Public:Channel 17 Policies

1 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Public:Channel 17 Policies From WikiCCTV Notes Contents 1 About the Channel 1.1 Mission & Purpose 1.2 Brief History of Channel 17/ Town Meeting Television 1.3 Contact Information 2 Program Parameters 2.1 Program Priorities & Scheduling 2.2 Programming Sources 2.3 Funding Priorities 2.4 Editing Policies for Programs and Public Information 2.5 Election Policies 2.5.1 General 2.5.2 Definitions 2.5.3 Appearances on Behalf of Candidates and Ballot Items 2.5.4 Election Forums 2.5.5 Other Election Programming 2.5.6 Restrictions on Use 2.5.7 Election Season Waiver 2.6 Archival Policies 2.6.1 Access to Archives 2.6.2 Archival Management 2.7 Licensing the Use of Channel 17 Content 3 Usage of Staff and Facilities 4 Responsibilities and Expectations of Channel 17 Users 5 Penalties 5.1 Limitations on Use of Airtime 6 Responsibilities of Trustees 6.1 Responsibilities of Trustees 6.2 Annual Evaluations 6.3 Investment Policies 6.4 Attendance Policies 6.5 Amending Operating Policies 7 Definitions 8 Forms 8.1 Archive Request 8.2 Duplication Services

2 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM 9 Supporting Documents About the Channel Mission & Purpose Revised 4/20/05 1.1 The mission of Channel 17/Town Meeting Television is to be a community supported and sought after multi-media resource that engages citizens in local government. Channel 17 is a free speech forum for the discussion of government operations and public issues. Brief History of Channel 17/ Town Meeting Television 1.2.1 In September 1988, the Vermont Public Service Board ("the Board") approved the Purchase of the state's largest cable TV operation to Adelphia Cable Communications based in Coudersport, Pennsylvania. 1.2.2 Funding for operations and equipment for Channel 17/ Town Meeting Television was approved as part of Vermont Public Service Board Docket 5247 in 1989. Funding and capacity for government access purposes were upheld in the most recent Docket 7077, authorizing Comcast to purchase Adelphia Communications (approved by the Board in December 2005). 1.2.3 In 2005, the Vermont Public Service Board authorized Burlington Telecom to provide cable and other digital services to subscribers in the City of Burlington. BT s obligation to provide PEG access channels, capacity and funding is detailed in Docket 7044. 1.2.4 Comcast s Green Mountain "headend" serves just under 30,000 households in Chittenden County, including the cities of Burlington, South Burlington and Winooski, the towns of Essex, Colchester and Williston, and the villages of St. George and Essex Junction. Of more than 150 channels, three are specifically dedicated for Public, Educational and Government (PEG) Access television. 1.2.5 Community or PEG access television is provided by three Access Management Organizations (AMOs) that serve Comcast customers in Chittenden County and Burlington Telecom in the City of Burlington. These AMO s work cooperatively and consider their facilities and airtime to be part of a shared public resource set aside by Congress to serve free expression and public access and the public interest. 1.2.5.1 The Public Access Channel 15, launched in 1984, is operated by the Vermont Community Access Media Corp. (VCAM) and is based at 208 Flynn Avenue in Burlington. 1.2.5.2 The Educational Access Channel 16 was first activated by the Burlington School Department in the late 1980's and is now run as a full time operation by the Regional

3 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Education Technology Network (R.E.T.N) also based at 208 Flynn Avenue in Burlington (as of March 2007).. 1.2.5.3 The Government Access Channel 17 (Town Meeting Television) is overseen by the Chittenden County Government Access Trust, established in 1990. The legislative bodies of the member municipalities appoint representatives from each community. Voting privileges and levels of service for each member community are based on the number of subscribers in each municipality. 1.2.6 The terms of the Trust are detailed in the Trust Agreement (Exhibit xx), which outlines the voting rights and responsibilities of the Trustees. See Exhibit xx for an updated List of Trustees, Voting Distribution and Exhibit xx for Trustee Responsiblities. 1.2.7 Composed of representatives of municipalities in the Comcast Green Mountain Service territory, Channel 17's Trustees include the following member municipalities: Burlington, South Burlington, Essex Town, Essex Junction, Winooski, Williston, and Colchester. St. George does not have a Trustee representative to the Trust. (Exhibit xx: Current Trustees). 1.2.8 Channel 17's Trustees meet each month at Channel 17 headquarters at 294 North Winooski Avenue, in Burlington's Old North End. Channel 17 Committees may include Finance and Programming. Officers of the Trustees are elected in January of each year and serve for a period of one year at the pleasure of their governing bodies. 1.2.9 Channel 17 contracts with Chittenden Community TV d/b/a CCTV Center for Media & Democracy, to operate Channel 17 and mange its related activities. (Exhibit xx: CCTV Contract) 1.2.10 Channel 17 is funded by the subscribers of Comcast in the Green Mountain system and Burlington Telecom within the city of Burlington. Total PEG funding (operating and capital) i amounts to roughly 1.66% of the cable operators' gross operating revenues. C 1.2.11 Channel 17's current contract with Comcast will expire in on 30 September 2010. Channel 17 contract with Burlington Telecom will expire on 30 September 2016. Contact Information Comcast Cable Melissa Pierce, Government Affairs Coordinator, 802.419.6624, Melissa_pierce@cable.comcast.com Burlington Telecom Amber Thibault, Contract and Governmental Affairs Specialist Office: (802) 846-5031, Mobile:(802) 233-5386, athibeault@burlingtontelecom.com Public Access/ Channel 15 - VCAM - 651.9692, Program Manager: Rob Champman Educational Access/ Channel 16-864-3080, Director: Scott Campitelli Government Access/ Channel 17 - Town Meeting TV - 862-3966, Channel Coordinator: Rob Reiber x13.

