The Haines Borough Assembly chambers is getting a facelift, including a designated microphone for audience members wishing to address the assembly.
The first phase of technical upgrades for the chambers includes new microphones, two wall-mounted speakers in the chambers and one in the entryway for when there is overflow, electrical outlets on the dais, and a rack-mounted sound board and recorder behind the clerk’s chair at the dais.
Manager David Sosa said the upgrades will cost $15,000.
“The new system will greatly increase the sound quality of recordings, which supports the borough’s goal of providing clear and precise information to the public,” Sosa said.
The upgrades will also allow people to access meeting recordings online and quickly home in on their issue of choice.
“The new system will allow staff to bookmark each agenda item so that when the audio is posted on the website, members of the public can go straight to their item of interest,” Sosa said.
The upgrades are expected to be complete by Aug 1.
The second phase of improvements includes setting up video recording and conferencing equipment, though that will require additional funding, Sosa said.