LtE: RCTV’s Contract Renewal
Dear Editor,
I write as a Reading Precinct 2 resident to advocate for extending Reading Community Television's (RCTV) contract with Reading.
As a concerned parent of three children, it is notable that the Reading School Committee recently agreed unanimously to share concerns about debate on the Select Board to end Reading's contract with RCTV. The School Committee believes RCTV to be a great, long-term partner for the education of hundreds of students annually at RMHS. To me, the School Committee's support indicates that the RCTV operators are providing a vital community service with good performance. I also would like to highlight that many of our elderly neighbors rely on traditional information sources for their local information.
With this in mind, it was surprising to learn that the Select Board is considering non-renewal of the RCTV contract. It is also surprising that whatever technical or process issues that exist with RCTV service would not have been communicated, discussed, and mitigated prior to the vote on contract extension by the Select Board. It seems irregular and off-process for the Select Board to jeopardize a valuable community institution without sufficient time given for fact-finding, community engagement, and debate.
In reviewing the Select Board's concerns, I was confused by the allegations presented that RCTV failed in their responsibilities to the town. It was unclear from the presentations if the issues were technical or process related as little documentation was evident. A confusing video recording was presented in which RCTV's culpability was not clearly established. Given the allegations, it would seem appropriate that RCTV be allowed to respond in its defense. The references to many years of failures to many town past managers felt shallow without acknowledging the pandemic-era disruptions to civic and social life that included the period of time in question.
Given that RCTV is a long-standing, good performing partner performing a service vital for our kids, elderly, and community, I am alarmed that what appears to be minor technical or process gaps would jeopardize their town contract. I assume that RCTV would welcome the opportunity under a normal contract negotiation process to review expectations and improve on the issues the Select Board has raised as well as adapt to the many changes recent years have brought to our community.
I am hopeful that the Select Board is making a deliberative and good-faith effort in its negotiations with RCTV.
Sincerely,
S. Jordan Kerns