4 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Program Parameters Program Priorities & Scheduling 2.1 Scheduling the use of Channel 17 air time and resources shall be the sole responsibility of the Channel 17 staff. Scheduling will be performed on a first-come, first-served basis. Scheduling will be in accordance with the Channel goals, program priorities and the availability of staff, equipment and Channel resources based on the direction of the policy board. 2.1.1 Programming that fulfills Channel 17's mission shall be informational in nature. Channel 17 Policy does not preclude events where advocacy takes place and specifically encourages citizen's views of government operations and public issues. As a first amendment forum, any citizen may use the Channel to address public policy issues on a first-come, first-served basis. (See 6. Restrictions on Use). 2.1.2 Channel 17 programming includes video programs, live video transmissions and information submitted for inclusion on electronic bulletin boards or web site operated by Channel 17. See "Sources of Programming" 2.1.3 Each member community is entitled to a minimum of 18 and maximum of 36 hours of video production each month for coverage of municipal meetings or other programs designated by the municipal representatives. The balance of Channel 17's programming day is dedicated to election coverage, public events and speakers of regional, state or national interest, the municipal bulletin board and citizen views on government issues and matters of public policy. 2.1.4 The following program categories are consistent with the mission of Channel 17, are subject to first come, first-served conditions required by PEG access and are subject to review by the Channel 17 Trustees: 2.1.4.1 Local town and government meetings within Chittenden County member municipalities are the first priority of Channel 17. Other priorities include: 2.1.4.2 Live or pre-recorded programs regarding municipal services, ranging from Municipal Department Updates, Mayor's Monthly programs, Planning Department Previews, Parks and Recreation Seasonal Programs, Public Safety Primers, Budget Presentations, etc. 2.1.4.3 Live or pre-recorded special programs or current events, especially pertaining to the electoral and legislative process and public policy issues. Examples include Town Meeting coverage, press conferences and public speakers, our nightly "Live at 5:25PM" Call-in- program, candidate forums, election results, legislative updates and public hearings. 2.1.4.4 State or regional government meetings of local interest. 2.1.4.5 National programs of local interest, including updates from Congressional and Senate officials.

5 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM 2.1.4.6 Municipal bulletin board to include information regarding meeting schedules of local government, community events and issues that relate to local government. 2.1.4.7 Programming obtained from outside sources pertinent to local government issues, public policy and citizen interest. 2.1.4.8 Productions with a cultural or educational element may be included at the discretion of the member municipalities during their allotted airtime. Programming Sources 2.2.1 Channel 17 programming will come from the following sources: 2.2.1.1 Live. Municipal Meetings. Live coverage of public meetings may be provided. In order to activate public meeting sites for cablecasting, requests for live coverage must be made 45 days in advance of the date requested. All requests for live program cablecasting will be subject to the limitations and availability of necessary equipment, channel time, Channel 17 staff and resources, and Comcast and Burlington Telecom technical support and personnel. 2.2.1.2 Live. Studio Productions. Channel 17 produces a live call-in program every weeknight at 5:25PM. This is considered to be a first amendment forum for the discussion of public issues and government initiatives. These slots are scheduled on a first-come first served basis and may be limited because of pre-scheduled election forums and coverage. Equipment and studio crew will be provided by Channel 17. Live show producers may provide their own hosts. Regular time slots will be offered on a monthly basis only and may be reserved six months at a time. Failure to appear at the scheduled time may result in the discontinuance of the series. Regular schedules may be pre-empted by emergency programming and/or election coverage. See Election Policies, below. 2.2.1.3 Field Production. Municipal meetings, public functions and special events will be aired live or recorded for cablecasing at a later date. All requests for tape delayed cablecasting will be subject to the limitations and availability of Channel time, staff and resources. 2.2.1.4 Studio Production. Studio productions may be scheduled by interested citizens, legislators and municipal employees. Channel 17 equipment and staff will be provided for these productions. Program producers are encouraged to provide their own hosts for these programs. Regular time slots are limited to once or twice a month and may be reserved for six months at a time. Failure to appear at the scheduled time may result in the discontinuance of a series. 2.2.1.5 Municipal Bulletin Board. Municipal information, messages and press releases from member municipalities, government agencies and public policy organizations will be edited as needed to conform to the space and technical limitations of the Channel 17 s electronic bulletin board or website. 2.2.1.6 Contributed Programming. Channel 17 will accept public service announcements and programs addressing public issues and governance from sources outside of the member municipalities. Such programs are subject to Channel 17's

