OUR OPINION: PUBLIC MEETINGS

Congratulations goes out to the Brainerd School Board for its decision to begin videotaping school board meetings for broadcast on area cable public access channels. The school board is taking this action on a trial basis. Final approval will be needed before the district authorizes the cost associated with the broadcasts.

The broadcasts will be repeated several times on channel 8 of both the Charter and Consolidated cable systems. Committee meetings will be broadcast on channel 15 of both cable systems. For those viewers who are interested the broadcasts of Monday's school board meeting will be aired at 6:30 p.m. Sunday and 6:30 a.m. Monday, among other times.

An increasing number of governmental units are airing their meetings in an effort to connect with as many citizens as possible. An informed public can provide suggestions and guidance to elected leaders. The school board broadcasts also could lead to more recognition and community support for worthwhile school activities. Everyone benefits when the public gains a better understanding of how elected officials' decisions are made.

We hope the Brainerd School Board decides to broadcast the meetings on a permanent basis. Teachers often preach that knowledge is power. The televising of school board meetings has the potential of empowering a great number of interested citizens.