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Community Access Television
Statement of Policies
The mission of Community Access Television (CAT) is to make available a medium of
communication that provides freedom of expression and community awareness for all
local citizens.
CAT is a television cablecast and teaching service, which is contracted with the City of
Fayetteville. It is the foremost responsibility of CAT to meet the standards as outlined in
the City Contract. These policies serve as the standards of practice that are required in
the operations of the CAT station.
CAT is responsible for:
Scheduling and teaching of video production and telecommunications workshops
for local citizens.
Promoting the use of the Public Access Channel.
Scheduling of programs on the Public Access Channel.
Cablecasting of programs on the Public Access Channel.
Reporting the public access channel activities to the Cable Administrator, the
Telecommunications Board and the City of Fayetteville.
CAT is firmly committed to implementing these policies, yet unforeseen circumstances
may arise that might justify an exception. Such an exception may be granted by the CAT
Manager based on compelling reasons.
In the event of a conflict between any part of the policies herein and either the by-laws of
CAT or the contract between the City and CAT, the latter documents shall prevail.
CONTENTS
I. WORKSHOPS, CERTIFICATION, PRODUCER’S CARD 4
A. ORIENTATION - 4
B. WORKSHOPS – 4
C. CERTIFICATION 4
D. PRODUCER’S CARD 4
E. PRODUCER’S PRIVILEGES 4
F. RENEWAL OF PRODUCER’S CARD 4
G. LAPSED PRODUCER’S CARD 4
H. INACTIVE PRODUCERS 4
I. FEE WAIVERS 4
II. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES USE 5
A. VIDEO EQUIPMENT 5
B. PRODUCER’S LIABILITY 6
C. INTERNET WORKSTATION 6
D. DUBBING OF VIDEO TAPES 7
III. VIDEO PROGRAMMING 8
A. SOURCES OF PROGRAMS 8
B. PROGRAM CONTENT 8
C. SUBMITTING A PROGRAM 9
D. SCHEDULING OF PROGRAMS 10
E. STUDIO PRODUCTIONS 12
F. TECHNICAL STANDARDS 12
G. CAT STAFF PRODUCTIONS 13
IV. COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD 13
A. PURPOSE 13
B. PARTICIPANTS 13
C. MESSAGE CONTENT 14
V. UNDERWRITING 14
A. GENERAL UNDERWRITING 14
B. SPECIFIC UNDERWRITING 14
C. GUIDELINES FOR UNDERWRITING CREDITS 15
VI. REPORTING 15
A. FORMS 15
B. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION 16
VII. ABUSE OF PRIVILEGES AND COMPLAINTS 16
A. OVERSIGHT BY STAFF 16
B. SEXUAL HARASSMENT 16
C. VIOLATION OF POLICIES 17
D. COURSE OF ACTION 18
E. COMPLAINT AND APPEAL BY USER 18
VIII. PERSONNEL POLICY 19
A. EXPECTATIONS FOR STAFF 19
B. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT 19
C. NEPOTISM 19
D. SIMULTANEOUS BOARD AND STAFF POSITIONS 19
E. POLITICALLY NEUTRAL ATMOSPHERE 20
F. USE OF EQUIPMENT BY STAFF 20
G. PROPERTY POLICY 20
H. HOLIDAYS 20
I. VACATION 20
J. SICK LEAVE 21
K. PERSONAL LEAVE 21
L. FUNERAL LEAVE 21
M. RESIGNATION 21
N. OVERTIME 21
O. PART-TIME EMPLOYEES 21
P. REIMBURSEMENT FOR TRAVEL 22
Q. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS 22
R. TERMINATION 22
S. ADVERSE ACTIONS 22
T. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 23
IX. FINANCES AND MANAGEMENT 24
A. STAFF REQUIREMENTS 24
B. DONATIONS AND FEES 24
C. USER FEES 24
D. EXPENDITURE AUTHORIZATION 24
E. ADDITIONAL INCOME 24
X. DEFINITIONS 24
A. CAT MANAGER 24
B. ADVERTISING 25
C. CABLE ADMINISTRATOR 25
D. CABLECASTING 25
E. CAT INDEPENDENT PRODUCER 25
F. COMMERCIAL 25
G. LOCAL CITIZEN 25
H. LOCALLY PRODUCED 25
I. NEW PROGRAM 25
J. PEG CENTER 25
K. REPLAY 25
L. SERIES 26
M. UNDERWRITING 26
I. WORKSHOPS, CERTIFICATION, PRODUCER’S CARD
A. ORIENTATION -
Orientation is arranged through CAT staff, is a prerequisite to all video production
workshops, and is free.
B. WORKSHOPS –
Training is offered in studio, field and editing workshops.
C. CERTIFICATION
To become certified on a particular piece of equipment, a person must be trained by
CAT staff (or an entity approved by CAT) demonstrate proficiency in the use of that
equipment, and pay the appropriate fee.
D. PRODUCER’S CARD
CAT will issue a Producer’s Card to a person who has been certified in at least one of
the areas - studio, field, editing - has produced at least one cablecast quality program
for CAT and has paid the appropriate fee.
E. PRODUCER’S PRIVILEGES
A CAT independent producer may use the equipment on which he/she has been
certified and without charge.
F. RENEWAL OF PRODUCER’S CARD
Cat will send a reminder to each producer when his/her annual card is about to expire.
To be eligible for renewal a producer must have worked on at least one program
(shown on CAT) prior to the expiration date of the card. The card will then be renewed
for one year upon receipt of the appropriate fee.
G. LAPSED PRODUCER’S CARD
A producer who allowed his/her card to lapse may renew by paying the annual producer
fee, provided the lapsed time is less than one year. If the lapsed time is one year or
more, or if the producer has not worked on a program during the year, that person may
be asked to repeat the certification process.
H. INACTIVE PRODUCERS
Producers who have not worked on a program for one year or more may be required to
repeat the certification process.
I. FEE WAIVERS
Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request.
II. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES USE
A. VIDEO EQUIPMENT
1. CHECKING EQUIPMENT OUT/IN
Field equipment must be checked out and checked in during regular CAT hours
following prescribed CAT procedures.
2. TIME LIMITS
Unless otherwise approved, equipment must be returned within 24 hours or the next
CAT business day.
3. AREA LIMITS
Equipment may not be taken out of Northwest Arkansas (Washington, Benton, Carroll
and Madison Counties) unless special arrangements have been made with the CAT
Manager.
4. PURPOSE OF USAGE
Equipment may not be used for personal profit or in such a manner as to be in
competition with commercial enterprises. Use of facilities and equipment must result
in programming that is intended and made available for presentation on CAT.
5. CERTIFIED USE
Persons may reserve and use only the equipment for which they have been certified.
6. RESERVATIONS
Producers must reserve equipment and facility use through the CAT staff.
7. CANCELLATIONS
Producers must give a cancellation notice to the CAT staff at least 24 hours in advance.
8. LATE ARRIVAL
Producers who are more than 20 minutes late for their reservation, without notice, will
relinquish their reservation if there is another producer wishing to use that equipment.
9. LATE RETURN
A producer who returns checked-out equipment more than 20 minutes into the time
another had requested the equipment, may jeopardize his/her producer’s privileges.
10. EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTION
Producers are responsible for determining that the equipment is in working condition
when they arrive to use it or to check it out. Any malfunctions or damage should be
reported within 24 hours on the appropriate form.
11. UNCERTIFIED USE
Producers must not allow the use of equipment by anyone not certified on that
equipment. Producer’s privileges may be revoked for violation of this policy.
12. HOUSEKEEPING
All equipment must be returned to its proper place and facilities must be left clean and
orderly.
B. PRODUCER’S LIABILITY
1. ORDINARY WEAR AND TEAR
If equipment failure is due to ordinary wear and tear, CAT will request that the City repair
the equipment promptly.
2. ACCIDENT, MISHANDLING, NEGLECT
If equipment fails due to an accident, mishandling, or neglect, liability for the repair or
replacement rests with the person who signed for the equipment. The liability includes
the cost of replacing equipment stolen while it is checked out.
3. UNDERAGE USERS
Any certified user under the age of 18 must have on file a parent responsibility
statement before using equipment or facilities. Parents or legal guardians signing the
form accept full financial responsibility for equipment used by the minor, as specified in
#2 above.
C. INTERNET WORKSTATION
1. CHILDREN
Children may use the Internet, but only after their parents or guardians have given
permission, read and signed the Producer’s Application.
2. DISCUSSION GROUPS
There is no access for chat, news or discussion groups.
3. PROHIBITIONS
Any illegal or commercial activities are prohibited.
4. RESPONSIBILITY
CAT assumes no responsibility for information found on the Internet. Parents of
children under 18 must sign a waiver of responsibility.
5. MONITORING
CAT staff is not in a position to monitor and/or supervise children’s use of the Internet.
Users will observe a time limit on computer use.
6. FOOD/DRINK
No food or drink is allowed at the computer.
7. PRINTING
Users may be charged a fee for any printouts from the Internet. First two pages are free;
a charge may be assessed for each copy thereafter.
8. OUTSIDE SOFTWARE
No third party software or games will be installed by the user.