6 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM guidelines and program priorities set forth above. If the Channel Manager determines that the technical quality of the contributed program will not withstand the rigors of cable casting, the program will be returned to the contributing producers. Funding Priorities 2.3 The funding priority of the Channel 17 Trustees is to support coverage of 3-6 municipal meetings for each member municipality each month. Editing Policies for Programs and Public Information 2.4.1 Meetings. All public meetings will be presented as gavel-to-gavel coverage."gavel-to-gavel" will be strictly interpreted as meaning coverage from beginning to end without interruption. If a community member does not wish to appear on camera, the chair of the meeting may request that the camera be turned away from that person during their testimony while the audio is recorded. 2.4.1.2 It is the policy of Channel 17 to provide continuous coverage of municipal meetings. beyond the authority of the municipal board chair to request that the camera be turned of during any open part of the meeting. Decisions regarding meeting length, preparation for cable casting and possible scheduling conflicts will be directed to the designated representative of the entity holding the meeting. 2.4.2 Programs. Any programming prepared by or provided by a member municipality or contributing producer may be modified or edited as appropriate to the policies governing channels use, or as determined by scheduling and personnel resources. Contributing producers will be notified of any modifications prior to cablecasting. 2.4.3 Municipal Bulletin Board. Informational messages for use on the Municipal Bulletin Board shall be edited for clarity and to maximize the capacity of the system. 2.4.4 Any issues regarding the preparation of meetings or municipal authority will be referred to the local municipal Trustee for a final decision. Any appeal of these decisions will be directed to the full Board of Trustees for resolution. Election Policies Revised 11/01. Revised 10/07. Revised 10/09. Revised 6/12. General 2.5.1.1 Impartial Forum. It is the intention of Channel 17 to provide a fair, impartial forum for candidates and the discussion of election issues. Channel 17 will not endorse any candidate, issue or measure on a ballot. The Channel will use reasonable efforts to include all candidates in forums. 2.5.1.2 Election Guidelines. Election programming guidelines are established by the Channel 17 Board of Trustees and are updated on a regular basis. The election guidelines detail programming conventions related to the coverage of candidates and

7 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM the discussion of ballot items during primary, general and municipal elections ( election season ). 2.5.1.3 Election Guideline Implementation. Channel 17 staff implements these guidelines under the direction of the Trustees. Complaints by users that arise from the implementation of these guidelines are to be addressed to the Chair of the Trustees. See also Grievance Procedure, Sec. 2.5.22. 2.5.1.4 Publicize Guidelines. During election season and upon request, staff will make election guidelines available, in written and cablecast form, to the candidates, members of the public and channel producers in a timely manner. 2.5.1.5 Air Schedules. All election forums will be posted to Channel 17's web site www.channel17.org Depending upon the availability of airtime on the channel itself, staff will make their best efforts to repeat election forums on Channel 17. Election programs may be aired between four and eight times during the course of election season. The specific air times may be scheduled at the staff's discretion. 2.5.1.6 Additional Information. For additional information about Channel 17 Election Guidelines contact the Channel Coordinator at 862-3966 x13. 2.5.1.7 Conflict of Interest. Six weeks prior to Election Day, Channel 17 Trustees who are candidates running for election or re-election will abstain from decisions relating to their specific political race. Decisions will be deferred to an alternate representative. If one does not exist, the governing board of their member community will appoint an alternate. Definitions 2.5.2.1 Candidate. A candidate is any person who has publicly declared that they will stand for local, state or national election. A candidate will have announced their intention to run for election primary, general, town meeting or special elections. A person will be considered by Channel 17 to be a candidate if their announcement appears in the "media of record" and/or they file their intention to appear on the election ballot with appropriate government entity (e.g., local clerk's office, Secretary of State, federal election commission. 2.5.2.2 Black-Out Period. Channel 17's obligation to provide production services and channel airtime to candidates is subject to certain production and airtime restrictions. During these black out periods, candidates appearances are subject to Section 2.5.3.1, below. 2.5.2.2.1 Production Black-Out Period.Channel 17 staff is not obliged to provide production services to any candidate 30 days prior to primary, general, town meeting or special elections. 2.5.2.2.2 Airtime Black-Out Period.Channel 17 staff is not obliged to provide airtime on Channel 17 to any candidate 21 days prior to primary, general, town meeting or special elections. All election coverage will cease to be aired on Channel 17 twenty-four hours prior to the opening of the polling places on Election Day.

8 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM 2.5.2.2.3 Web Black-Out Period. There is no web "black-out" period. Programs that are produced before the Production Blackout Period may appear on www.ch17.tv through out the Airtime Black Out Period. 2.5.2.3 Signed Waiver. During election season, regular producers and live show guests will be informed of these guidelines and asked to sign a document indicating that they understand and agree to comply with the guidelines. (See "Waiver", below). Appearances on Behalf of Candidates and Ballot Items 2.5.3.1 Candidate Appearances During Election Season. During election season "black out period" candidates may appear on Channel 17: a) as a participant in a Channel 17 election forum to which all candidates have been invited; b) as a participant in a Channel 17 election forum sponsored by entities other than Channel 17; c) as an elected official carrying out their duties (e.g.,incumbent mayor, select board member or member of an administration); and/or d) as a participant in a public event that is typically covered by Channel 17 staff or volunteers and not subject to airtime restrictions. 2.5.3.1.1 Candidate Appearances During General Election Season. Candidates who declare their intention to run in the General Election, but are uncontested in the Primary Election, may appear on Channel 17 during the Primary Election Season: a) as an elected official carrying out their duties (e.g.,incumbent mayor, select board member or member of an administration); and/or b) as a participant in a public event that is typically covered by Channel 17 staff or volunteers and not subject to airtime restrictions. c) as a guest on a 15 minute interview hosted by Channel 17 staff or in a comparable program produced by a Vermont community access center. 2.5.3.2 National Candidates. Channel 17 staff and volunteers will cover appearances of national candidates when they appear in Chittenden County or within the state, if resources are available. 2.5.3.3 Write-in Candidates. Write-in candidates must make themselves known not less than 10 days before a Channel 17 produced or co-produced forum in order to be included as a participant in that forum. 2.5.3.4 Ballot Item Advocates. Advocates on behalf of a ballot items must make themselves known not less than 10 days before a Channel 17 produced or co-produced forum in order to be included as a participant in that forum. Election Forums 2.5.4.1 Channel 17 Forums. Top priority for the use of Channel 17 production resources is given to live election forums produced by Channel 17 staff, to which all candidates have been invited. These forums are typically scheduled in the month prior

