Is webstreaming public meetings worth the effort? In 2007, the Port of Tacoma discussed the idea of televising and webstreaming its public Commission meetings. I had the staff lead in researching the issue, and developing options and recommendations. In December 2007, the Port Commission approved the project. The Port started webstreaming its meetings on March 20, 2008. This presentation highlights some of the issues, and lessons learned.

1. Port Commission Meetings: TV or Not TV? Rod Koon Director, Communications Port of Tacoma

2. The issue IS NOT about Meetings and TV

3. The issue IS ABOUT Transparency and Communication Technology

4. Some Media Clips to highlight the evolution of the issue at the Port of Tacoma

16. TNT Online Poll-- September 2007 A citizens group is calling for the Port of Tacoma to televise its meetings. Should the port broadcast its meetings on TV?

17. TNT online poll results 80 % 20 %

18. The TNT has a readership of more than 120,000 How many people voted in the online poll?

19. A total of 81 votes were cast. 65 16

21. October 25, 2007: Port Commission Study Session

26. December 20, 2007: Commission Vote

36. Do you get more viewers than Dancing with the Stars?

40. Numbers from our Port Website

42. Did the tone of meetings change?

43. Do more people show up at your meetings just to be on TV?

44. Do people grandstand for TV ?

45. And the AAPA Survey Says... A total of 15 PR Port professionals responded… …many are in THIS ROOM!!

63. Port Commission Meetings: TV or Not TV? Rod Koon Director, Communications Port of Tacoma

64. [email_address] 253-383-9462 Rod Koon Director of Communications Port of Tacoma Questions? Comments? Please Contact: