Town Seeks Community Input About Cable Television
Cable TV, televsion
Public survey is open through Friday, August 7.
Source: amherstma.gov
The Town of Amherst invites the community to participate in a brief survey to share their experiences with cable television in Amherst. All residents are encouraged to participate even if they are not current cable subscribers.
Complete the survey here: amherstma.gov/cable-survey
The survey is open through Friday, August 7.
This public survey is an opportunity for residents to provide feedback about: (a) whether the current cable operator, Comcast, is in full compliance with its currently-existing cable license; and (b) what are the town’s future community cable-related needs.
Every 10 years, the town conducts a comprehensive review and renewal of its cable license to ensure community needs are met and service standards maintained. Currently, Comcast is the sole provider holding a franchise agreement to provide cable services within the Town of Amherst. The current contract commenced in October 2016 and will expire in October 2026.
The Town formed a Cable Television Advisory Committee (CTAC) made up of residents and staff to support and facilitate this renewal process. The CTAC is charged with the responsibility to provide advice and assistance in the negotiations for and compliance with the cable television license agreement for cable television service under the framework set forth by federal and state law.
The CTAC will advise the Town Manager on the cable operator’s performance under the current license and assist in gathering public input about the community’s future cable-related needs and interests. Specifically, the committee will support the ascertainment phase of the license renewal process and help prepare an Ascertainment Report. During this process, the committee may hold public hearing(s), conduct a town-wide survey, meet with relevant stakeholders, and/or review existing documents.
The Committee will utilize the results of this ascertainment process in review of any cable operator’s proposal for a license agreement. Please note: This committee and renewal process has no role in determining cable television prices.
To learn more about the Cable Television Advisory Committee’s work, access meeting minutes and important documents, and more, please visit amherstma.gov/cable. To contact the CTAC members, email cable@amherstma.gov.
The public is also welcome to attend any regular CTAC meetings where time is always reserved for public comment. Please refer to the town’s meeting calendar for future meetings as they are posted.