(KAIR)--Following a request from constituents, the Atchison County Commission has agreed to begin broadcasting their regular weekly meetings.

According to 1st District County Commissioner Jeff Schuele, the decision was reached Tuesday on a unanimous 2-0 vote.

2nd District Commissioner Eric Noll had previously expressed apprehension towards the plan, failing to second a motion to move forward with the idea during the Commission's August 16th meeting.

Following the lack of approval to live stream on Facebook, Noll took to the social media platform when a constituent questioned the decision, saying, at that time, he was concerned with how it could affect private matters handled in executive session.

The live streaming is effective immediately, with the County's IT department to look for ways to increase the quality of video and sound.

The Commission Tuesday also gave final approval to the 2017 budget, following the required public hearing.

Schuele says it includes a projected 53.647 mill levy, which reflects a 2.5-percent decrease from last year.

Schuele says balancing the budget was a challenge, based on state funding cuts affecting various services and agencies, adding that the County intends “to improve and increase services in our road and road and bridge depts, recycling, and customer friendly services in 2017.”

The budget, as approved, provides the Commission with the authority to expend nearly $15.8 million during the next fiscal year.

3rd District Commissioner Bill Pohl remains absent from meetings due to medical reasons.