9 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM to Election Day and air live during Channel 17 s regularly scheduled live program slot, are repeated on the air over the course of election season and posted on-line at www.ch17.tv 2.5.4.2 Co-Produced Forums. To the extent that Channel 17 collaborates with Vermont media organizations or community based organizations to produce election forums, all candidates will be invited to attend. 2.5.4.3 Prearranged Forums. Channel 17 may choose to record prearranged forums organized by non-aligned organizations or sponsors (other than Channel 17), provided that all candidates have been invited to a Channel 17 forum or co-produced forum. Examples include League of Women Voters, local media outlets, neighborhood and professional associations. 2.5.4.4 Notice of Election Forum. Forums will be organized with as much lead time as possible, but a minimum of one week s notice shall be given to candidates. 2.5.4.5 Moderators for the Forum. Non-partisan moderators designated by Channel 17 staff will conduct Channel 17-produced election forums. 2.5.4.6 Questions and Topics. Questions for the forum may be drafted by Channel 17. Questions may be gleaned through review of local news, consultation with local officials and Channel 17 Trustees. Questions and topics will address issues of current public concern. Questions or topics will be sent to candidates for preview five days prior to the scheduled election forum. The moderator may also entertain questions from the viewing audience. Viewer calls take precedence over drafted questions. 2.5.4.7 Format of the Forum. The Channel 17 forum will be conducted so that each candidate is given equal opportunity to respond to the questions posed by the moderator and by the viewing audience. 2.5.4.8 Absence from a Forum. Channel 17 makes its best effort to schedule live election debates so that all candidates can attend. If a candidate is not able to attend, Channel 17 is not obliged to provide alternative airtime for them. Other Election Programming 2.5.5.1Budgets and Ballot Items. Channel 17 staff will, to its best ability, make time available to member communities to present their budgets and Election Day ballot items to viewers. Community opponents or proponents of a budget or ballot item may request airtime to respond. Airtime will be scheduled based on availability and at staff discretion. Restrictions on Use 2.5.6.1Restrictions on Use. If an individual appears on Channel 17 during election season, outside of a forum described above, they may not advertise or comment on behalf of or opposing a particular political candidate. 2.5.5.1 Pre-produced programs. Pre-produced programs submitted on behalf of a

10 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM candidate after the Airtime Black-out Period begins will not be accepted for cablecasting on Channel 17. This prohibition extends to citizens or producers who produce a regular program on Channel 17. The regularly scheduled program will resume at the close of Election Day. 2.5.5.2 Penalties. If an individual appears on Channel 17 during election season and advocates or opposes a candidate, their privilege will be revoked and they will not be permitted to appear on Channel 17 for 3 regularly scheduled programs or two months from the date of the transgression. (This excludes municipal coverage obligations if the candidate is an incumbent per Section 2.5.3.1, above). 2.5.5.3 Discontinuing Prohibited Programming. To the extent that Channel 17 becomes aware that a current producer has violated the guidelines, Channel 17 reserves the right to discontinue airing their regular program without notice. (See "Penalties" Section 2.5.21, above). 2.5.5.4 Grievances. If a candidate or sponsor of a ballot item believes that the Channel 17 guidelines have been violated, they will inform the Channel 17 Staff in writing. If they are not satisfied with Staff response, they may direct their complaint to the Chair of the Channel 17 Trustees. If the dispute falls outside of the guidelines detailed in this policy document, the Channel 17 Trustees may consider the matter at the Trustees meeting scheduled to occur after election season is completed. Election Season Waiver 2.5.6.1 Waiver. All Channel 17 producers and guests will sign the following waiver, acknowledging the receipt and understanding of the policy guidelines outlined in this document. The waiver states: "I have read and understand the guidelines and restrictions on the use of Channel 17 facilities and equipment during election season and agree to comply with these guidelines and the penalties for transgression. " Archival Policies Access to Archives (Approved 11/06) 2.6.1 Handling.Materials must be handled with care. Please do not mark them or erase existing marks. As in most other areas of the Library, eating, drinking and smoking are not allowed. 2.6.1.2 Use of Content. Permission from the CCTV/Channel 17 Archives must be obtained before any portion of a program is publicly retransmitted. In giving permission to copy, quote from, or publish Channel 17 does not surrender their own right to publish such material or to grant permission to others to do so. The patron assumes full responsibility for the use of material and for conformity to the laws of defamation, privacy, and copyright, and shall indemnify and hold harmless CCTV and Channel 17 from claims arising as a result of use of the material so obtained. Ownership of all

