Attack on Missouri Community TV Outlet Limits Community Voices

A low-cost, public-funded community television outlet is under attack by Jefferson City, Missouri legislators. News about its possible demise surfaced in news reports in February. An article in the Jefferson City News-Tribune indicated that the media outlet will stop broadcasting unless the city provides $55,000 in funding or another institution like Lincoln University picks up the operation of the station. The station produces local programs like "Community Connection" and "Missouri Viewpoints," which provides a "community service...that helps you know what's happening with local government and also gives a voice to those that would not otherwise be heard."



Unless there's a particular reason for closing the station it seems in good practice to have a monitor of local government, especially in the Missouri state capital of Jefferson City. Some opinions on the topic argue that the city is not facing a financial crisis and supports continuation of the community TV station. August 2013 council meetings are deliberating the status of the TV station.

Do you want to lend your voice of support? Contact a Jefferson City council person by calling or writing -- information available at http://www.jeffcitymo.org/council/contactamember.html.

Better yet, attend the August 19, 2013 council meeting at 6:00 pm. See this link for details about the meeting.

Update 8/20/13: Jefferson City council provides $110,000 of funding to JCTV as reported by KRCG TV13.

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