By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
A recent discussion about the physical location of Whitewater’s Community Development Authority meetings sparked a more widespread look at streaming technology in a move proponents touted as promoting open, transparent government.
The CDA, a quasi-independent governing body, takes up a range of issues within the city, including programs and policies designed to retain and bring in new commercial and industrial tenants.
At the most recent board of directors meeting June 27, several CDA appointees discussed the pros and cons of meeting at the Innovation Center, which has been the venue of choice since the facility began operations.
Several officials on the CDA board, including council member James Allen, have pointed out in recent months the group historically has met outside city hall in a maneuver aimed at ensuring would-be developers’ proposals are being reviewed in confidence.
But the insulation from city hall has provided technical challenges, including an inability to broadcast the meetings live on the city’s Whitewater Community TV channel. The CDA meetings, however, are streamed on a delayed basis and can be accessed through the city’s website.
City Manager Cameron Clapper said live broadcasts of CDA proceedings have been a proposal that has bubbled to the surface in the past.
“The challenge in the past always has been the cable station,” Clapper said, pointing out equipment for the live broadcasts is within city hall.
At this point, CDA board member Greg Meyer said he believes it is important to explore the issue again, because he has fielded inquiries from several people who would like to watch the group’s proceedings in real time.
“They want the same transparency that the other meetings get — that’s all they’re looking for,” Meyers said.
Others suggested a bigger picture overhaul because Whitewater Community TV currently is limited to cable subscribers. Online streaming, such as Facebook Live, was discussed as a possibility.
“The fact we don’t stream any of our meetings live is ridiculous,” said Council President Patrick Singer, who sits on the CDA.
