Rule 2.12.208 - LOCAL GOVERNMENT PUBLIC MEETING RECORDINGS(1) This rule implements 2-3-214, MCA, by providing guidance for creating, storing, and publishing audio and video recordings of local government public meetings.(2) This rule provides technical advice but is not binding on local government entities. It is not legal advice. Whether meetings should be public meetings or should be recorded are considerations beyond the scope of this rule. Local government entities should consult 2-3-214, MCA, for more information about how and when meetings should be recorded.(3) How should we record video during a meeting?(a) To record video, you will need cameras. Ensure the camera setup adequately covers the governing body and persons communicating with the body. Cameras should have a minimum resolution of 720 pixels (HD) and a minimum frame rate of 30 frames per second (fps) for smooth video.(4) What about recording content or presentations from a computer during a meeting? (a) You can record content from a computer by using an application or process that records what is displayed on the computer screen. The recommended minimum resolution for this content is 720 pixels, and the frame rate should be at least 15 fps.(5) What format should we use for recording and video-on-demand?(a) When recording meetings, save video in MP4 format and audio in MP3 format. This will make it easier to share and view the recordings.(6) What should we consider regarding a room's acoustics?(a) Think about how sound behaves in the room. Here are some considerations: (i) The ambient or background noise level in the room should be less than 30 decibels (dB) to avoid interference.(ii) Common issues in noisy rooms are echoes and hollow-sounding audio caused by solid surfaces, high ceilings, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) noise, and electronic noise.(iii) To improve acoustics, you can use acoustic-absorbing soundboards, curtains, ceiling tiles, and unidirectional microphones.(7) Where should we store recordings? (a) The official copy of the recordings should be saved in a cloud environment maintained by your organization and accessible by more than one person.NEW, 2024 MAR p. 1574, Eff. 7/6/2024AUTH: 2-17-518, MCA; IMP: 2-3-214, MCA