City launches ‘The Minutes’ podcast

The City of Thunder Bay launched its first podcast today, aiming to improve communication with the public, connect with the community and provide another way to share city information.

‘The Minutes’ will offer an in-depth look at the decisions made following each City Council meeting. The weekly show will be hosted by Jeff Walters, Communications Officer with the City and former CBC radio journalist. Listeners can expect a brief recap of the council meeting, and conversations with municipal leaders and staff.

Cities like Guelph, Ontario, and Whistler, B.C., are among some municipalities that are using their podcasts to offer more context on current issues, decisions, or upcoming initiatives. They also allow listeners to ‘meet’ the people who help run their municipalities.

“Podcasts are not intended to replace the way municipalities interact with local news media – instead, they’re a creative addition to a municipality’s existing communication platforms,” said Stacey Levanen, Supervisor – Corporate Communications & Community Engagement. “They’re an effective way to connect with residents who don’t read local newspapers or have a computer, and with those who may prefer to listen rather than read about their city.”

The Minutes is produced in-house and led by the City’s Corporate Communications & Community Engagement section. Episodes will be released every Wednesday following a scheduled Council meeting.

“As the media landscape changes, the public is looking for new ways to learn about city decisions that shape our community,” added Levanen. “This podcast will help the public have a clear understanding of the decisions that are made at City Council meetings in an easy-to-digest format.”

To listen to The Minutes anytime, download on any podcast app. Video versions with closed captioning will also be available on the City’s website, YouTube channel and facebook page. Learn more at: www.thunderbay.ca/theminutes

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