Frequently Asked Questions

Who are we?
Community Access Television is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit corporation authorized by the City of Erie to administer the public access channel on Time Warner Cable, Channel 2.

Why do we exist?
The first two words in our name say it all. We are here to provide access to the airwaves to the community, and that includes individuals as well as non-profit organizations. There is no other source of low-cost community programming that has the potential to reach as many people in Erie. We give people and organizations the tools that they need to get their unique messages across to their intended audiences.

What do we do?
We teach people how to produce television, we lend our equipment, facility, and our expertise, and we put their programs on Channel 2 on Time Warner Cable.

How are we funded?
In exchange for the ability to run cable in the city rights of way, Time Warner Cable returns 4% of its gross revenues to the City of Erie general fund and 1% of its gross revenues to Community Access Television. We also receive grant funds from Time Warner Cable and other sources such as The Erie Community Foundation, as well as membership dues from our members.

How does it work?
Anyone who lives or works in the city of Erie, or represents an organization based in or affiliated with the city, can become a member. There are both individual and organizational memberships. Once you become a member, we ask you to attend one or more of our workshops. After you are trained, you are able to reserve equipment and facilities and begin producing your own programs, with some assistance from our staff. Anything that you produce using our equipment is then scheduled for airing.

What can you produce at CAT?
You can produce almost anything you want. The three exceptions are that your program must be non-commercial, you must not slander or libel anyone or invade anyone’s privacy, and your program must not violate community standards for obscenity.

What does it cost? (not much!)
Individuals pay $35.00 a year if they are Time Warner subscribers and $45.00 if not. The organizational rate is $60.00 for the organization and $20.00 for each member of that organization who represents them    Our workshops cost $10.00 each, with your first one free.  There is no cost for use of equipment or facilities. Members are responsible for supplying their own videotapes.