Recording meetings is healthy

It's not too surprising that some public officials might be skittish about recording every word they utter during public meetings. Then, there's no denying that a public official swore, used a racial epithet or said anything else that could be construed as inappropriate or even slanderous.

But the flip side to accurate and complete recordings of proceedings is that elected officials have an opportunity to let the tape speak for itself on those occasions they believe their words have been misquoted, taken out of context or otherwise misconstrued for political reasons.

That's why there is considerable merit to HB16, sponsored by Rep. Glenn Donnelson, R-North Ogden. It would require some kind of recording of public meetings. It's a requirement that's long overdue. Earlier this week, the Utah House of Representatives passed HB16 by a vote of 46-26. The Senate should likewise approve it.

If senators need to be convinced of the need for full and accurate recordings of public meetings, they need only to consult with Donnelson, who said he has been misquoted in "cryptic" hand-written minutes of meetings. Other lawmakers such as Rep. Dave Hogue, R-Riverton, said one Riverton City Council member had edited the minutes of official meetings, changing statements to reflect "what the speaker really meant to say."

The pain of public service — and for that matter, publishing a newspaper — is that one's actions and one's account of public proceedings are there for all to see. The good, the bad and the ugly.

Those who are concerned about misspeaking, swearing or using offensive language should choose their words more carefully. Seemingly, if all involved were aware that the tape was rolling, they might conduct themselves in a more thoughtful manner. That's a good virtue.

Credit Donnelson for seeking an accurate and complete record of public proceedings, be it a special service district or the Utah Legislature. As the House vote for HB16 suggests, lawmakers — perhaps better than anyone — appreciate the need for accurate records of governmental proceedings.