In line with an ongoing commitment to leveraging technology and digital tools to engage with citizens in innovative ways, the City of Pearland has been broadcasting during special events, ribbon cuttings and public meetings using the live-streaming smartphone application, Periscope. This method provides an avenue for residents to receive real-time information and a behind the scenes look at City services. The City aims to use digital platforms like Periscope in support of daily government operations to enhance citizen engagement.
“Digital platforms such as Periscope provide citizens with a front-row seat for our special events and, moving forward, we are looking to expand how we use similar technologies to better engage Pearland residents, businesses and stakeholders in the environment that is most convenient for them,” said Sparkle Anderson, Director of Communications.
Recently, City staff has taken to Periscope to host live Q & A sessions with City Manager, Clay Pearson, as well as broadcasting during recent ribbon cuttings. Over the next 2 months, the Communications Department will host weekly broadcasts on Periscope to showcase the services and operations of various City of Pearland departments. Look for the live broadcasts on Tuesday afternoons starting June 21. Broadcasts will continue through the summer and will end on August 9.
To tune in, download the free Periscope application to your Apple or Android device and “follow” The City of Pearland. From there, the platform will alert you in real-time when City staff is live streaming, along with a description of the meeting or event. Any videos that are streamed in real-time are also accessible for up to 24 hours on the app following the conclusion of the stream.