The Ellensburg City Council held a study session on September 2, 2025, focusing on the potential recording of board and commission meetings. City Attorney Chris Horner led the discussion, outlining the costs and considerations involved in implementing such a system.

Currently, only city council meetings are recorded, with a contract in place with ECTV for live streaming and recording. The session highlighted the need for a more structured approach to recording other public meetings, which presently are not documented, except for public hearings when necessary. The council is considering recording between 156 to 192 additional meetings annually, depending on the frequency of board and commission gatherings.

Key considerations discussed included the technology required for recording, such as software licensing for virtual public comments, and the desired production quality of the recordings. The council noted that while free platforms like Zoom exist, they may not adequately manage public participation without a paid license. The quality of recordings could range from simple audio to more complex setups involving multiple cameras.

Horner also mentioned the legal framework surrounding public meeting recordings, referencing the Open Public Meetings Act and records retention laws. While there is no current requirement for boards and commissions to record their meetings, the act encourages it, and any recordings made must be retained for a minimum of six months and then archived for six years.

The session concluded with a commitment to further explore the implications of recording these meetings, including the potential benefits for transparency and public engagement. The council aims to ensure that any new system aligns with legal requirements while enhancing accessibility for the community.