D. DUBBING OF VIDEO TAPES
1. COPIES
Access equipment may not be used by producers to make copies of any video tapes,
except that producers may make one master copy and one back-up copy of their own
program to keep, and one library copy to be submitted to CAT for cablecasting.
2. EXCEPTIONS
Exceptions may be made by the CAT Manager for submissions to contests or other
access centers, as an income producing activity for CAT, or for other reasons deemed
justifiable by the CAT Manager.
3. ALTERNATIVES
Producers are encouraged to videotape their programs from the cable as they are
being cablecast or to use commercially available equipment for copying.
III. VIDEO PROGRAMMING
A. SOURCES OF PROGRAMS
1. INDEPENDENT CAT PRODUCERS
Programs made by Independent CAT producers whether or not they use CAT facilities.
2. LOCAL CITIZENS
Programs made by local citizens who are not Independent CAT Producers.
3. IMPORTED PROGRAMS
Programs made outside the Fayetteville cable service area and provided by local
citizens. The person(s) who sponsored this program and the source of the program
must be identified through a sponsor-produced introduction which plays immediately
before the program or message board announcement..
4. CAT PRODUCED SHOWS
Programs produced by CAT for the purpose of allowing local citizens to perform or
express their views.
5. MESSAGE BOARD
Notices submitted by citizens about current events.
6. CAT PROMOTION
Media pieces and programs that directly promote the services of CAT and/or educate
viewers about those services.
B. PROGRAM CONTENT
1. CENSORSHIP
CAT does not censor the content of the programs provided.
2. PROGRAM FORMAT
Programs must follow the format and length guidelines of the producer class
standards.
3. SCREENING
Producers must fill out the Cablecast Request Form completely and accurately. This
includes checking the appropriate box on the form to indicate shows that may require
viewer discretion. Programs requiring viewer discretion will be played after midnight.
4. COMMERCIALS
CAT does not cablecast commercials nor permit advertising on programs. If a program
has advertising included, the producer may delete or amend that part of the program or
the entire program will be cancelled. These prohibitions do not apply to raising money
for CAT or for the fundraising partnerships with other non-profit organizations.
5. POLITICAL
For 72 hours before the polls close for any public election in the Fayetteville cable
service area, no live programs or taped programs that have not been previously shown
will be cablecast.
6. INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT
Any program that the cablecaster determines to be inappropriate for the regular hours
of cablecasting or in violation of CAT’s programming policies will be interrupted and/or
not shown.
C. SUBMITTING A PROGRAM
1. CABLECAST REQUEST FORM (CRF)
Anyone submitting a program for cablecasting must submit a CRF before the program
is scheduled. The form includes statements assigning responsibility for the content of
the program to the producer or provider. The form must be completed and signed by
the program provider.
a) Interruption Authorization
The CRF contains the following statement: “I hereby authorize CAT to interrupt my live or
taped program if the cablecaster determines that my program or any part of my
program is not appropriate for the regular hours of cablecasting or it violates CAT’s
programming policies or procedures.”
b) Channel Use Agreement
The CRF contains the following agreement: “As the producer or provider of the program
submitted to CAT for cablecasting over the Fayetteville cable system, I hereby promise
to indemnify and hold harmless CAT, its staff, management and Board of Directors, the
City of Fayetteville, and cable operator of Fayetteville for any legal actions resulting from
the cablecasting of this program including but without limitation to:
o Any violation of state, federal or local laws relating to obscenity.
o Libelous or slanderous statements.
o Unauthorized invasion of privacy.
o Materials protected by U.S. laws.
o Materials contrary to local, federal and state laws, regulations, procedures and
policies.
2. CUEING INSTRUCTIONS
Clear cueing instructions must be included on the tape. A minimum of 5 seconds
black leader length must be at the beginning and the end of any locally produced tape.
3. PROGRAM PREPARATION
The producer of the program is responsible for having the program ready on time. Post-
production work, such as countdowns and logos, and having the tape(s) properly
labeled, is the responsibility of the producer.
4. TAPE LOSS OR DAMAGE
Tapes not added to the CAT library and left at the access center longer than 2 months
are subject to being reused or discarded.
D. SCHEDULING OF PROGRAMS
1. SCHEDULING PRIORITIES -
a) Series will each receive a promotable “flagship” time slot, which will not be pre-
empted unless that spot is requested for a “timely program.
b) FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED
Programs will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis with the following
provisions.
c) TIMELY PROGRAMS
Every effort will be made to provide timely cablecasting for programs of immediate
interest.
d) SCHEDULING CONFLICTS
Regardless of when a cablecast was submitted, when there is a conflict for certain
times in the schedule, programs will be scheduled with the following preference:
(i) Regular scheduled series;
(ii) Premiere showing of a new locally produced show;
(iii) Subsequent showing of a new locally produced show;
(iv) Premiere showing of a new imported show;
(v) CAT Promotion;
(vi) Requested replay;
(vii) Other programming.
2. OTHER SCHEDULING POLICIES -
a) (a) FREQUENCY OF CABLECASTING
Upon request, programs may be shown as frequently as the following:
(i) Weekly series programs: 5 times a week
(ii) Bi-weekly series programs: 3 times per week for 2 weeks
(iii) Monthly series programs: 1 time per week for 4 weeks
(iv) New locally produced programs: 5 times per week for 2 weeks.
(v) New imported programs: up to 3 times per week for one week
(vi) Replays of previously shown programs: 3 times per week for one week
(vii) Short Takes or CAT promotions: 5 times per day.
b) IMPORTED PROGRAMS
One program per requester per week will be allowed for imported programming.
c) TAPE LIBRARY
Only locally produced programs may be submitted for the tape library.
d) PROGRAMS NOT SUPPLIED
If the producer fails to provide a scheduled program the message board may be
substituted, or if the holder of a regular time slot does not provide another of the series,
the previous series program may be replayed.
3. SERIES
a) EARNING A SERIES SLOT
Programs may earn regular time slots by the submission of five consecutive new
programs turned in on time. A series may be weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.
b) LOCALLY PRODUCED SERIES
When scheduling demands it, the reservation of regular time slots may be limited in the
following ways:
(i) The time slots may be reviewed every three months.
(ii) Individual producers or organizations holding more than one regular weekly time
slot for locally produced programming may be required to give up one or more slots to
allow other producers to schedule programs. The producer to be pre-empted first will
be the one holding the most time in regular time slots for the longest time.
c) IMPORTED SERIES
The provider of an imported program series may hold a regular time slot until a
producer of a local program series requests that slot. The change will be made at the
first available scheduling time, and the provider of the imported programs will be
offered another time slot if available.
d) LOSS OF SERIES SLOT
Two consecutive failures to supply new programs on time (unless prior arrangements
were made with CAT), or two failures to use reserved studio equipment (unless a 24
hour cancellation notice were given) may result in loss of series time slots.
E. STUDIO PRODUCTIONS
1. SCHEDULING STUDIO TIME
Studio programs must be presented during scheduled staff hours. If the program is to
be produced live, studio time must be requested at least two weeks before
cablecasting.
2. CABLECAST REQUEST FORM
The producer must complete a Cablecast Request Form for each program in the
series of live or taped shows.
3. NEW PRODUCERS
Producers who have never produced a studio production at CAT must arrange a pre-
production meeting with the CAT Manager before their first show. They must also have
served on the crew of at least two productions in the CAT studio.
4. PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
The producer or host of the show must advise guests and other talent to comply with all
CAT policies, especially restrictions on advertising and direct appeals for funds.
F. TECHNICAL STANDARDS
1. A/V AND CONTROL TRACKS
Video tapes must have a clear audio and video signal with an unbroken control track
(no glitches in the body of the program).
2. FORMAT
Programs must be submitted on a format that permits CAT to cablecast and must be
recorded at Standard Play speed.
3. VIDEOTAPE QUALITY
Only approved brand video tapes may be used.
G. CAT STAFF PRODUCTIONS
1. SHORT TAKES
The staff provides a regular video taping time each week for citizens who wish to take
up to five minutes of channel time to announce events, state opinions or perform.
Those using this free service must sign in upon arrival.
2. CONTRACT PRODUCTIONS
An individual, non-profit organization or for-profit organization may hire the CAT staff to
produce a program for use on the access channel.
3. CAT PROMOTION
CAT produces promotions and programs about CAT and public access television.
4. LONG TAKES & LIVE TALK
CAT staff provides time on a first come first served basis for local citizens to do a show
up to one hour in length. By appointment, opportunities are provided for people in which
they may perform before a camera, and be cablecast without being trained as a CAT
Producer.
IV. COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD
A. PURPOSE
The Community Message Board provides an electronic message service for
announcements of interest to Fayetteville cable viewers and provides an avenue of
promotion for CAT.
B. PARTICIPANTS
Local citizens, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations may post
messages.
C. MESSAGE CONTENT
1. SUBJECT MATTER
Messages are restricted to non-profit events or services.
2. COMMERCIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements of a commercial nature or on behalf of a for-profit business or service
are not allowed on the CAT Message Board. However, commercial businesses or
services may be mentioned as sponsors of a non-profit event.
