2006-06-28 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Some of the benefits of having a pool of part-time producers include a more reliable and consistently trained crew for van shoots, the ability to produce more programs, a reservoir of individuals who may be interested in also working for cities to tape meetings, and an overall increase in the quality of our final product. The technical quality of our programs is of particular interest to us, as we are working to develop a commercial sponsorship program. We want to be sure our programs look as professional as possible. While it may seem questionable to suggest increasing our staffing levels at a time when future funding is in jeopardy, it actually makes a lot of sense. Based on first quarter franchise .and PEG fee payments, our traditional income continues to grow. If nothing happens in the legislature, or if a "do no harm" PEG amendment 'is included in the final bill, we will be all the stronger. If, however, our funding is reduced we will have options. We can always nix the part-time pool, or, most of our productions might end up being produced by part-timers. In that case, having a pool of producers established would result in a smoother transition. _I II II equipment We have done an excellent job of gradually upgrading our video production equipment. As it stands, we sbould not require any major purchases for the truck, master control, Studio B, public portable, or the staff portable studio for several years. The last major area that should be upgraded is Studio A. We recommend purchasing three new camera systems, a clear-com intercom system, one tripod, two DVCPro tape decks, and microphones. In addition to the Studio, it would be prudent to upgrade editing computers and software, purchase an HD camcorder for highest quality sponsorship spots, and an encoder for master control. (We are currently able to encode two programs at once, but we will soon be faced with three city meetings occurring simultaneously, which will require a third encoder.) We would like to add a wide angle lens and SDI test equipment to the truck inventory, and we should also replace some microphones. Finally, it has become apparent that we could benefit from purchasing a cargo van. (Used would be fine.) It would make transporting the staff portable studio and the van scaffolding much simpler. We should budget for these expenses, but consider the legislative climate before spending it. A table of recommended equipment purchases for 2007 is attached to this report. 5 S'1