By: ROXANNE HILL | Staff writer for Alpine Avalanche
In response to interest from the public, Brewster County Commissioners Court meetings are now available to view online in video form.
Grants Administrator Julie Morton said Lubbock-based Guardian Security Solutions was chosen to provide the innovative service for the county, and installed a camera for video recording. She noted Guardian was a highly reputable firm that had installed security camera systems for courthouses and jails throughout Texas. Guardian was chosen based on a recommendation from Sheriff Ronny Dodson.
"This is the first time that we've been able to post the link successfully with video and audio," said Morton. A new link will be added after each meeting concludes.
County Judge Eleazar Cano was pleased with the new system, saying "The idea was transparency and accessibility. Basically, folks who can't attend can view and listen to the commissioners court meetings as they come up. They are archived for a month at a time."
Commissioners also expressed support for the videos. "I think it's great. I know it's hard for people to get to meetings, so I'm glad they are posting the video so anyone who is interested can view it," said Commissioner, Pct. 1, Betse Esparza.
Commissioner, Pct. 4, Mike Pallanez also voiced his support, saying, "People from out of town can now watch the proceedings.Transparency and accountability are what we are striving for."
Pct. 2 Commissioner Hugh Garrett noted, "Because we are the biggest county in Texas, this gives everyone a chance to know what goes on in commissioners court meetings, especially people in Marathon and Terlingua. Now they can see what's going on, and decide if they want to be further involved."
According to Garrett, citizens would ask why meetings were held during the day when fewer people could be involved.
"Judge Cano is trying to make commissioners court available to everybody. These videos make it absolutely available to anyone at anytime." said Garrett.
To view commissioners court videos, go to brewstercountytx.com. In the menu bar, click on "Commissioners Court." Then in the drop down menu, click on "Watch Latest Commissioners Court Meeting."