3. PRICES
Specific information about prices or admission charges will be omitted from
announcements; however, statements such as “admission charged” are acceptable.
4. EDITING
The CAT staff or volunteers who post the messages reserve the right to edit messages
for length, style and conformance to policy.
5. MULTIPLE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements that simply restate information already submitted that week will not be
used. Some events may have multiple activities and, thus, may justify several individual
announcements. For example, individual events for Autumn Fest activities might each
be given a separate message. In this case each event must be submitted on a
separate Message Board Form.
V. UNDERWRITING
A. GENERAL UNDERWRITING
Organizations, companies or individuals which support the general operation of CAT
shall be given mention of support at the end of CAT produced programs. These
underwriting credits may be up to 15 seconds duration, may be shown up to 15 times
during a week and must be in compliance with the guidelines below.
B. SPECIFIC UNDERWRITING
Organizations, companies or individuals may underwrite the production of a particular
program, whether made by the CAT staff or by Independent Producers. These
underwriting credits may be up to 15 seconds duration, shall be shown at the end of
the given program throughout the program's initial two week schedule and must be in
compliance with the guidelines below. A producer may negotiate with the underwriter
for production expenses above the underwriting fee paid to CAT provided that such
arrangements are pre-approved by CAT.
C. GUIDELINES FOR UNDERWRITING CREDITS
1.
An underwriter may be recognized on a program by a statement such as “This program
was brought to you in part by _____” or “Community Access Television is supported in
part by contributions from _____”.
2.
A underwriting credit may include name, location, telephone number, website URL,
email address, hours of operation and a logo.
3.
Products and/or services may be listed only to describe the type of business or
organization. Images of products/services may not appear in the underwriting credit.
4.
Underwriting credits may not include advertising.
5.
No single underwriting credit may exceed 15 seconds per program; a series of
underwriting credits for multiple underwriters may not exceed 60 seconds per program.
6.
Underwriters may not influence content of any program.
7.
A fee schedule for underwriting is available at CAT.
VI. REPORTING
A. FORMS
1. CABLECAST REQUEST FORMS (CRF)
Each person who would like to cablecast on CAT must submit a CRF. These forms are
used as the bases for tracking the program types, sources, and scheduling practices at
CAT.
2. PAPER FORMS
Paper forms may be replaced by computer entries.
B. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION
1. REGULAR REPORTS
CAT staff prepares monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports that are submitted to the CAT
Board, the Cable Administrator, and the Telecommunications Board. The reports
include but are not limited to finances, the number of programs, the program
categories, the program titles, sources and types of programs, the number of times
each is played, the number of current and new producers, and the number of classes.
2. COMPLAINT REPORTS
A copy of all complaints to CAT and responses to those complaints will be delivered to
the CAT Board, the Cable Administrator, and the Telecommunications Board.
3. 3. ADDITIONAL REPORTS
Other reports may be requested by the CAT Board, the Cable Administrator, and the
Telecommunications Board.
VII. ABUSE OF PRIVILEGES AND COMPLAINTS
A. OVERSIGHT BY STAFF
1. OBSERVATION
CAT staff may observe any use of the facility, equipment, personnel and the video tape
content to determine proper use of access resources.
B. SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Whereas CAT is a public facility which brings together many people in close working
proximity and different social and business relationships; and therefore it is the
responsibility of all to promote a safe and pleasant working environment; be it known by
all that sexual harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
DEFINED -
1. Between employer and employee it is sexual harassment if sexual favors are
demanded as a condition of promotion or continued employment.
2. Between social/business equals (includes volunteers and producers, and all
relations between staff members, volunteers and producers) sexual harassment is the
continuation of innuendoes, jokes, personal remarks and /or touching after one
instance in which the recipient has protested that the behavior is offensive; or any other
such pattern of behavior which promotes or creates an uncomfortable working
environment for one or more other people.
PROCEDURES -
1. When possible, confront the harasser and persuade him/her to stop.
2. If #1 is not possible or is ineffective, complain in writing, as soon as possible directly
to the CAT Manager or to a Board Member.
3. A thorough investigation will be conducted in a timely manner by the CAT Manager to
determine all the facts and take action if necessary.
PENALTIES -
1. After the investigation is completed, anyone about whom a complaint has been
received shall be notified by the CAT Manager of the complaint, with warning that
his/her behavior has been perceived as harassment, and that such behavior must stop.
2. If the first warning is ineffective, station use privileges and/or employment will be
suspended. Privileges for a producer will be revoked for 30 days. An employee will be
suspended for three days.
3. If the second penalty is ineffective, and/or another complaint is verified upon
investigation, station privileges and/or employment will be revoked permanently and/or
employment will be terminated. This person will be ineligible for rehire.
4. Anyone who feels that he/she has been unjustly accused or penalized may submit
an appeal, in writing, directly to the Board of CAT two weeks prior to the next Board
Meeting.
C. VIOLATION OF POLICIES
An independent CAT producer may be sanctioned under any of the following
circumstances:
1. Losing, mishandling or damaging equipment without acceptance of liability.
2. Altering, repairing or taking apart any CAT equipment or video tape.
3. Using equipment for purposes other than those stated by the producer.
4. Allowing unauthorized use of equipment or violations of facility regulations.
5. Stealing.
6. Misrepresenting oneself to the public on behalf of CAT.
7. Using copyrighted material illegally.
8. Using liquor or tobacco or carrying firearms within the CAT facility.
9. Violating any CAT policy or Procedures for Programming.
D. COURSE OF ACTION
1. NOTIFICATION
The staff will give notification of a policy violation to the user and report the incident in
writing to the CAT Manager.
2. ACTION
The CAT Manager may, depending on the severity and frequency of the abuse:
a) Discuss the problem and resolve it with user and staff.
b) Suspend the use of equipment or CAT facilities for a specific time.
c) Suspend the use of CAT facilities for an indefinite time.
d) Refer the problem to the Board of Directors.
e) Notify the proper legal authorities.
E. COMPLAINT AND APPEAL BY USER
1. INFORMAL COMPLAINT
A user who feels he/she is being treated unfairly under these guidelines or who has a
complaint about the operation of CAT is encouraged to discuss the matter informally
with the CAT Manager.
2. FORMAL COMPLAINT
The user may file a formal complaint by submitting a written statement to the CAT
Manager who will respond in writing within two weeks.
3. APPEAL TO BOARD
If the user is not satisfied with the response, he/she may appeal by delivering a written
statement to the president of the CAT Board of Directors or the president’s
representative. If submitted at least 10 working days before the next regular board
meeting, the appeal will be heard at that meeting. Otherwise the board may choose to
hear the appeal at the following regular meeting. The board will respond in writing.
4. APPEAL TO CABLE ADMINISTRATOR
A user who wishes to appeal further may submit a written complaint to the Cable
Administrator.
VIII. PERSONNEL POLICY
A. EXPECTATIONS FOR STAFF
1. Familiarity with CAT policies and procedures.
2. Understanding the interdependence of staff operations and a willingness to work
cooperatively with other staff, including help in learning a new phase of the operation if
necessary.
3. Sensitivity to the public image of CAT in personnel appearance, behavior, and
maintenance of the facility.
4. Respecting the politically neutral position of CAT.
5. Reporting on time for work, and contacting CAT if unable to meet this obligation.
Notifying CAT how to be reached during an absence.
6. Requesting in advance and receiving approval when one plans to be absent for
annual leave, unpaid leave, or for any other reason. Taking responsibility for helping
staff plan to cover needs during one's absence.
7. Making sure that one's assignments fill the designated number of hours of work
per week, and keeping an accurate time sheet of hours worked, sick, or on leave.
8. Willingness to fill in for other staff in an emergency.
9. Maintaining accurate records and reports as required for the job assigned.
10. Attending staff meetings when scheduled or called.
11. Following directions of the CAT Manager.
B. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
CAT is an equal opportunity employer. Discrimination based on race, color, national
origin, religion, age, physical handicap or sex is prohibited in personnel matters
including but not limited to hiring, promotion, transfer, termination, training, pay and
benefits.
C. NEPOTISM
No person shall be employed at CAT who is related by blood, marriage or cohabitation
to another CAT employee or board member.
D. SIMULTANEOUS BOARD AND STAFF POSITIONS
Because of inherent conflict of interest, members of the CAT staff may not serve on the
board of directors.
E. POLITICALLY NEUTRAL ATMOSPHERE
An employee may not engage in any political activity while at work. If an employee
seeks elected office, he/she must resign from public access employment.
F. USE OF EQUIPMENT BY STAFF
CAT staff members who have been certified as producers will be encouraged to
produce programming for CAT during work hours with the approval of the CAT Manager,
provided this activity does not interfere with their individual job responsibilities.
Staff producers must provide videotape for their own productions and use the facility
and equipment according to standard policy.
G. PROPERTY POLICY
Employees who may be issued various pieces of equipment, keys, etc. belonging to
the access facility will be held responsible for such property.
H. HOLIDAYS
Full-time employees will observe the same holiday schedule as the City of Fayetteville.
