County Commissioners Approve New Video Recording Policy for Public Meetings

Crook County is set to enhance transparency and public engagement following the approval of a new public meetings video and recording policy during the Board of Commissioners regular session on September 3, 2025. This policy, which aligns with the county's commitment to good governance, establishes clear guidelines for recording public meetings, ensuring they are accessible to all residents.

The policy mandates that major boards, committees, and subcommittees under the county's jurisdiction utilize Zoom or a compatible platform for meetings, with video recording as the primary method of documentation. In cases where video recording is not feasible due to emergencies, audio recordings will be accepted. Additionally, all recorded meetings must be made available on the county's website within five days, promoting greater access to governmental proceedings.

Commissioner Will expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort that went into finalizing the policy, noting that it aims to make government processes more understandable for the public. He highlighted the importance of having a uniform approach across various departments, especially for those that do not meet regularly.

To further support the implementation of this policy, a detailed workflow document has been developed to guide staff through the public meeting process, from notification to the completion of meeting minutes. This resource is expected to streamline operations and assist those less familiar with the procedures.

The commissioners acknowledged the potential challenges of technology failures during meetings, discussing best practices for ensuring continuity, such as having backup recording devices. While the policy does not legally require audio or video recordings, it emphasizes the importance of documenting meetings to maintain transparency.

As Crook County moves forward with this policy, residents can look forward to improved access to public meetings, fostering a more engaged and informed community.