New Hanover County using Wordly to translate Board of Commissioner meetings
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) – New Hanover County has implemented Wordly, an AI-powered language and transcription service, during Board of Commissioner meetings.
This new technology allows the public access to real-time transcription or translation into more than 60 languages.
“As part of our work building a Language Access Plan, we knew we needed to find a way to provide better non-native English speakers information on what is taking place at Commissioner meetings. Wordly is helping us bridge that gap,” said Diversity and Equity Officer Linda Thompson. “This is an incredible tool that enables anyone attending a meeting to access the ongoing discussions taking place between our Commissioners, staff and the public, in their native language, ensuring a government that is meeting people where they are.”
Available through any smart device, Wordly allows a user to select what preferred language transcription or translation they would like to hear or see. Meeting attendees will connect to the program via a QR code provided at the check-in table through their own device, or on a county-issued device that can be borrowed. Audio translation will require the use of headphones during the meeting.
In addition to this new tool, Commissioner meetings also feature closed captioning for broadcast or live-streaming audiences, accessed through NHCtv on Spectrum channel 13, NHCtv.com, and YouTube.com/NewHanoverCo. Assistive hearing devices can also be checked out during in-person meetings at the Historic Downtown Courthouse. More information on county language access resources can be found by clicking here or visiting Diversity.NHCgov.com.
