Charter’s New Franchise Could Jeopardize City-Run Channels

Channel3000.com:

Charter said competition is behind the move. But that competition could soon create a financial strain on what many call a basic city service.

The franchise termination is in response to the “Cable TV Competition Bill,” which now allows cable companies to end franchise agreements with local municipalities and instead agree to a statewide franchise.

But many said the legislation, and Charter’s decision to end its local franchise agreements, jeopardizes customer service and the fate of city-run cable channels.

“We’ve been on cable channel 12 since 1974,” said Brad Clark, Madison City Channel’s station manager. “So all that time, people know if they want to watch the Common Council meeting, (it’s on) cable 12.”

It’s just one thing that could soon change. But for Clark and his crew at the city-run channel, it’s the least of their worries.

Under a new law, Charter has terminated its franchise agreement with the city of Madison — and other municipalities across the state. Charter has opted for a statewide franchise agreement.

The change could move Channel 12 to another channel — and dramatically affect funding.