From Deseret News archives:
Recording meetings is healthy
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."
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.
Comments
- Pena nets career-high for Villanova 7:13 p.m.
- 'Lost' secrets should stay hidden 7:08 p.m.
- Browns place Lewis on IR 7:07 p.m.
- Transactions 6:45 p.m.
- W.V. man charged with sexual abuse 6:36 p.m.
- Artest says he drank during games 6:34 p.m.
- KRCL celebrates 30th birthday 6:14 p.m.
- Sporty gift ideas 6:07 p.m.
- Reactions to Tiger Woods saga 5:53 p.m.
- World Cup bid sets sales target of 5m 5:51 p.m.
- Why is Y. ignoring spew of hatred?
- Unbeaten BYU takes trip to Logan
- Mitchell compared to Ervil LeBaron
- BCS just keeps dirty laundry on spin
- Teen girl killed in Kaysville crash
- Utahns growing tired of Bennett
- 2 citations issued at Y.-U. game
- Orem pair getting a rep for crime
- MWC awaits bowl destinations
- Simple candies for the holidays
- Hall mouths off about hate of Utah
913 - Cougars beat Utes in overtime
483 - Hall reprimanded by MWC
404 - Max Hall issues apology
391 - Hall's pain reflects self-betrayal
358 - Utes won't respond to Hall
277 - BYU says Hall incident resolved
242 - Why is Y. ignoring spew of hatred?
224 - 2 citations issued at Y.-U. game
173 - Religion in politics is tiresome
154
First, a big thank you to all who posted questions here for me to ask...
RE: Re: NevadaCoug | 11:15 a.m. Dec. 2, 2009 I never said Hall should...
Angel Rinshi: "Thank You New York for not legalizing sin!!" It has nothing...
a number of "honor killings" in the United States by families who object to...
Remember how LeBron James stiffed an 18 year old waitress with a $10 tip...
I am sorry Josh for not being in a place where I could have reached you in...
Go ahead and satisfy your needs all you want. Just don't get married and...
Polling had shown that New York citizens support Same Gender Marriage. Those...
Umm there was def another bomb threat within the past 8 years, I don't know...
I've heard of bad losers but not bad winners. Talk about class! I only hope...
It's too bad. A man with a personal vendetta and a few people with mean...


You can be the first to comment on this story.