11 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM materials remain in the possession of Channel 17. 2.6.1.2.1 The patron assumes full responsibility for obtaining permission to use, publish or retransmit archive material in whole or in part. Permission will not be unreasonably withheld. However, the Mission Statement of Channel 17 is to engage citizens in local government. It is the position of Channel 17 that the alteration, in any manner, of archive material or the use, publication or retransmission, of any part, of archive material, by or for a candidate for public office or in connection with a political campaign, whether such use, publication or retransmission is positive or negative in nature or in support of or opposition to a candidate or campaign, will have a long term chilling effect on the willingness of a current or potential candidate or candidates to participate in Channel 17 sponsored forums or other forums for which Channel 17 produces archive material. Consequently, the use, publication or retransmission of archive material or the alteration of any part of archive material for such purposes is not reasonable. 2.6.1.2.2 Channel 17 shall have the right to demand the patron cease to use, produce or retransmit archive material which, in Channel 17 s sole opinion, conflicts with, interferes with or is detrimental to Channel 17 s interests or reputation, or which might subject Channel 17 to unfavorable publicity or regulatory action, or which may violate any law, infringe the rights of any person, or subject Channel 17 to liability for any reason. Upon notice from Channel 17, the patron agrees to immediately cease the use, production or retransmission of archive material. Any retransmission of all or part of programs found in the Channel 17 archives must be accompanied by a public acknowledgement of Channel 17 Burlington VT. 2.6.1.2.3 For the protection of its holdings, Channel 17 Archives also reserves the right to restrict the use of materials which are not arranged or are in the process of being arranged, materials of exceptional value, and fragile materials. 2.6.1.3 Reproduction Services and Fees. Requests for the copying of materials from Channel 17 Archives must be made on the Duplication Request Form and approved by one of our professional staff. Permission is dependent upon copyright provisions, restrictions that may have been placed on the material by the donors or under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the physical condition of the material, or whether the archive material is to be used by a candidate for public office or in connection with a political campaign. Duplicates ordered from the archives are to be used only for personal or research purposes unless permission for the use, publication or retransmission is applied for and granted by a senior member of our professional staff. 2.6.1.3.1 Duplication or reproduction is done by staff only. This is normally done as other staff duties allow and as time permits. 2.6.1.3.2 If the patron is not able to pick up the order in person, a shipping fee will be charged based on the units ordered; Channel 17 Archives reserves the right to charge additional mailing costs for large orders, or for orders sent outside the United States. Pre-payment for all duplication services (cash, certified check, money order or credit card) is required.

12 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Archival Management 2.6.2.1 Channel 17 generally retains copies of recorded municipal meetings for one year, at the end of which time the media may be reused or discarded. 2.6.2.2 Municipalities may request to preserve specific meetings provided that they compensate Channel 17 for the cost of the media. Channel 17 may make this inquiry of municipal department contacts on an annual basis. 2.6.2.3 Channel 17 will retain the master copy of programs (other than municipal meetings, see 2.6.2.1, above) it produces or aids substantially in producing. This master will be retained as part of the Channel 17 archives. These programs may be viewed in Channel 17 premises by appointment. Copies of the master program may be purchased from CCTV. See Duplication Price List. 2.6.2.4 Copies of programming provided to Channel 17 for airing by outside producers will not be made with without the express permission of the producer. 2.6.2.5 In the event that Channel 17 ceases to operate, arrangements may be made to store the channel archives in a central location for ten years. Any group or individual that submits a program for airing on Channel 17 is responsible for retrieving their master copy. The program must be picked up from Channel 17 offices within 60 days of its use on the air. If it is not, it will become part of the Channel 17 archives. Users may also include a stamped self-addressed return envelope of the appropriate size which will be used by staff to return the master copy to the user, once it has been aired on Channel 17. Licensing the Use of Channel 17 Content 2.7.1 Airing Channel 17 Content. Channel 17 programming may be aired by other public access channels, in the classroom and in public settings provided the sponsoring entity is not profiting from such display. 2.7.2 Duplication of Channel 17 Content. Copies of Channel 17 programming may be sold in accordance with section 5.14 of Channel 17 s operating policies. Copies are for viewing only and will be affixed with a label that reads as follows: 200x7 (or the appropriate year) Channel 17 All Rights Reserved 2.7.3 Licensing. Channel 17 may, at staff discretion, license its footage. The license is non-exclusive and Channel 17 retains the right to license the same footage to other parties. Licensed footage must be attributed to Channel 17 Town Meeting Television. Channel 17 will charge $150 per minute to license footage plus dubbing fees, tape costs and shipping. Channel 17 staff can waive or reduce this fee if deemed appropriate. 2.7.4 Web Content. Channel 17 programming available on the Channel 17 website will be protected by a Creative Commons license. 2.7.4.1 The Channel 17 web site will contain notification of the Creative Commons license that allows website users to copy, distribute, display and perform the work

