Local Access Channels

What is the City of Maquoketa Access Television?
The channels were established in conjunction with the cable television franchise ordinance. The channels are regulated and governed by the Maquoketa Cable Commission which is appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. The purpose of Commission is to encourage and develop community access programming.

What channels does the City of Maquoketa operate?
Government Access and Community Access operate on channels 18 and 19 respectively.

How is the City of Maquoketa Access Television funded?
The channels are funded by the cable franchise fee paid to the City of Maquoketa by Mediacom. When the cable company runs its cables through a city, it does it in the public rights-of-way (under streets, on poles, etc.). This land is owned by the city. Franchise fees are, in essence, rent for the use of these rights-of-way. The annual franchise fee has been set at 5% of the cable company's gross revenues from cable TV-related activities. The cable company does not pay franchise fees on services such as high-speed Internet.

How can I produce a program for cablecast on Community Access Television?
To produce a program on Community Access, you must fulfill the requirements of membership - you must live within the city limits. You must also become a certified producer. This requires taking the Producer Orientation Class. After that, you may produce your own programs for air on Community Access.

How long does it take for my program to get on the air? Can I request specific airtimes for my program?
Normally, there is about a two-week period between the time you turn in your program and the first airing on the channel. This is mainly because of the requirements for us to get programming listed. We will do our best to honor your request, but all final decisions about airtimes are made by the staff.

How much does it cost to get a program on Community Access?
There is a fee for the producer orientation class, and you must provide your own tape for your program. All use of production equipment, as well as all airtime, is free.

Do I have to produce programming to be a volunteer at Community Access?
No! If you only want to run a camera, do audio, or just edit, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available. Please contact us for more information on current volunteer opportunities.

Is there assistance available if I have a question about using the equipment?
Yes! We are always available to provide assistance and advice for your production.

Are there volunteer opportunities available that don't involve TV production?
Yes! We always need help with various projects and facility maintenance. From time to time there are also opportunities to serve on the board. Please contact the Station Director for more information.

So, I can put anything I want in my program?
While the allowable content in programming on Community Access is extremely broad, there are some types of content that are prohibited. This would fall under "unprotected speech;" that is, speech not afforded protection under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This includes libel, slander, obscenity, illegal activity, invasion of privacy, etc. Additionally, commercials and advertising are prohibited.

If I see something that I disagree with on Community Access, what can I do?
You may contact Community Access staff at 652-2835 and let us know how you feel about programming you disagree with. Our policy is to provide you with the name and contact information of the producer responsible for the program. You may then contact the producer directly if you so choose. You may also become a community producer yourself and produce a program expressing an opposing point of view.

If I have any additional questions about the City of Maquoketa Access TV Channels, who can I contact?
You may contact us by phone at 652-2835; by e-mail (click here); by mail at 201 East Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 or in-person at the Cable Access office in City Hall.