However, if cablecasting continues through holidays, it may be necessary for at least
one employee to work on those days. The employee(s) scheduled for holiday work will
be allowed to schedule one paid day off at another time for each holiday worked.
I. VACATION
Full-time employees are eligible for paid vacation depending upon their length of
service:
5 days (40 hours) after 1 year's employment
10 days (80 hours) after 2 years' employment
15 days (120 hours) after 10 years' employment
Vacation time may be accumulated up to 20 days (160 hours). Any accumulated days
above 20 (160 hours) are forfeited. Each employee is encouraged to take one week's
vacation each year. However, no more than two consecutive weeks of vacation may be
taken at any one time except with approval of the Personnel Committee of the Board of
Directors. The CAT Manager is responsible for scheduling annual vacations for times
agreeable to the employee. On termination of employment employees will receive pay
for accumulated vacation time, not to exceed 10 (80 hours) days, and at the pay scale in
effect when vacation time was accrued.
Employees who have accrued time above this 20 day (160 hours) limit prior to the
changing of this policy are still entitled to the time they have accrued and will not lose
that time. However, any time accrued under the former policy above the limit of 10 days
(80 hours) cannot be cashed out.
J. SICK LEAVE
Full-time employees will accrue sick leave time at the rate of one day for each calendar
month of employment. Sick leave with pay may be used for personal illness, or for
providing care to an ill family member living in the same household, or for the birth or
adoption of a child. No more than 12 days of sick leave may be accumulated. After
accumulated sick leave has been used, accumulated vacation time may be used.
Employees will not be compensated for sick leave at termination.
K. PERSONAL LEAVE
Employees may take personal leave with the approval of the CAT Manager. However
they should schedule such leave so as to disrupt job performance as little as possible.
Such time away from work must be taken as vacation or sick leave.
L. FUNERAL LEAVE
Funeral leave may be granted to a maximum of three days with pay to make
arrangements for and to attend the funeral of a member of an employee's immediate
family. The time off may be charged to either accrued vacation or sick leave at the
employee's discretion.
M. RESIGNATION
Staff who are resigning are expected to give two weeks written notice to the CAT
Manager, who will notify the Board of Directors. If the CAT Manager is resigning, he/she
will notify the Board of Directors.
N. OVERTIME
Federal law restricts regular paid work to 40 hours per week. If an employee works over
8 hours per day, he/she should reduce his/her work schedule for the week with
approval of the CAT Manager to compensate for the extra time. Compensation time
('comp time') must be used before the end of the next pay period following its accrual.
O. PART-TIME EMPLOYEES
Part-time employees, those who work 30 hours a week or less, are expected to work
the same hours of work per day as full-time staff unless directed otherwise by the CAT
Manager. Part time employees receive sick leave and vacation at exactly one-half the
rate of full-time employees.
P. REIMBURSEMENT FOR TRAVEL
If employees are required to use their own vehicles to carry out an assigned task, they
may be reimbursed for documented mileage at a rate agreed upon by the employee
and CAT Manager. This rate will not exceed the current cents/mile prescribed by the
IRS, and, in the case of great distances, the total reimbursement will not exceed the
current available discount round-trip airfare to the destination. Expenses for travel by an
employee to conferences or other events may be reimbursed provided prior approval
has been received. Reimbursement will occur only after the original receipts are
submitted to the CAT Manager or representative. Only approved expenses will be
reimbursed. In some cases the employees may have their expenses paid in advance,
such as airfare and room. This may be done at the discretion of the Manager, but will
not preclude the employee's production of required receipts, within 10 working days
from date of return to work. If advance payment is made for empl oyees, and they fail to
engage in the indicated travel, they will be required to repay CAT the amount advanced.
Q. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS
The purpose of evaluations is to promote positive, constructive growth for the staff and
for the organization.
The CAT Manager will be evaluated by the Personnel Committee of the Board of
Directors at least once a year, and the evaluation will be reviewed by the board. The
Committee may, but is not required to seek comment from other staff members, board
members, producers, or the public. A written report will be prepared for the Manager's
personnel file and discussed with the Manager. The Manager may attach comments
and will sign the report.
The CAT Manager will similarly evaluate all staff at least once a year. The Personnel
Committee will review all evaluations of the staff, except for new employees (who will
be evaluated after the first three months of employment), and report to the Board of
Directors.
R. TERMINATION
An employee may be terminated at will.
S. ADVERSE ACTIONS
Employees who fail to follow CAT policies and procedures will be encouraged in a
positive manner to change their behavior.
If a member of the staff or the Board or a producer feels that an employee is not
following the policies or procedures, he or she will provide specific information to the
CAT Manager if the matter concerns a staff employee; or to the Personnel Committee of
the Board if it concerns the CAT Manager. The following steps may be taken:
1. Step One, First Meeting:
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee, as appropriate, will meet with the
employee to informally discuss and define the problem. The employee may say
whether he or she desires to: a. remain in the position, making needed changes, b.
resign and seek employment elsewhere, c. provide another appropriate alternative. The
employee and the CAT Manager (or the Personnel Committee) will seek an agreement
on the most desirable approach to solving the problem and set a time for re-evaluation,
in about two weeks. A written record of the meeting will be placed in the employee's
personnel file and a copy given to the employee.
2. Step Two, Second Meeting:
If the problem appears to have been solved or greatly improved, a second meeting may
not be necessary. Otherwise a second meeting will be held for a re-evaluation and re-
definition. Either party to the discussion may ask that a third party be present. An effort
will be made again to seek a solution to the problem if possible. A written record of the
second meeting will placed in the employee's personnel file and a copy given to the
employee.
3. Punitive Actions:
The CAT Manager/Personnel Committee may wish to take some punitive action after
the second meeting to change the employee's behavior. These are the options:
a) written warning, with a copy to be placed in the employee's personnel file.
b) probation of one month. (Two periods of probation in one year or three in 24
months will result in termination.)
c) one to three days' suspension without pay. (Two suspensions in one year will
result in termination.)
d) termination of employment.
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee will document in writing any such action
taken for the employee's personnel file. A copy will be given to the employee.
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee may resort to immediate termination of
employment for egregious misbehavior, such as criminal acts, etc. of an employee,
without taking steps one and two above.
T. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Each employee will be asked to sign the following statement:
"I have read and I understand the general terms and conditions of employment
explained in the Personnel and General Policies of Community Access Television of
Fayetteville."
IX. FINANCES AND MANAGEMENT
A. STAFF REQUIREMENTS
The CAT staff will be expected to:
1. Maintain a balanced budget.
2. Submit a financial report for monthly review by the Board of Directors; and a yearly
report by a CPA, either in review or audit.
B. DONATIONS AND FEES
Donations and fees paid to CAT are nonrefundable. Any donor desiring contributed
funds to be used for a specific purpose, other than routine operations, shall have an
agreement with CAT management. An acknowledgment of the donation and its
purpose will be sent to the donor. All other income will be placed in the general fund
and used as deemed appropriate.
C. USER FEES
User fees, if any, will be determined by the Board of Directors and set as low as
possible in line with operating costs.
D. EXPENDITURE AUTHORIZATION
Expenditures exceeding $800 and within the allowance provided in the budget will need
prior approval of the Executive Committee.
E. ADDITIONAL INCOME
In addition to the contract money received from the City of Fayetteville, other possible
sources of income may include:
1. from individuals, organizations, and businesses.
2. for video production services and user fees.
3. Government and foundation grants, if available.
4. Interest income from carefully managed money.
X. DEFINITIONS
A. CAT MANAGER
Person designated by the CAT Board to oversee the day to day operations of CAT.
B. ADVERTISING
Any call to action or solicitation to purchase a product or patronize a business; or any
use of superlatives in describing a product, service or business (i.e.". .. the best
service"); any direct comparison to other products, or direct comparisons to unnamed
products (i.e. "we're better"); or any price or value information; or any inducements to
buy.
C. CABLE ADMINISTRATOR
City employee who heads the Fayetteville Cable Administration Division, and whose
responsibilities include managing the Fayetteville Government Channel, providing city
liaison to Fayetteville’s Telecommunication Board, and overseeing the public access
contract.
D. CABLECASTING
Showing programs on the cable channel devoted to public access.
E. CAT INDEPENDENT PRODUCER
Person who has a current, valid Producer’s Card.
F. COMMERCIAL
See “ADVERTISING”.
G. LOCAL CITIZEN
A person who lives in, works in, volunteers in or owns property in Fayetteville or who
resides in the Fayetteville cable service area or who is a CAT producer.
H. LOCALLY PRODUCED
Programs produced by local citizens.
I. NEW PROGRAM
A program shown for the first time on CAT and that contains over 50% of material not
previously shown on CAT.
J. PEG CENTER
The Public, Education, Government building, equipment, and facilities.
K. REPLAY
Subsequent showing of a program.
L. SERIES
A program that has a regular weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly time slot.
M. UNDERWRITING
Providing financial or in-kind support for CAT or for a production of a particular program
to be shown on CAT. Acknowledgement of this support is cablecast in an approved
manner.
Statement of Policies
The mission of Community Access Television (CAT) is to make available a medium of
communication that provides freedom of expression and community awareness for all
local citizens.
