In a significant shift for local television services, the government announced the discontinuation of its traditional coax cable TV system, effective Monday. This transition has been in the works for several years, driven by the rising costs of cable services and the increasing popularity of streaming platforms. The aging coax infrastructure, which has been in operation for 24 years, has become costly to maintain, prompting the move to a new streaming service, SFCN TV.

Officials emphasized that the change is not merely a technical upgrade but a necessary evolution in response to consumer preferences. As more viewers migrate to streaming services, the demand for traditional cable has dwindled, leading to a decline in available equipment and support for the coax system. The new SFCN TV service promises to offer a more intuitive viewing experience, with features such as DVR capabilities and parental controls included at no additional cost.

Customers currently using the coax system are encouraged to transition to SFCN TV, which will provide access to a broader range of channels, including approximately 60 additional free channels. The service will maintain the same pricing structure as the old cable system, eliminating set-top box rental fees and allowing users to watch from various devices, including smart TVs and streaming sticks.

To facilitate the transition, the government has implemented a communication strategy, including newsletters and direct mailers to inform customers of the impending changes. On the day of the switch, the coax channels will be replaced with a looping video explaining the discontinuation and guiding users on how to access SFCN TV.

Despite the extensive outreach, officials expressed concern about approximately 500 customers who have yet to transition. They are prepared to assist users on the day of the switch but acknowledged the limitations of their staffing.

Looking ahead, there are discussions about potentially introducing a new streaming package, referred to as \"broadband TV,\" which could offer a more flexible viewing option for consumers. This move reflects a broader trend in the media landscape, as traditional cable systems adapt to the realities of modern viewing habits.