Last month, Annual Convention attendees were given a preview of a proposed television program, called “The County Seat” that highlights county issues in a TV news magazine format.

Produced by local TV veteran Chad Booth, the once-a-week, half-hour show will be pitched to local stations in Utah, to begin airing in January. Several pilot segments, some of which were shown at the Convention, have been completed.

“Without exception, the counties have repeatedly told us that lack of public awareness and education about county government is the biggest problem they face as elected officials,” said UAC Executive Director Brent Gardner. “In all my years with the Association, this is the best opportunity I have seen come along to proactively do something about that lack of awareness.”

However, in order to continue the production, county and private funding will have to enter the equation. The initial goal is the produce 13 episodes. Gardner hopes to fund that evenly among the counties and private sponsors.

Each episode will focus on two topics and, along with the TV broadcast, will also be placed on YouTube, UAC’s website, and be made available as a downloadable video podcast.

“No matter what time-slot we are able to obtain, the access to these discussions 24 hours a day and on-demand, over the Internet is a key factor in helping us share with citizens, legislators and others the county story,” said Gardner.

Gardner is meeting with potential sponsors in December and has sent a request to the counties for their share of the support. Officials or potential private industry sponsors who would like more information, including the opportunity to view a sample episode are directed to contact UAC at (801) 265-1331 or by e-mail at bgardner@uacnet.org.