CAT is a television cablecast and teaching service, which is contracted with the City of
Fayetteville. It is the foremost responsibility of CAT to meet the standards as outlined in
the City Contract. These policies serve as the standards of practice that are required in
the operations of the CAT station.
CAT is responsible for:
Scheduling and teaching of video production and telecommunications workshops
for local citizens.
Promoting the use of the Public Access Channel.
Scheduling of programs on the Public Access Channel.
Cablecasting of programs on the Public Access Channel.
Reporting the public access channel activities to the Cable Administrator, the
Telecommunications Board and the City of Fayetteville.
CAT is firmly committed to implementing these policies, yet unforeseen circumstances
may arise that might justify an exception. Such an exception may be granted by the CAT
Manager based on compelling reasons.
In the event of a conflict between any part of the policies herein and either the by-laws of
CAT or the contract between the City and CAT, the latter documents shall prevail.
CONTENTS
I. WORKSHOPS, CERTIFICATION, PRODUCER’S CARD 4
A. ORIENTATION - 4
B. WORKSHOPS – 4
C. CERTIFICATION 4
D. PRODUCER’S CARD 4
E. PRODUCER’S PRIVILEGES 4
F. RENEWAL OF PRODUCER’S CARD 4
G. LAPSED PRODUCER’S CARD 4
H. INACTIVE PRODUCERS 4
I. FEE WAIVERS 4
II. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES USE 5
A. VIDEO EQUIPMENT 5
B. PRODUCER’S LIABILITY 6
C. INTERNET WORKSTATION 6
D. DUBBING OF VIDEO TAPES 7
III. VIDEO PROGRAMMING 8
A. SOURCES OF PROGRAMS 8
B. PROGRAM CONTENT 8
C. SUBMITTING A PROGRAM 9
D. SCHEDULING OF PROGRAMS 10
E. STUDIO PRODUCTIONS 12
F. TECHNICAL STANDARDS 12
G. CAT STAFF PRODUCTIONS 13
IV. COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD 13
A. PURPOSE 13
B. PARTICIPANTS 13
C. MESSAGE CONTENT 14
V. UNDERWRITING 14
A. GENERAL UNDERWRITING 14
B. SPECIFIC UNDERWRITING 14
C. GUIDELINES FOR UNDERWRITING CREDITS 15
VI. REPORTING 15
A. FORMS 15
B. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION 16
VII. ABUSE OF PRIVILEGES AND COMPLAINTS 16
A. OVERSIGHT BY STAFF 16
B. SEXUAL HARASSMENT 16
C. VIOLATION OF POLICIES 17
D. COURSE OF ACTION 18
E. COMPLAINT AND APPEAL BY USER 18
VIII. PERSONNEL POLICY 19
A. EXPECTATIONS FOR STAFF 19
B. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT 19
C. NEPOTISM 19
D. SIMULTANEOUS BOARD AND STAFF POSITIONS 19
E. POLITICALLY NEUTRAL ATMOSPHERE 20
F. USE OF EQUIPMENT BY STAFF 20
G. PROPERTY POLICY 20
H. HOLIDAYS 20
I. VACATION 20
J. SICK LEAVE 21
K. PERSONAL LEAVE 21
L. FUNERAL LEAVE 21
M. RESIGNATION 21
N. OVERTIME 21
O. PART-TIME EMPLOYEES 21
P. REIMBURSEMENT FOR TRAVEL 22
Q. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS 22
R. TERMINATION 22
S. ADVERSE ACTIONS 22
T. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 23
IX. FINANCES AND MANAGEMENT 24
A. STAFF REQUIREMENTS 24
B. DONATIONS AND FEES 24
C. USER FEES 24
D. EXPENDITURE AUTHORIZATION 24
E. ADDITIONAL INCOME 24
X. DEFINITIONS 24
A. CAT MANAGER 24
B. ADVERTISING 25
C. CABLE ADMINISTRATOR 25
D. CABLECASTING 25
E. CAT INDEPENDENT PRODUCER 25
F. COMMERCIAL 25
G. LOCAL CITIZEN 25
H. LOCALLY PRODUCED 25
I. NEW PROGRAM 25
J. PEG CENTER 25
K. REPLAY 25
L. SERIES 26
M. UNDERWRITING 26
I. WORKSHOPS, CERTIFICATION, PRODUCER’S CARD
A. ORIENTATION -
Orientation is arranged through CAT staff, is a prerequisite to all video production
workshops, and is free.
B. WORKSHOPS –
Training is offered in studio, field and editing workshops.
C. CERTIFICATION
To become certified on a particular piece of equipment, a person must be trained by
CAT staff (or an entity approved by CAT) demonstrate proficiency in the use of that
equipment, and pay the appropriate fee.
D. PRODUCER’S CARD
CAT will issue a Producer’s Card to a person who has been certified in at least one of
the areas - studio, field, editing - has produced at least one cablecast quality program
for CAT and has paid the appropriate fee.
E. PRODUCER’S PRIVILEGES
A CAT independent producer may use the equipment on which he/she has been
certified and without charge.
F. RENEWAL OF PRODUCER’S CARD
Cat will send a reminder to each producer when his/her annual card is about to expire.
To be eligible for renewal a producer must have worked on at least one program
(shown on CAT) prior to the expiration date of the card. The card will then be renewed
for one year upon receipt of the appropriate fee.
G. LAPSED PRODUCER’S CARD
A producer who allowed his/her card to lapse may renew by paying the annual producer
fee, provided the lapsed time is less than one year. If the lapsed time is one year or
more, or if the producer has not worked on a program during the year, that person may
be asked to repeat the certification process.
H. INACTIVE PRODUCERS
Producers who have not worked on a program for one year or more may be required to
repeat the certification process.
I. FEE WAIVERS
Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request.
II. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES USE
A. VIDEO EQUIPMENT
1. CHECKING EQUIPMENT OUT/IN
Field equipment must be checked out and checked in during regular CAT hours
following prescribed CAT procedures.
2. TIME LIMITS
Unless otherwise approved, equipment must be returned within 24 hours or the next
CAT business day.
3. AREA LIMITS
Equipment may not be taken out of Northwest Arkansas (Washington, Benton, Carroll
and Madison Counties) unless special arrangements have been made with the CAT
Manager.
4. PURPOSE OF USAGE
Equipment may not be used for personal profit or in such a manner as to be in
competition with commercial enterprises. Use of facilities and equipment must result
in programming that is intended and made available for presentation on CAT.
5. CERTIFIED USE
Persons may reserve and use only the equipment for which they have been certified.
6. RESERVATIONS
Producers must reserve equipment and facility use through the CAT staff.
7. CANCELLATIONS
Producers must give a cancellation notice to the CAT staff at least 24 hours in advance.
8. LATE ARRIVAL
Producers who are more than 20 minutes late for their reservation, without notice, will
relinquish their reservation if there is another producer wishing to use that equipment.
9. LATE RETURN
A producer who returns checked-out equipment more than 20 minutes into the time
another had requested the equipment, may jeopardize his/her producer’s privileges.
10. EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTION
Producers are responsible for determining that the equipment is in working condition
when they arrive to use it or to check it out. Any malfunctions or damage should be
reported within 24 hours on the appropriate form.
11. UNCERTIFIED USE
Producers must not allow the use of equipment by anyone not certified on that
equipment. Producer’s privileges may be revoked for violation of this policy.
12. HOUSEKEEPING
All equipment must be returned to its proper place and facilities must be left clean and
orderly.
B. PRODUCER’S LIABILITY
1. ORDINARY WEAR AND TEAR
If equipment failure is due to ordinary wear and tear, CAT will request that the City repair
the equipment promptly.
2. ACCIDENT, MISHANDLING, NEGLECT
If equipment fails due to an accident, mishandling, or neglect, liability for the repair or
replacement rests with the person who signed for the equipment. The liability includes
the cost of replacing equipment stolen while it is checked out.
3. UNDERAGE USERS
Any certified user under the age of 18 must have on file a parent responsibility
statement before using equipment or facilities. Parents or legal guardians signing the
form accept full financial responsibility for equipment used by the minor, as specified in
#2 above.
C. INTERNET WORKSTATION
1. CHILDREN
Children may use the Internet, but only after their parents or guardians have given
permission, read and signed the Producer’s Application.
2. DISCUSSION GROUPS
There is no access for chat, news or discussion groups.
3. PROHIBITIONS
Any illegal or commercial activities are prohibited.
4. RESPONSIBILITY
CAT assumes no responsibility for information found on the Internet. Parents of
children under 18 must sign a waiver of responsibility.
5. MONITORING
CAT staff is not in a position to monitor and/or supervise children’s use of the Internet.
Users will observe a time limit on computer use.
6. FOOD/DRINK
No food or drink is allowed at the computer.
7. PRINTING
Users may be charged a fee for any printouts from the Internet. First two pages are free;
a charge may be assessed for each copy thereafter.
8. OUTSIDE SOFTWARE
No third party software or games will be installed by the user.
