Jackson residents are enjoying enhanced audio and video quality during City Council broadcasts thanks to a big technology upgrade to the City Council Chambers. The recently completed improvement was accomplished through a partnership between the City and JTV, the Jackson County-focused television station, media outlet and digital agency.
In a project that spanned several months, JTV technicians replaced outdated camera and audio equipment in the City Council Chambers with new equipment for improved broadcasts. The new technology also allows easier streaming to the City’s website and Facebook page. Three digital TV monitors have been installed in the Chambers for presentations, replacing an outdated projector.
The previous technology was nearly 20 years old and prone to malfunction. City Public Information Officer Aaron Dimick says the COVID-19 pandemic inspired the upgrade project. “A new dependence on live streams and virtual meetings made us realize the importance of having up-to-date technology for residents to see the work of the City,” Dimick said. “When you look at the new City Seal and broadcast equipment, there’s a fresh energy in our City Council Chambers that helps us look to the future. We thank JTV for their hard work in completing this project.”
JTV currently provides broadcast services for City meetings. Bart Hawley, JTV President, says “We were excited to partner with the City of Jackson on this project and appreciate the City’s commitment toward the improvements. Going through an HD conversion and studio re-build at JTV recently gave our team the experience to upgrade the City Council Chambers to state of the art.”
Residents can watch City Council meetings on Comcast Cable Channel 21, the City website and the City Facebook page. The next meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m.