I believe that a large part of the reason local people are disenfranchised with local democracy is because they perceive it as being conducted behind closed doors. The decisions that affect our daily lives are made in spaces that are often inaccessible to many, both physically and economically. Streaming and archiving the public meetings of the Teignmouth Town Council would open these spaces to all, not only providing full transparency but also drastically improving accessibility for every resident.

In the digital age we live in, virtual attendance is not only possible but practical. Many of our neighbouring councils have already taken steps in this direction, embracing technology to ensure that their proceedings are open to all interested citizens. By implementing livestreaming and archiving, Teignmouth Town Council can take an essential step forward in closing the gap between council decisions and the community it serves.

It's not just about making meetings accessible; it's about empowering residents to engage actively with their local government. When people feel truly informed and confident that they have insight into the decision-making process, trust in our governing institutions improves. This trust translates into higher civic engagement rates, as residents will feel more motivated to participate, voice their opinions, and contribute to the community growth positively.

Moreover, archived recordings allow for those who cannot attend live sessions to catch up on discussions and decisions at their convenience. This ensures inclusiveness and prevents any resident from feeling left out due to time constraints or other personal responsibilities.

In light of these benefits, we request Teignmouth Town Council to begin livestreaming and archiving all public meetings as a matter of priority. Let us take steps towards enhancing democratic engagement, transparency, and accessibility in our wonderful town. Please sign this petition to show your support for a more open and connected community.