The Town of Elk Point has decided not to livestream its council meetings.

At the March 25 meeting, Council tested a camera that could be used to livestream regular meetings. While councilors were impressed with the quality of the recordings, at the April 8 meeting they defeated a motion to invest in a camera at this time.

Councillor Terri Hampson had promoted the camera as a way to further engage the public, informing council that Morinville and Vermilion are nearby municipalities that livestream. She felt that the camera would show, “that after 8 hours of working [our day jobs] we’re still committed to the town.”

Deputy mayor Debra McQuinn mentioned that Smoky Lake has given up livestreaming. McQuinn describes Smoky Lake as “a very progressive and active community,” but says there is no interest in watching council meetings. She added, “I don’t want to spend on this for four or five watchers.”

Councillor Dwayne Yaremkevich observed that residents are always welcome to attend meetings in person if they are curious about local politics, but he noted that there is never a gallery.

Councillor Tim Smereka moved to purchase a camera, but in a recorded vote the motion was defeated. Councillors Smereka and Hampson voting in favour and councillors McQuinn and Yaremkevich, as well as mayor Young opposed.