CCTV Board of Directors

Dear CCTV Members,

Looking back at a year when CCTV was once again awarded the Overall Excellence in Public Access award, we are reminded that CCTV represents Public Access at its best. The energy and creativity of our members and producers, and the commitment and unending effort of the past and present staff, gives Cambridge a treasure that has steadily grown to have a national presence and influence.

As it was a couple of years ago, public access continues to be threatened by the telecommunications companies who want to enter the content delivery business but do not want to have to deal with local governments to get permission. Much of the board’s work and energy in the past year has been centered around strategies related to addressing this threat.

In the spring, with legislation introduced in both the US House and Senate, the board produced a PSA that explained the inherent problems with the legislation. Thanks to internet video sites, this PSA was shown nationally. The bill did not pass in the Senate, but the FCC soon after approved a resolution that relaxed many restrictions on the franchising process. Verizon, not satisfied with its current level of community-disabling efforts, has also drafted potentially damaging legislation that has been introduced in many state legislatures, including Massachusetts. The board has been working with the staff and with other public access centers to contact state representatives and senators exposing the misinformation campaign that Verizon has waged in this state and across the country. The fight continues and we could use everybody’s help.

Not to neglect the internal needs of CCTV, the board began the year by coordinating the revision of the member policies. We also further refined our investment strategy. Our new mutual fund account with Progressive Asset Management earned 5% in the past year.

Finally, with board seats turning over and being vacated, we debated board development, recruitment and retention strategies. The fruits of these discussions are being presented in early 2007 as a by-law amendment. We are excited about the next step for the board. Our intent is to set up a structure that attracts a new level of involvement from professionals and industry leaders who can guide CCTV to be proactive in its development and continued leadership in the field.

It has been an exciting year, and I thank you for your participation and support.

Sincerely,

Joseph Douillette
President, Cambridge Community Television