
Povaschuk also noted that the council does not have the legal right to do anything about privately-owned property, however the council would be able to help if a building was not up to code.
“Our hands are tied,” said Coun. Sandra Murphy.
Cheryl Bowman
Multimedia reporter
ECA Review