D. DUBBING OF VIDEO TAPES
1. COPIES
Access equipment may not be used by producers to make copies of any video tapes,
except that producers may make one master copy and one back-up copy of their own
program to keep, and one library copy to be submitted to CAT for cablecasting.
2. EXCEPTIONS
Exceptions may be made by the CAT Manager for submissions to contests or other
access centers, as an income producing activity for CAT, or for other reasons deemed
justifiable by the CAT Manager.
3. ALTERNATIVES
Producers are encouraged to videotape their programs from the cable as they are
being cablecast or to use commercially available equipment for copying.
III. VIDEO PROGRAMMING
A. SOURCES OF PROGRAMS
1. INDEPENDENT CAT PRODUCERS
Programs made by Independent CAT producers whether or not they use CAT facilities.
2. LOCAL CITIZENS
Programs made by local citizens who are not Independent CAT Producers.
3. IMPORTED PROGRAMS
Programs made outside the Fayetteville cable service area and provided by local
citizens. The person(s) who sponsored this program and the source of the program
must be identified through a sponsor-produced introduction which plays immediately
before the program or message board announcement..
4. CAT PRODUCED SHOWS
Programs produced by CAT for the purpose of allowing local citizens to perform or
express their views.
5. MESSAGE BOARD
Notices submitted by citizens about current events.
6. CAT PROMOTION
Media pieces and programs that directly promote the services of CAT and/or educate
viewers about those services.
B. PROGRAM CONTENT
1. CENSORSHIP
CAT does not censor the content of the programs provided.
2. PROGRAM FORMAT
Programs must follow the format and length guidelines of the producer class
standards.
3. SCREENING
Producers must fill out the Cablecast Request Form completely and accurately. This
includes checking the appropriate box on the form to indicate shows that may require
viewer discretion. Programs requiring viewer discretion will be played after midnight.
4. COMMERCIALS
CAT does not cablecast commercials nor permit advertising on programs. If a program
has advertising included, the producer may delete or amend that part of the program or
the entire program will be cancelled. These prohibitions do not apply to raising money
for CAT or for the fundraising partnerships with other non-profit organizations.
5. POLITICAL
For 72 hours before the polls close for any public election in the Fayetteville cable
service area, no live programs or taped programs that have not been previously shown
will be cablecast.
6. INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT
Any program that the cablecaster determines to be inappropriate for the regular hours
of cablecasting or in violation of CAT’s programming policies will be interrupted and/or
not shown.
C. SUBMITTING A PROGRAM
1. CABLECAST REQUEST FORM (CRF)
Anyone submitting a program for cablecasting must submit a CRF before the program
is scheduled. The form includes statements assigning responsibility for the content of
the program to the producer or provider. The form must be completed and signed by
the program provider.
a) Interruption Authorization
The CRF contains the following statement: “I hereby authorize CAT to interrupt my live or
taped program if the cablecaster determines that my program or any part of my
program is not appropriate for the regular hours of cablecasting or it violates CAT’s
programming policies or procedures.”
b) Channel Use Agreement
The CRF contains the following agreement: “As the producer or provider of the program
submitted to CAT for cablecasting over the Fayetteville cable system, I hereby promise
to indemnify and hold harmless CAT, its staff, management and Board of Directors, the
City of Fayetteville, and cable operator of Fayetteville for any legal actions resulting from
the cablecasting of this program including but without limitation to:
o Any violation of state, federal or local laws relating to obscenity.
o Libelous or slanderous statements.
o Unauthorized invasion of privacy.
o Materials protected by U.S. laws.
o Materials contrary to local, federal and state laws, regulations, procedures and
policies.
2. CUEING INSTRUCTIONS
Clear cueing instructions must be included on the tape. A minimum of 5 seconds
black leader length must be at the beginning and the end of any locally produced tape.
3. PROGRAM PREPARATION
The producer of the program is responsible for having the program ready on time. Post-
production work, such as countdowns and logos, and having the tape(s) properly
labeled, is the responsibility of the producer.
4. TAPE LOSS OR DAMAGE
Tapes not added to the CAT library and left at the access center longer than 2 months
are subject to being reused or discarded.
D. SCHEDULING OF PROGRAMS
1. SCHEDULING PRIORITIES -
a) Series will each receive a promotable “flagship” time slot, which will not be pre-
empted unless that spot is requested for a “timely program.
b) FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED
Programs will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis with the following
provisions.
c) TIMELY PROGRAMS
Every effort will be made to provide timely cablecasting for programs of immediate
interest.
d) SCHEDULING CONFLICTS
Regardless of when a cablecast was submitted, when there is a conflict for certain
times in the schedule, programs will be scheduled with the following preference:
(i) Regular scheduled series;
(ii) Premiere showing of a new locally produced show;
(iii) Subsequent showing of a new locally produced show;
(iv) Premiere showing of a new imported show;
(v) CAT Promotion;
(vi) Requested replay;
(vii) Other programming.
2. OTHER SCHEDULING POLICIES -
a) (a) FREQUENCY OF CABLECASTING
Upon request, programs may be shown as frequently as the following:
(i) Weekly series programs: 5 times a week
(ii) Bi-weekly series programs: 3 times per week for 2 weeks
(iii) Monthly series programs: 1 time per week for 4 weeks
(iv) New locally produced programs: 5 times per week for 2 weeks.
(v) New imported programs: up to 3 times per week for one week
(vi) Replays of previously shown programs: 3 times per week for one week
(vii) Short Takes or CAT promotions: 5 times per day.
b) IMPORTED PROGRAMS
One program per requester per week will be allowed for imported programming.
c) TAPE LIBRARY
Only locally produced programs may be submitted for the tape library.
d) PROGRAMS NOT SUPPLIED
If the producer fails to provide a scheduled program the message board may be
substituted, or if the holder of a regular time slot does not provide another of the series,
the previous series program may be replayed.
3. SERIES
a) EARNING A SERIES SLOT
Programs may earn regular time slots by the submission of five consecutive new
programs turned in on time. A series may be weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.
b) LOCALLY PRODUCED SERIES
When scheduling demands it, the reservation of regular time slots may be limited in the
following ways:
(i) The time slots may be reviewed every three months.
(ii) Individual producers or organizations holding more than one regular weekly time
slot for locally produced programming may be required to give up one or more slots to
allow other producers to schedule programs. The producer to be pre-empted first will
be the one holding the most time in regular time slots for the longest time.
c) IMPORTED SERIES
The provider of an imported program series may hold a regular time slot until a
producer of a local program series requests that slot. The change will be made at the
first available scheduling time, and the provider of the imported programs will be
offered another time slot if available.
d) LOSS OF SERIES SLOT
Two consecutive failures to supply new programs on time (unless prior arrangements
were made with CAT), or two failures to use reserved studio equipment (unless a 24
hour cancellation notice were given) may result in loss of series time slots.
E. STUDIO PRODUCTIONS
1. SCHEDULING STUDIO TIME
Studio programs must be presented during scheduled staff hours. If the program is to
be produced live, studio time must be requested at least two weeks before
cablecasting.
2. CABLECAST REQUEST FORM
The producer must complete a Cablecast Request Form for each program in the
series of live or taped shows.
3. NEW PRODUCERS
Producers who have never produced a studio production at CAT must arrange a pre-
production meeting with the CAT Manager before their first show. They must also have
served on the crew of at least two productions in the CAT studio.
4. PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
The producer or host of the show must advise guests and other talent to comply with all
CAT policies, especially restrictions on advertising and direct appeals for funds.
F. TECHNICAL STANDARDS
1. A/V AND CONTROL TRACKS
Video tapes must have a clear audio and video signal with an unbroken control track
(no glitches in the body of the program).
2. FORMAT
Programs must be submitted on a format that permits CAT to cablecast and must be
recorded at Standard Play speed.
3. VIDEOTAPE QUALITY
Only approved brand video tapes may be used.
G. CAT STAFF PRODUCTIONS
1. SHORT TAKES
The staff provides a regular video taping time each week for citizens who wish to take
up to five minutes of channel time to announce events, state opinions or perform.
Those using this free service must sign in upon arrival.
2. CONTRACT PRODUCTIONS
An individual, non-profit organization or for-profit organization may hire the CAT staff to
produce a program for use on the access channel.
3. CAT PROMOTION
CAT produces promotions and programs about CAT and public access television.
4. LONG TAKES & LIVE TALK
CAT staff provides time on a first come first served basis for local citizens to do a show
up to one hour in length. By appointment, opportunities are provided for people in which
they may perform before a camera, and be cablecast without being trained as a CAT
Producer.
IV. COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD
A. PURPOSE
The Community Message Board provides an electronic message service for
announcements of interest to Fayetteville cable viewers and provides an avenue of
promotion for CAT.
B. PARTICIPANTS
Local citizens, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations may post
messages.
C. MESSAGE CONTENT
1. SUBJECT MATTER
Messages are restricted to non-profit events or services.
2. COMMERCIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements of a commercial nature or on behalf of a for-profit business or service
are not allowed on the CAT Message Board. However, commercial businesses or
services may be mentioned as sponsors of a non-profit event.
3. PRICES
Specific information about prices or admission charges will be omitted from
announcements; however, statements such as “admission charged” are acceptable.
