West Bend cable TV pioneer reflects on early broadcast challenges

The West Bend Community Television Committee meeting on February 11, 2020, featured a reflective discussion led by a long-time member who shared insights from the early days of community cable television in West Bend. The speaker, who was the first director of community cable, recounted the humble beginnings of the program, which started in the basement of Badger Middle School.

He described how the initial setup involved broadcasting community programs using VHS tapes and a personal computer for program listings. The committee began with three channels and relied on a significant amount of equipment to broadcast live city council meetings from the old City Hall. The speaker emphasized the challenges of operating with limited technology, recalling the use of analog feeds and the involvement of high school interns to help with camera work.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the future of funding for community television. The speaker expressed anxiety over the political nature of funding decisions, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding financial support for the program. This concern reflects broader issues faced by community media in adapting to changing technologies and funding landscapes.

The meeting underscored the importance of community television as a platform for local engagement and the need for ongoing support to ensure its sustainability in the future.