13 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM under the following conditions: The work must be attributed to Channel 17 Town Meeting Television, the work may not be used for commercial purposes and the work may not be altered, transformed or built upon. Channel 17 staff may waive any of these provisions. Usage of Staff and Facilities 3. Usage of Channel 17 staff and facilities are determined by the Programming Priorities listed in Section 2.1 above. 3.1 Channel 17 staff, resources and facilities are for the use of (1) member municipalities and subscribers of the cable operators' service territories, and (2) individuals working on issues consistent with our mission outlined Section 1.1, Mission. Programs produced with these resources must conform to the Program Priorities outlined in Section 2.1. 3.2 Municipal members may purchase additional production services from CCTV for the purposes of airing on Channel 17. 3.2 Other governmental jurisdictions (regional and State) and interested citizens requesting production services may be trained on a first-come, first-served basis or charged for staff labor, provided that the activity or information is consistent with the program priorities of Channel 17. Production Service rates are available by contacting CCTV Staff at 802.862.1645 x15. 3.3 Use of Channel 17 production equipment is limited to designated staff, certified individuals who have completed training required by Channel 17 and/or interns under the supervision of the Channel 17 staff. 3.4 Loaning, rental or use of equipment for programs that will not appear on Channel 17 is prohibited. 3.4.1 Individuals and organizations interested in program production beyond the scope of the Program Priorities are encouraged to contact Channel 15/ VCAM (public access channel) and Channel 16/ RETN (educational access channel). See Section 1.3, "Contact Information". 3.5 Training programs will be provided by staff by appointment to an individual or small group of users. Users who have satisfactorily completed training will receive a certificate of completion that will be required for subsequent use of Channel 17-video production and post-production equipment. Trained producers will sign a waiver indicating that they have read, understood and will abide by Channel 17 operating policies. 3.6 Those who have been certified by Channel 17 staff to use the equipment and facilities may apply for and schedule this equipment on a first come, first-served basis, subject to equipment available. 3.7 Channel 17 reserves the right to review programs for compliance with Program Priorities and copyright obligations. Users of Channel 17 facilities and resources bear

14 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM sole responsibility for the contents and material used in all programs produced by or for them. Producers will agree to obtain all necessary releases from program participants, obtain any required copyright clearances and comply with all other policies and guidelines established for programming cable cast on Channel 17. 3.8 Users of Channel 17 will hold harmless Channel 17 Trustees and Staff for any breach of copyright or other liabilities due to the material content, negligence or error of the user. 3.9 Channel 17 will periodically air a disclaimer that states: Channel 17/ Town Meeting Television is the Government Access Channel in Chittenden County serving the viewers of Comcast and Burlington Telecom. Channel 17 is a free speech forum for the discussion of government operations and public issues. The views expressed in the following program(s) do not reflect the views of the Channel 17 Board of Trustees or staff. 3.10 Programming guidelines apply to written information submitted to Channel 17 for inclusion in the Electronic Bulletin Board and/or website and will be edited where necessary by Channel 17 staff to maximize the impact and clarity of the message. Determination of the suitability of these submissions for the venues managed by Channel 17 is the responsibility of Channel 17 staff. 3.11 The selection and scheduling of the Electronic Bulletin Board, videotapes and live events for cablecasting and presentation on Channel 17 s website are solely the responsibility of Channel 17. 3.12 All Channel 17 programming, whether live or recorded, shall be identified by producer or sources of programming and include credits and the beginning and end of each program. Failure on the part of a user to provide this information may result in a program not being aired on Channel 17. Responsibilities and Expectations of Channel 17 Users Adopted 10/07 4. Channel 17 Users will: Review and comply with Channel 17 Policies and Procedures. Take full responsibility for the content of their program and the actions of their crew. Treat access staff with courtesy. Treat equipment and facilities with respect and care. Obtain the necessary training. Respect the rights of others to use the access resources. Make and cancel reservations in a timely manner. Return equipment in good working order on time. Obtain necessary copyrights.

15 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Promote their programs. Penalties 5. Withholding Services. Channel 17 reserves the right to withhold service, facilities, equipment and airtime to any User who does not abide by these guidelines including: Use of facilities for commercial use. Use of equipment for programs that will not appear on Channel 17. Failure to obtain necessary copyrights. Violation of any Channel 17 Policy or Procedure. 5.1 Appeal. A Channel 17 user may appeal a staff decision to withold service. The appeal must be presented in writing within 7 days to the Board of Trustees. Final determinations may be made at the discretion of the Board of Trustees. Limitations on Use of Airtime Amended 10/07 6.0 Scheduling the use of Channel 17 air time and resources shall be the sole responsibility of the Channel 17 staff. Scheduling will be performed on a first-come, first-served basis. Scheduling will be in accordance with the Channel goals, program priorities and the availability of staff, equipment and Channel resources based on the direction of the policy board. 6.1 Election Season Limitations. Any programs or comments (including pre-produced political advertisings) that advocate for or opposing a political candidate..are prohibited during election season. NOTE: This does not preclude the production by Channel 17 of programming which includes the opportunity for all candidates for a particular elective post or proponents of all sides of an issue to appear in a fair and equitable fashion, i.e. Know Your Candidates Forum. See Election Policies, below. 6.1.1 If an individual appears on Channel 17 during election season, outside of an election forum produced by or aired on Channel 17, they may not advertise or comment on behalf of or opposing a particular political candidate. 6.2 Commercial Promotion. Any promotional material concerning product or services presented for the purpose of any solicitation of funds or items of value by other than member municipalities and their departments, or Channel 17 fund raising events is prohibited. 6.2.1 Lotteries & Raffles. Channel 17 allows the airing of results of lotteries, raffles and games of chance which are permitted under Vermont law, the proceeds of which will solely benefit the general fund of a member municipality, provided the airing does not exceed 5 minutes. 6.2.1.1 Proposals for such airing must be presented to the Trustees for prior approval.

