Environmental Quality Council asks for small increases for hearing officers and camera upgrades

Kelly Doran, executive officer of the Environmental Quality Council, told the Joint Appropriations Committee that the council operates with two full‑time staff and relies on a lean budget to conduct rulemaking and contested case hearings. The council asked for three modest exception requests: database maintenance and programmer time tied to a rebuilt electronic docketing system ($4,342), funds for up to two referrals to third‑party hearing officers for complex cases ($20,000), and active speaker‑tracking cameras ($9,228) to improve remote participation and create a more accurate record for transcription.

Doran said the council’s new electronic docketing system went into production in June 2025 and that ETS provides maintenance and programmer services. The active‑tracking cameras would switch views to the active speaker and make remote proceedings clearer for participants and the public.

Why it matters: the EQC handles contested cases and rulemaking that affect DEQ permits and regulated entities; the added funds are aimed at preserving hearing quality and record accuracy while the council continues to meet around the state.

What's next: Committee members asked about use of existing equipment in local facilities; Doran said the council already uses state and local chambers when possible but needs portable capability for rural hearings.