Do access centers produce TV shows for all these users?

No. This is perhaps the most misunderstood role of PEG access operations. Access centers are TV studios, but unlike broadcast stations, they are not usually staffed with TV producers, camera operators, and technicians. An access center is more like a combination school and equipment library where individuals and organizations are trained how to use TV production equipment, how to make TV shows, and then are provided the free use of equipment and cable channel time to produce and air their shows.

In Sutton, programming for the Government and Education Access Channels is provided subject to the discretion of the Town Government and School Departments. Routinely, Town Government and School Department meetings and events are recorded and played back.

A Town Resident or an Access Producer may tape an event or program a meeting that they feel is appropriate to playback on the local stations. If so, they must get approval from the proper representatives of the Town Government or School Department in order for that to happen. Occasionally, programming that is produced outside of Sutton can be considered for playback on the Public Channel. The content of each program is considered and approval from the appropriate body is given before any outside programming is played on Verizon Channel 30 and Charter/Spectrum Channel 194. 

Programming for Sutton's Public Access Channel can be provided by volunteer Access Producers, who have taken the SCTV Production Course and are authorized to use SCTV equipment and facilities.  In addition, any Sutton resident, town employee, or local business owner may submit programming for the Public Station.  Programming must be submitted on an appropriate media format (see FAQ #6) , and a Cablecast Request Form must be signed stipulating that the programming adheres to Public Access rules and guidelines, and that the person who filled out the form will take responsibility if any issues with the program's content arise.

For more information on submitting programming to SCTV, please contact the office.