By-Line: Brittany Kershaw, Director of Communications & Marketing Palm Coast Government
The City of Palm Coast is making significant technology upgrades to enhance the experience of residents, staff, and council members who participate in public meetings and workshops. These improvements, centered in the Jon Netts Community Wing at City Hall, are part of a capital improvement project designed to modernize outdated equipment and improve public accessibility—both in-person and online.
The current audio/visual system is over a decade old and no longer meets the needs of today’s more sophisticated hybrid meeting formats. These upgrades will strengthen the City’s capabilities in video conferencing, live streaming, and assistive listening, ensuring that City Council meetings and workshops remain transparent and accessible.
Key highlights of the project include:
- Enhanced Virtual and Hybrid Meeting Support: Upgraded video conferencing tools and integrated platforms will support seamless virtual participation and improved live streaming for residents watching from home.
- New Assistive Listening Technology: Installation of a Listen Technologies system with Dante, hearing aid, and smartphone integration to improve accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments.
- Microphone and Audio Processing Upgrades: To enhance audio clarity, podium microphones will be replaced, and wireless desktop gooseneck microphones with independent outputs for both in-room and online use will be installed.
- New HD Cameras: High-definition PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras will provide improved visual coverage of council meetings from multiple angles.
- Control Room Enhancements: Equipment relocation and updates to the system’s control programming will allow for more efficient operation and better integration with presentation systems.
- Workshop and Local Conferencing Area Improvements: Additions such as smart soundbars, conferencing cameras, and wireless presentation devices will support small group meetings and internal collaboration.
- Overflow Room Upgrades: Improved audio and video feeds from the main chambers will allow residents in overflow areas to follow meetings in real-time.
In addition to the audio/visual upgrades, the City is also implementing a new agenda management software platform to streamline the preparation and distribution of public meeting materials. This modern system will feature:
- Improved Workflow Efficiency: Automating processes that were previously manual, saving time and resources.
- Enhanced ADA Accessibility: Improved readability and compatibility with screen readers and other assistive devices.
- Greater Transparency: Easier public access to agendas, meeting materials, and action items, all in a user-friendly format.
The City of Palm Coast is actively evaluating additional areas in need of technology improvements across its facilities. One key focus is addressing the inconsistent Wi-Fi connectivity at the Palm Coast Community Center to better support both staff and residents during public events and programs. The City also acknowledges recent audio issues experienced during the live-stream of the State of the City event and is working to enhance the quality and reliability of future broadcasts.
“We are committed to making City government more accessible and engaging for our residents,” said Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. “These upgrades reflect our dedication to using smart technology to connect with the community in meaningful ways.”
The audio/visual and software improvements are expected to be completed by late summer. Residents will continue to be informed about progress as the City of Palm Coast advances these important upgrades.