16 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM 6.2.1.2 Any information concerning commercial or state run lotteries, gift enterprises or similar schemes are prohibited. 6.3 Prohibited Speech. Any material which constitutes libel, slander, pornography, violation of trademark or copyright, or which might violate any local, state or federal laws. 6.4 Programs Aired on other PEG Channels. Programs that have aired on other local access channels within the past three months will not considered to be a Program Priority and will be scheduled at staff discretion. (See 1.3). Restrictions on Use of Programming (See also Archive Policies, below). 6.5 Duplication of Programs. Viewers may record Channel 17 programs off the air for private and educational use only. Viewers cannot profit by selling or publicly airing programming produced and aired by Channel 17. 6.5.1Permission from the Channel 17 Archives must be obtained before any portion of a program is publicly retransmitted. (See Section 2.6, "Archive Policies"). Responsibilities of Trustees Responsibilities of Trustees 7.1 The responsibilities of the Trustees of the Chittenden County Government Access Channel Trust are outlined in the Trust Agreement (Exhibit xx). 7.1.2 Job Description. The Trustees as a whole has the responsibility for governing the entire organization. The board is responsible for determining channel policy in the following areas: Planning, Finance, Development, Community Relations and Human Resources. Board members share responsibilities in these key areas: 7.1.2.1 Human Resources 7.1.2.1.1 Board membership, which includes recruiting and orienting new board members; training, evaluating and recognizing existing board members; and providing board members with opportunities to grow and develop as leaders. 7.1.2.1.2 Selecting and supporting the Channel Contractor, including reviewing performance regularly and providing ongoing assistance as requested by the Channel Management. 7.1.2.1.3 Volunteer involvement, which includes setting policy regarding how the organization treats, recognizes and celebrates its volunteers. 7.1.2.1.4 Board self-evaluation. 7.1.2.1.5 Personnel policies, which include setting policy regarding salaries, benefits and grievance procedures are established by Channel Management with input from the Board. 7.1.2.2 Planning.

17 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM 7.1.2.2.1 Set and review the organization s mission and goal on an annual basis. 7.1.2.2.2 Plan for the organization s future, on a long-term and short-term basis. 7.1.2.2.3 Decide and plan which projects and programs the organization will provide. 7.1.2.2.4 Evaluate the organization s programs and operations on a regular basis. 7.1.2.3 Finance. 7.1.2.3.1 Work to ensure the financial accountability of the organization. 7.1.2.3.2 Oversee an ongoing process of budget development, approval and review. 7.1.2.3.3 Manage investments the organization possesses. 7.1.2.4 Development. 7.1.2.4.1 Work to ensure adequate resources to achieve the organization s mission and implement the organization s programs and projects. 7.1.2.4.2 Participate in fundraising activities based on the individual s skills and background. 7.1.3.5 Community Relations. 7.1.3.5.1 Work to ensure that the organization s programs and services appropriately address community/constituents needs. 7.1.3.5.2 Promote the organization to the general public, including serving as an emissary of the organization to the community. 7.1.3.5.3 Promote cooperative action with other organizations, including activities and occasions when the organization should take part in coalitions, joint fundraising, etc. 7.1.3.6 Requirements for Board Service. 7.1.3.6.1 A demonstrated interest in the organization s mission and goals. 7.1.3.6.2 Specific experience and/or knowledge in at least one area: Human Resources, Planning, Finance, Development, Community Relations or Operations. 7.1.3.6.3 Representative of a key aspect or segment of the population of the community. 7.1.3.6.4 A willingness to expand knowledge or board responsibilities through orientation and ongoing training. 7.1.3.6.5 A willingness to represent the organization to the community 7.1.3.6.6 Time commitment: Available two to ten hours per month, distributed approximately as follows: 3-4 hours for Trustee Meetings, (preparation and attendance)=, 2-3 hours for Committee Meetings (preparation and attendance), 1-3 hours for Special Requests Annual Evaluations Adopted 6/5/03 7.2.1 Annual Contractor Evaluation. The Channel 17 Trustees shall conduct an annual written evaluation of the contractor in February of each. year The contractor shall provide an annual report to aid the Trustees in their review. The evaluation shall be based on contract compliance, budget management and board support. 7.2.2 Board Evaluation. The Channel 17 Trustees shall conduct an annual board evaluation by April 30th of each year. The written self-evaluation will review board performance in areas including but not limited to planning, policy responsibilities and meeting effectiveness. Investment Policies