4. EDITING
The CAT staff or volunteers who post the messages reserve the right to edit messages
for length, style and conformance to policy.
5. MULTIPLE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements that simply restate information already submitted that week will not be
used. Some events may have multiple activities and, thus, may justify several individual
announcements. For example, individual events for Autumn Fest activities might each
be given a separate message. In this case each event must be submitted on a
separate Message Board Form.
V. UNDERWRITING
A. GENERAL UNDERWRITING
Organizations, companies or individuals which support the general operation of CAT
shall be given mention of support at the end of CAT produced programs. These
underwriting credits may be up to 15 seconds duration, may be shown up to 15 times
during a week and must be in compliance with the guidelines below.
B. SPECIFIC UNDERWRITING
Organizations, companies or individuals may underwrite the production of a particular
program, whether made by the CAT staff or by Independent Producers. These
underwriting credits may be up to 15 seconds duration, shall be shown at the end of
the given program throughout the program's initial two week schedule and must be in
compliance with the guidelines below. A producer may negotiate with the underwriter
for production expenses above the underwriting fee paid to CAT provided that such
arrangements are pre-approved by CAT.
C. GUIDELINES FOR UNDERWRITING CREDITS
1.
An underwriter may be recognized on a program by a statement such as “This program
was brought to you in part by _____” or “Community Access Television is supported in
part by contributions from _____”.
2.
A underwriting credit may include name, location, telephone number, website URL,
email address, hours of operation and a logo.
3.
Products and/or services may be listed only to describe the type of business or
organization. Images of products/services may not appear in the underwriting credit.
4.
Underwriting credits may not include advertising.
5.
No single underwriting credit may exceed 15 seconds per program; a series of
underwriting credits for multiple underwriters may not exceed 60 seconds per program.
6.
Underwriters may not influence content of any program.
7.
A fee schedule for underwriting is available at CAT.
VI. REPORTING
A. FORMS
1. CABLECAST REQUEST FORMS (CRF)
Each person who would like to cablecast on CAT must submit a CRF. These forms are
used as the bases for tracking the program types, sources, and scheduling practices at
CAT.
2. PAPER FORMS
Paper forms may be replaced by computer entries.
B. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION
1. REGULAR REPORTS
CAT staff prepares monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports that are submitted to the CAT
Board, the Cable Administrator, and the Telecommunications Board. The reports
include but are not limited to finances, the number of programs, the program
categories, the program titles, sources and types of programs, the number of times
each is played, the number of current and new producers, and the number of classes.
2. COMPLAINT REPORTS
A copy of all complaints to CAT and responses to those complaints will be delivered to
the CAT Board, the Cable Administrator, and the Telecommunications Board.
3. 3. ADDITIONAL REPORTS
Other reports may be requested by the CAT Board, the Cable Administrator, and the
Telecommunications Board.
VII. ABUSE OF PRIVILEGES AND COMPLAINTS
A. OVERSIGHT BY STAFF
1. OBSERVATION
CAT staff may observe any use of the facility, equipment, personnel and the video tape
content to determine proper use of access resources.
B. SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Whereas CAT is a public facility which brings together many people in close working
proximity and different social and business relationships; and therefore it is the
responsibility of all to promote a safe and pleasant working environment; be it known by
all that sexual harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
DEFINED -
1. Between employer and employee it is sexual harassment if sexual favors are
demanded as a condition of promotion or continued employment.
2. Between social/business equals (includes volunteers and producers, and all
relations between staff members, volunteers and producers) sexual harassment is the
continuation of innuendoes, jokes, personal remarks and /or touching after one
instance in which the recipient has protested that the behavior is offensive; or any other
such pattern of behavior which promotes or creates an uncomfortable working
environment for one or more other people.
PROCEDURES -
1. When possible, confront the harasser and persuade him/her to stop.
2. If #1 is not possible or is ineffective, complain in writing, as soon as possible directly
to the CAT Manager or to a Board Member.
3. A thorough investigation will be conducted in a timely manner by the CAT Manager to
determine all the facts and take action if necessary.
PENALTIES -
1. After the investigation is completed, anyone about whom a complaint has been
received shall be notified by the CAT Manager of the complaint, with warning that
his/her behavior has been perceived as harassment, and that such behavior must stop.
2. If the first warning is ineffective, station use privileges and/or employment will be
suspended. Privileges for a producer will be revoked for 30 days. An employee will be
suspended for three days.
3. If the second penalty is ineffective, and/or another complaint is verified upon
investigation, station privileges and/or employment will be revoked permanently and/or
employment will be terminated. This person will be ineligible for rehire.
4. Anyone who feels that he/she has been unjustly accused or penalized may submit
an appeal, in writing, directly to the Board of CAT two weeks prior to the next Board
Meeting.
C. VIOLATION OF POLICIES
An independent CAT producer may be sanctioned under any of the following
circumstances:
1. Losing, mishandling or damaging equipment without acceptance of liability.
2. Altering, repairing or taking apart any CAT equipment or video tape.
3. Using equipment for purposes other than those stated by the producer.
4. Allowing unauthorized use of equipment or violations of facility regulations.
5. Stealing.
6. Misrepresenting oneself to the public on behalf of CAT.
7. Using copyrighted material illegally.
8. Using liquor or tobacco or carrying firearms within the CAT facility.
9. Violating any CAT policy or Procedures for Programming.
D. COURSE OF ACTION
1. NOTIFICATION
The staff will give notification of a policy violation to the user and report the incident in
writing to the CAT Manager.
2. ACTION
The CAT Manager may, depending on the severity and frequency of the abuse:
a) Discuss the problem and resolve it with user and staff.
b) Suspend the use of equipment or CAT facilities for a specific time.
c) Suspend the use of CAT facilities for an indefinite time.
d) Refer the problem to the Board of Directors.
e) Notify the proper legal authorities.
E. COMPLAINT AND APPEAL BY USER
1. INFORMAL COMPLAINT
A user who feels he/she is being treated unfairly under these guidelines or who has a
complaint about the operation of CAT is encouraged to discuss the matter informally
with the CAT Manager.
2. FORMAL COMPLAINT
The user may file a formal complaint by submitting a written statement to the CAT
Manager who will respond in writing within two weeks.
3. APPEAL TO BOARD
If the user is not satisfied with the response, he/she may appeal by delivering a written
statement to the president of the CAT Board of Directors or the president’s
representative. If submitted at least 10 working days before the next regular board
meeting, the appeal will be heard at that meeting. Otherwise the board may choose to
hear the appeal at the following regular meeting. The board will respond in writing.
4. APPEAL TO CABLE ADMINISTRATOR
A user who wishes to appeal further may submit a written complaint to the Cable
Administrator.
VIII. PERSONNEL POLICY
A. EXPECTATIONS FOR STAFF
1. Familiarity with CAT policies and procedures.
2. Understanding the interdependence of staff operations and a willingness to work
cooperatively with other staff, including help in learning a new phase of the operation if
necessary.
3. Sensitivity to the public image of CAT in personnel appearance, behavior, and
maintenance of the facility.
4. Respecting the politically neutral position of CAT.
5. Reporting on time for work, and contacting CAT if unable to meet this obligation.
Notifying CAT how to be reached during an absence.
6. Requesting in advance and receiving approval when one plans to be absent for
annual leave, unpaid leave, or for any other reason. Taking responsibility for helping
staff plan to cover needs during one's absence.
7. Making sure that one's assignments fill the designated number of hours of work
per week, and keeping an accurate time sheet of hours worked, sick, or on leave.
8. Willingness to fill in for other staff in an emergency.
9. Maintaining accurate records and reports as required for the job assigned.
10. Attending staff meetings when scheduled or called.
11. Following directions of the CAT Manager.
B. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
CAT is an equal opportunity employer. Discrimination based on race, color, national
origin, religion, age, physical handicap or sex is prohibited in personnel matters
including but not limited to hiring, promotion, transfer, termination, training, pay and
benefits.
C. NEPOTISM
No person shall be employed at CAT who is related by blood, marriage or cohabitation
to another CAT employee or board member.
D. SIMULTANEOUS BOARD AND STAFF POSITIONS
Because of inherent conflict of interest, members of the CAT staff may not serve on the
board of directors.
E. POLITICALLY NEUTRAL ATMOSPHERE
An employee may not engage in any political activity while at work. If an employee
seeks elected office, he/she must resign from public access employment.
F. USE OF EQUIPMENT BY STAFF
CAT staff members who have been certified as producers will be encouraged to
produce programming for CAT during work hours with the approval of the CAT Manager,
provided this activity does not interfere with their individual job responsibilities.
Staff producers must provide videotape for their own productions and use the facility
and equipment according to standard policy.
G. PROPERTY POLICY
Employees who may be issued various pieces of equipment, keys, etc. belonging to
the access facility will be held responsible for such property.
H. HOLIDAYS
Full-time employees will observe the same holiday schedule as the City of Fayetteville.
However, if cablecasting continues through holidays, it may be necessary for at least
one employee to work on those days. The employee(s) scheduled for holiday work will
be allowed to schedule one paid day off at another time for each holiday worked.
