To the Editor:

In an effort to bring more transparency to the legislative process, I proposed a resolution that would mandate the video taping of the Albany County Legislature’s committee meetings. My proposal also makes these tapes available online for the public to view.

Although it took several months, I was very pleased to have colleagues on both sides of the political aisle support this initiative; it was then passed at the Dec. 7 meeting of the full Albany County Legislature.

Committee meetings, which are held once a month, occur before local laws and resolutions are sent to the full legislative body for deliberation.  Proposals are vetted at these meetings and debate and questioning occurs.

There are over 10 standing and special committees of the Albany County Legislature where proposals and local laws are assessed. I am hopeful that our residents take advantage of watching some of these tapes so they can follow proposals through legislative committees and watch their Albany County government in action.

Travis Stevens

Knox

Editor’s note: Travis Stevens represents District 31 in the Albany County Legislature