Cities: Going virtual has its challenges

Virtual meetings for local governments can be a technical challenge and occasional disappointment

Frequent virtual meetings are a change brought by the coronavirus pandemic that’s likely to stick. Since March, residents who watch their city governments closely have taken a seat in front of their computers to join live meetings instead of attending in person at city hall.

But when technology fails, it’s frustrating to residents who consider their city council meetings regular viewing, said James Drinkard, Alpharetta assistant city administrator.

Alpharetta’s technology system for virtual meetings crashed before its Sept. 21 council meeting began, leaving viewers with no video to access when they searched. Drinkard said he received several emails during the meeting from people asking if it was taking place.