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Danvers access TV warns cable subscriber decline is shrinking franchise-fee funding, urges diversification
Summary
At its Sept. 25 annual meeting, Danvers Community Access Television reported falling cable-subscriber revenue tied to franchise fees from Comcast and Verizon, outlined programming and staffing levels, and described plans to stretch reserves while advocating for state-level changes to modernize franchise fees.
Danvers Community Access Television (DCAT) reported at its annual meeting on Sept. 25, 2025, that long-term declines in cable subscriptions have reduced franchise-fee revenue and will require the nonprofit to rely more on reserves, underwriting and fundraising while pressing state legislators to modernize fee rules.
The issue is central because DCAT uses franchise fees from Comcast and Verizon to fund staff, equipment and the town’s government, education and public programming. "I don't think that you should be locked out of watching a select board meeting because you don't subscribe to Comcast," the executive director said, arguing the current funding model relies on a shrinking pool of cable payers.
DCAT reported that its audited or review-level financial filings (Form 990) show a total organization value of about $1,200,000 as of the end of 2023; that figure includes cash, investments and the book value (less depreciation) of equipment and leasehold improvements at town locations. The…
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