Scranton resident challenges ECTV censorship and mismanagement in federal court

During the recent Scranton City Council meeting, resident Lee Morgan raised serious concerns regarding the management and operations of Electric City TV (ECTV), a public access channel funded by the city and Lackawanna County. Morgan, who has filed a complaint in federal court, alleges that ECTV's channel manager, Mark Magliaro, has unlawfully restricted content and silenced voices on the platform.

Morgan detailed his experience hosting shows on ECTV, claiming that after a change in the Home Rule Charter, he faced pressure from ECTV management to stop producing videos that were deemed controversial. He asserted that these actions violate federal laws governing public access channels, which are intended to promote free speech and community engagement.

The resident highlighted a specific incident where a guest, David Bergerhoff, was invited to discuss his candidacy for state representative, but ECTV refused to air the segment. Morgan criticized the channel's management for succumbing to political pressure from local officials, including the mayor and county commissioners, who allegedly disapproved of the content.

In his address, Morgan also called for an investigation into the allocation of a $1.6 million franchise fee received by the city, questioning how these funds are being utilized and whether they are supporting the intended purpose of ECTV. He expressed concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public resources, urging federal authorities to look into the matter.

Additionally, Morgan raised questions about the handling of federal grant money within the city, particularly regarding the South Side Sports Complex, which he claims was improperly sold despite restrictions against such actions.

The issues raised by Morgan reflect broader concerns about free speech, government accountability, and the proper use of public funds in Scranton. As the council continues to address these matters, residents are left to ponder the implications for local media and civic engagement in their community.