I. VACATION
Full-time employees are eligible for paid vacation depending upon their length of
service:
5 days (40 hours) after 1 year's employment
10 days (80 hours) after 2 years' employment
15 days (120 hours) after 10 years' employment
Vacation time may be accumulated up to 20 days (160 hours). Any accumulated days
above 20 (160 hours) are forfeited. Each employee is encouraged to take one week's
vacation each year. However, no more than two consecutive weeks of vacation may be
taken at any one time except with approval of the Personnel Committee of the Board of
Directors. The CAT Manager is responsible for scheduling annual vacations for times
agreeable to the employee. On termination of employment employees will receive pay
for accumulated vacation time, not to exceed 10 (80 hours) days, and at the pay scale in
effect when vacation time was accrued.
Employees who have accrued time above this 20 day (160 hours) limit prior to the
changing of this policy are still entitled to the time they have accrued and will not lose
that time. However, any time accrued under the former policy above the limit of 10 days
(80 hours) cannot be cashed out.
J. SICK LEAVE
Full-time employees will accrue sick leave time at the rate of one day for each calendar
month of employment. Sick leave with pay may be used for personal illness, or for
providing care to an ill family member living in the same household, or for the birth or
adoption of a child. No more than 12 days of sick leave may be accumulated. After
accumulated sick leave has been used, accumulated vacation time may be used.
Employees will not be compensated for sick leave at termination.
K. PERSONAL LEAVE
Employees may take personal leave with the approval of the CAT Manager. However
they should schedule such leave so as to disrupt job performance as little as possible.
Such time away from work must be taken as vacation or sick leave.
L. FUNERAL LEAVE
Funeral leave may be granted to a maximum of three days with pay to make
arrangements for and to attend the funeral of a member of an employee's immediate
family. The time off may be charged to either accrued vacation or sick leave at the
employee's discretion.
M. RESIGNATION
Staff who are resigning are expected to give two weeks written notice to the CAT
Manager, who will notify the Board of Directors. If the CAT Manager is resigning, he/she
will notify the Board of Directors.
N. OVERTIME
Federal law restricts regular paid work to 40 hours per week. If an employee works over
8 hours per day, he/she should reduce his/her work schedule for the week with
approval of the CAT Manager to compensate for the extra time. Compensation time
('comp time') must be used before the end of the next pay period following its accrual.
O. PART-TIME EMPLOYEES
Part-time employees, those who work 30 hours a week or less, are expected to work
the same hours of work per day as full-time staff unless directed otherwise by the CAT
Manager. Part time employees receive sick leave and vacation at exactly one-half the
rate of full-time employees.
P. REIMBURSEMENT FOR TRAVEL
If employees are required to use their own vehicles to carry out an assigned task, they
may be reimbursed for documented mileage at a rate agreed upon by the employee
and CAT Manager. This rate will not exceed the current cents/mile prescribed by the
IRS, and, in the case of great distances, the total reimbursement will not exceed the
current available discount round-trip airfare to the destination. Expenses for travel by an
employee to conferences or other events may be reimbursed provided prior approval
has been received. Reimbursement will occur only after the original receipts are
submitted to the CAT Manager or representative. Only approved expenses will be
reimbursed. In some cases the employees may have their expenses paid in advance,
such as airfare and room. This may be done at the discretion of the Manager, but will
not preclude the employee's production of required receipts, within 10 working days
from date of return to work. If advance payment is made for empl oyees, and they fail to
engage in the indicated travel, they will be required to repay CAT the amount advanced.
Q. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS
The purpose of evaluations is to promote positive, constructive growth for the staff and
for the organization.
The CAT Manager will be evaluated by the Personnel Committee of the Board of
Directors at least once a year, and the evaluation will be reviewed by the board. The
Committee may, but is not required to seek comment from other staff members, board
members, producers, or the public. A written report will be prepared for the Manager's
personnel file and discussed with the Manager. The Manager may attach comments
and will sign the report.
The CAT Manager will similarly evaluate all staff at least once a year. The Personnel
Committee will review all evaluations of the staff, except for new employees (who will
be evaluated after the first three months of employment), and report to the Board of
Directors.
R. TERMINATION
An employee may be terminated at will.
S. ADVERSE ACTIONS
Employees who fail to follow CAT policies and procedures will be encouraged in a
positive manner to change their behavior.
If a member of the staff or the Board or a producer feels that an employee is not
following the policies or procedures, he or she will provide specific information to the
CAT Manager if the matter concerns a staff employee; or to the Personnel Committee of
the Board if it concerns the CAT Manager. The following steps may be taken:
1. Step One, First Meeting:
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee, as appropriate, will meet with the
employee to informally discuss and define the problem. The employee may say
whether he or she desires to: a. remain in the position, making needed changes, b.
resign and seek employment elsewhere, c. provide another appropriate alternative. The
employee and the CAT Manager (or the Personnel Committee) will seek an agreement
on the most desirable approach to solving the problem and set a time for re-evaluation,
in about two weeks. A written record of the meeting will be placed in the employee's
personnel file and a copy given to the employee.
2. Step Two, Second Meeting:
If the problem appears to have been solved or greatly improved, a second meeting may
not be necessary. Otherwise a second meeting will be held for a re-evaluation and re-
definition. Either party to the discussion may ask that a third party be present. An effort
will be made again to seek a solution to the problem if possible. A written record of the
second meeting will placed in the employee's personnel file and a copy given to the
employee.
3. Punitive Actions:
The CAT Manager/Personnel Committee may wish to take some punitive action after
the second meeting to change the employee's behavior. These are the options:
a) written warning, with a copy to be placed in the employee's personnel file.
b) probation of one month. (Two periods of probation in one year or three in 24
months will result in termination.)
c) one to three days' suspension without pay. (Two suspensions in one year will
result in termination.)
d) termination of employment.
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee will document in writing any such action
taken for the employee's personnel file. A copy will be given to the employee.
The CAT Manager or Personnel Committee may resort to immediate termination of
employment for egregious misbehavior, such as criminal acts, etc. of an employee,
without taking steps one and two above.
T. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Each employee will be asked to sign the following statement:
"I have read and I understand the general terms and conditions of employment
explained in the Personnel and General Policies of Community Access Television of
Fayetteville."
IX. FINANCES AND MANAGEMENT
A. STAFF REQUIREMENTS
The CAT staff will be expected to:
1. Maintain a balanced budget.
2. Submit a financial report for monthly review by the Board of Directors; and a yearly
report by a CPA, either in review or audit.
B. DONATIONS AND FEES
Donations and fees paid to CAT are nonrefundable. Any donor desiring contributed
funds to be used for a specific purpose, other than routine operations, shall have an
agreement with CAT management. An acknowledgment of the donation and its
purpose will be sent to the donor. All other income will be placed in the general fund
and used as deemed appropriate.
C. USER FEES
User fees, if any, will be determined by the Board of Directors and set as low as
possible in line with operating costs.
D. EXPENDITURE AUTHORIZATION
Expenditures exceeding $800 and within the allowance provided in the budget will need
prior approval of the Executive Committee.
E. ADDITIONAL INCOME
In addition to the contract money received from the City of Fayetteville, other possible
sources of income may include:
1. from individuals, organizations, and businesses.
2. for video production services and user fees.
3. Government and foundation grants, if available.
4. Interest income from carefully managed money.
X. DEFINITIONS
A. CAT MANAGER
Person designated by the CAT Board to oversee the day to day operations of CAT.
B. ADVERTISING
Any call to action or solicitation to purchase a product or patronize a business; or any
use of superlatives in describing a product, service or business (i.e.". .. the best
service"); any direct comparison to other products, or direct comparisons to unnamed
products (i.e. "we're better"); or any price or value information; or any inducements to
buy.
C. CABLE ADMINISTRATOR
City employee who heads the Fayetteville Cable Administration Division, and whose
responsibilities include managing the Fayetteville Government Channel, providing city
liaison to Fayetteville’s Telecommunication Board, and overseeing the public access
contract.
D. CABLECASTING
Showing programs on the cable channel devoted to public access.
E. CAT INDEPENDENT PRODUCER
Person who has a current, valid Producer’s Card.
F. COMMERCIAL
See “ADVERTISING”.
G. LOCAL CITIZEN
A person who lives in, works in, volunteers in or owns property in Fayetteville or who
resides in the Fayetteville cable service area or who is a CAT producer.
H. LOCALLY PRODUCED
Programs produced by local citizens.
I. NEW PROGRAM
A program shown for the first time on CAT and that contains over 50% of material not
previously shown on CAT.
J. PEG CENTER
The Public, Education, Government building, equipment, and facilities.
K. REPLAY
Subsequent showing of a program.
L. SERIES
A program that has a regular weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly time slot.
M. UNDERWRITING
Providing financial or in-kind support for CAT or for a production of a particular program
to be shown on CAT. Acknowledgement of this support is cablecast in an approved
manner.
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| The mission of Community Access Television is to make available a medium of communication that provides freedom of expression and community awareness for all local citizens "Community Access Television is a project partially funded by the City of Fayetteville" |
CAT
Policies
Policies