18 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Formerly Section 12 - Adopted 12/04 - Amended 11/07, 7/09. 1/10 7.3 Investment Policy. It is the policy of Channel 17 to provide for responsible management of its capital resources and the proper investment strategy that will provide for sufficient daily cash flow demands and meet long term investment objectives. This policy includes all accounts and funds governed by the Channel 17 Government Access Channel Trustees. 7.3.1 Investment Objectives. It is the objective of the Trustees to maintain an investment portfolio of Channel 17 s cash reserves to provide liquidity in order to meet two quarters worth of operating needs, preserve investment principal, and attain a balanced rate of return of income and growth. 7.3.2 Accounts. Channel 17 maintains two primary accounts, a Short Term Operating Account and a Long Term Operating Account. 7.3.3 Short Term Operating Account. Channel 17 will maintain, to the extent possible, six months of operating reserve funds in a "short term operating account" to support Channel 17's quarterly operating and capital needs, consistent with low risk exposure. The account will enable fixed monthly transfers, from/ to investment principal as needed. Permissible investments include: governmetn issued bonds and securities, its agencies and instrumentalities, Certificates of Deposit and Money Markets. 7.3.4 Long Term Operating Account. Channel 17 will maintain funds in a "long term operating account" with the objective of providing growth ahead of inflation and preserving investment principal while maximizing earnings consistent with low risk exposure. This account will include a portfolio of investments that support Channel 17's long term operating and capital needs. Permissible investments inlcude U.S, globa and international cap equity, fixed income and balanced mutual funds that have a consistent 4 and 5 star Monringstar rankings. Dividends shall be re-invested. 7.3.5 Account Review. The Treasurer and Financial Adviser will review the Short and Long Term Operating Accounts on a regular basis and report to the Trustees with recommendations and actions taken on behalf of the Channel 17 Trust. The Short Term Operating Account shall be reviewed quarterly in order to accomodate cash needs for the pending quarter. The Long Term Operating Account shall be reviewed annually. At that time, portfolio return, performance in relation to the markets, asset allocation and investments will be reviewed, evaluated in light of objectives and other suitable benchmarks. The Treasurer will report back to the Trustees at the following meeting. 7.3.6 Investment Reporting. Channel 17's custodial agent shall provide monthly statements of account showing beginning and ending balances, portfolio holdings, income, gains and losses, and transactions and transaction fees charged. It shall be part of the board s monthly financial review. 7.3.7 Trustee Reporting. Channel 17's Treasurer will report monthly and any other time Trustees request on compliance with these policies. This is considered to be part of Board self Evaluation and Annual Report. (Section 7.2). 7.3.8 Authorized Agents. Channel 17 authorized agents include the Board of Trustees

19 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM Chair and Treasurer. 7.3.9 Current Custodial Institution. Channel 17's current custodial institution is UBS Financial Services. Attendance Policies 7.4 Purpose. This policy is intended to support full contribution of all board members. It recognizes the value that full board participation plays in discussion and deliberation of board matters. It also recognizes the contributions brought to the table from full representation by member communities. All board members shall receive a copy of this official policy. The policy is reviewed once a year and maintained in each Trustee s Board Manual. The policy has been reviewed and authorized by the board (see signature and date below). 7.4.1 Definition of a Board Attendance Problem. A board attendance problem exists with any of the following conditions: 7.4.1.1 The member has two un-notified absences in a row ( un-notified means the member did not email the entire board or call a reasonable contact in the organization before the meeting to indicate their anticipated absence); 7.4.1.2 The member has three notified absences in a row; 7.4.1.3 The member misses one third of the total number of board meetings in a twelve-month period; 7.4.2 Response to a Board Attendance Problem. If a Trustee attendance problem exists, the Trustee President will promptly contact the Trustee to discuss the problem. The Trustee's response will be promptly shared with the entire board at the next board meeting. At that meeting, the Trustees will decide what actions to take regarding the Trustee's continued membership on the board. If the Trustees determine that further action is necessary, the Chair will contact the municipal representative of the appropriate body to request action be taken prior to the next Trustees' meeting. Amending Operating Policies 7.5 Amending Operating Policies. Channel 17 operating plan and policies may be amended by a quorum of the Channel 17 Board of Trustees (four of the seven members). The Trustees may choose to submit amendments to the public for comment. s. 7.5.1 Amendments to the Operating Plan and Policies will be identified by the date of ratification. 7.5.2 Channel 17 staff and users are subject to the most recent amendments to the to the Operating Plan and Policies. Definitions Access channel. A channel made available by an operator that is used to cablecast noncommercial programming created or acquired for public, educational, or governmental purposes pursuant to this Rule. Access channels are sometimes referred

20 of 21 06/12/2012 04:39 PM to as public, educational, and government channels, or "PEG"channels. Access management organization, or AMO. A nonprofit entity apart from the cable television operator designated to receive PEG access support through the cable operator and contracted to manage public, educational, and governmental access channels and facilities for non-commercial purposes. Advertising. Selling or marketing of a product or service for monetary gain. Commercial use. Any wholesale, retail, or service business activity primarily intended for or directed toward commercial advantage or private monetary compensation. Governmental access channel. An access channel designated for noncommercial civic purposes. Local presentation. request by an institution or individual living or working within the cable service area to transmit PEG content using cable channels or capacity, whether or not that PEG content was produced using PEG access facilities. Local use. non-commercial use of PEG channels and capacity by residents of the State overmont, including schools and not-for-profit educational institutions, and local and state governments or agencies thereof. PEG. Public, educational, governmental. PEG content. Any noncommercial voice, video, or information made available by members of the public, educational institutions, local or state government, or an AMO and distributed through PEG channels or cable system capacity set aside for such purposes. PEG facilities. includes equipment and studio space necessary for community members to produce, post-produce and distribute any PEG content from the cable company head end and remote origination sites to the system's cable subscribers. Programming video programs. Live video transmissions and information submitted for inclusion on electronic bulletin boards or web site operated by Channel 17. Remote origination site. A source of PEG content that is physically some distance from, but configured to transmit signal to, the cable company headend for distribution over the cable system. Forms Archive Request Duplication Services Supporting Documents History and Regulatory Authority to Exist