Live Streaming Events: A How-To for Public Agencies

Live streaming is now a core communication tool for public agencies. Whether you're hosting a press conference, town hall, or emergency briefing, streaming lets you reach the public fast and directly. This article explains how to do it well—step by step.

We cover planning, choosing the right tools, setting up your gear, handling accessibility, managing retention, and tracking performance. You’ll also find recent stats, expert insights, and trusted tools that work for local governments.

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Why Live Stream?

Live streaming builds trust. When people hear directly from you in real-time, they’re more likely to listen and less likely to fall for misinformation.

• 83% of U.S. adults say they prefer watching a live stream over reading a social media post during a crisis.
  (Source: Pew Research Center, 2024)

• Over 60% of local governments now use live streaming for at least one public event each month.
  (Source: Center for Digital Government, 2025)

“Live streaming lets public agencies control the narrative and reach people where they are—on their phones,” says Megan Ellis, Communications Director for the City of Tempe, AZ.

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