Marblehead supports local TV programs

MARBLEHEAD – Marbleheaders love the local programming on cable TV – and they want it to continue and expand.That was the message heard over and over again at last week’s public hearing on the possibility of renewing Comcast’s cable television license.Comcast’s license expires June 10. Selectmen and the Cable Oversight Committee held the 40-minute hearing.The 16 speakers focused on the strengths of local programming. Ann Marie Casey, executive director of the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, called it "a great marketing tool," School Committee Vice Chairman Amy Drinker expressed gratitude for TV coverage of local government and Marblehead Museum Director Pam Peterson and several cable show producers said the staff was helpful.Longtime local volunteer Fraffie Welch said community access TV "gives the public the opportunity to stay informed and connected."However, Director of Finance John McGinn noted that several municipal boards are still not connected to cable.Robert Peck, chairman of the newly formed Marblehead Community Access Corporation, said that many resources have gone untapped and under-utilized and his group is reaching out to increase local cable programming.In addition to the local access channel, Peck’s group wants to run a local channel on municipal government and a third on the schools.Cable Oversight Committee Chairman Paul Rabin said his committee will negotiate license terms with Comcast and will accept letters of comment on cable TV matters during the negotiations. Letters may be sent to the committee at the selectmen’s office at Abbot Hall.