Approved on 6-10-2002
IMPLEMENTATION OF FIRST-COME,
FIRST-SERVED MANDATE
1.0 The mandate calls for Novato Public Access Television, (NPAT) to make training facilities, equipment and channel space available on an open, non-discriminatory basis to residents of Novato. The day-to-day operations of NPAT require clarification of this mandate and consistent guidelines for implementation.
2.0 The goal of all NPAT activities shall be to:
(a) maximize the use of all of NPAT limited resources, and
(b) encourage the broadest possible diversity of use and programming by the community. NPAT, at its discretion, may impose reasonable limitations and direct training outreach and channel scheduling in such a way as to assure fair access by all and maximum utilization of NPAT resources.
2.1 No person may be charged a fee of any kind to participate in a program produced using NPAT equipment or facilities.
3.0 Equipment or facilities may be requested by the producer (not more than 60 calendar days in advance) beginning on the first day of the month for that month and the month following, in writing, in person or by phone. (Reservations should be confirmed by the user seven (7) days in advance. Such scheduling provides a rolling window of opportunity for first-come, first-served reservations.)
3.1 Each request or transaction form will be timed and dated by NPAT staff to provide reference in cases of reservation disputes.
3.2 Time blocks allowed for equipment reservations will be as follows:
(a) Portable equipment: 24 hours except over weekends, holidays or such other times as NPAT offices are not open:
(b) Edit equipment: Hour blocks
(c) Studio facilities: Three (3) hours maximum unless special arrangements have been approved by the NPAT staff:
3.3 Each user or group is limited to two (2) portable equipment or studio reservations and three (3) edit reservations at a time. An additional reservation may be made only when an existing reservation has been completed or the user has requested and NPAT has approved series production,
3.4 Portable equipment is normally reserved per one (1) camera, one (1) recorder configurations unless specific request by user, and authorization by NPAT on-duty supervisory staff is given, two (2) camera, one (1) portable switcher configurations can be checked out after proper training and certification has been conducted by NPAT staff.
3.5 Priorities for equipment use are ranked as follows:
(a) Training workshop: Equipment required for training will not be available for other purposes during training sessions.
(b) First-time Users: To serve an increasing number of citizens, first-time users will be given limited priority in the mix of equipment reservations. NPAT staff will apply this guideline with minimum disruption of regular user plans.
(c) Time-certain Dates: To accommodate time-certain fixed-time or one-time events. NPAT staff may apply this guideline, again with a minimum disruption of regular user plans.
(d) Series Producers: NPAT will give limited priority to series producers, in recognition that reliably available resources are required for the user who wants to generate time-related series programming, and must be able to schedule production crew with regularity.
(e) Regular User: In cases where preemption is involved. NPAT staff will negotiate an agreeable settlement between regular users and preemptive users.
3.6 Producers who have special reservation requirements for a series program, such as a standing studio reservation, must have a signed series contract on file with NPAT.
(a) Series contracts may be made for weekly, biweekly or monthly series. Dates of series contracts are within two sections a year:
á January – June
á July – December
(b) The producer must have a minimum of four (4) crewmembers signed up to regularly crew the series program.
(c) If a producer fails to produce any two installments for a series, the series may be cancelled and the user may not be granted a series contract in the future.
3.7 NPAT will maintain a "stand-by" list for interested producers, on a first-come first-served basis, interested in using cancelled reservations.
(1) Producers who have gone over their per-program allotment are eligible for stand-by time with the approval of the Executive Director.
3.8 Exceptions to the guidelines must be approved by the Executive Director. Consideration will be given to written proposals for exceptions stating overall project goals, special circumstances, and exceptions requested.
4.0 NPAT will provide training to residents of Novato on a first-come, first-served basis, and will concurrently seek to encourage through staff outreach efforts the broadest possible mix of participation in public access activities.
4.1 NPAT will maintain a list of training requests, dated at the time of the request.
4.2 In the event of workshop overcrowding, the offering of training shall be drawn from the master list of training requests according to the date sequence of that list.
(a) Size of training groups shall be determined by constraints of equipment and space, and by training effectiveness.
(b) Frequency of training shall be determined by the Executive Director based on staff availability, facilities and equipment availability, demand, and other factors.
4.3 Outreach efforts shall be directed by the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to ensure:
(a) Fair use of NPAT by all
(b) Maximization of resources; and
(c) The broadest possible diversity of use
5.0 Channel space for live or videotaped programs must be requested through the NPAT Executive Director.
5.1 NPAT retains the right to schedule programming playback at times of its discretion. Every effort will be made to accommodate producers' requested time-slot.
5.2 The Executive Director will honor requests on a first-come, first-served basis where possible within the parameters of:
(a) Overall program composition and flow:
(b) Considerations of audience-building;
(c) Constraints of schedule building with regard to series, live feeds and special events;
(d) Representative diversity of programming.
5.3 When a program provider does not request specific dates, or time, NPAT will schedule his/her programs.
5.4 Series programs may be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. The following limitations apply to series programming.
(a) To keep a series time slot, the producer must maintain a 5 to 1 ratio of original to repeat programming;
(b) Renewal of a series will be based on (1) the producer's ability to deliver in a timely manner, (2) requests made for the same time and days, (3) demands on studio or equipment time, and (4) overall diversity of program schedule.
5.5 The cablecast of tapes produced by non-residents of Novato may be preempted by requests for channel space by residents of Novato.
5.6 At no time will programming produced by non-residents of Novato comprise more than 95% of the total program time scheduled during a month, unless so approved by the NPAT Board of Directors.
6.0 Messages for bulletin board display on NPAT channels during non-video programming hours will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with the following limitations:
6.1 All messages must comply with program content policies listed below in Part 8.
6.2 All messages must conform to the constraints of NPAT's bulletin board system with regard to technical and programmatic dimensions.
6.3 All bulletin board messages must be identified as to source and provider.
EXCEPTIONS - See Part 11
Subject: NPAT Policies and
Procedure
Part 2 - PRODUCER ELIGIBILITY
1.0 NPAT establishes the following criteria of eligibility for use of NPAT facilities, equipment, training, and channel space.
2.0 Any resident of Novato or employee or agent of a business, institution or government agency that operates in Novato will be considered eligible to use NPAT facilities, equipment, training and channel space. Substantive proof of residency may be required.
2.1 Residence shall mean bona fide residence.
2.2. Staff members of a bona fide service organization or non-profit agency that services or is located in Novato shall be considered eligible on behalf of the organization.
2.3 Full-time students of an educational institution located in Novato shall be considered eligible.
2.4 An authorized representative of an institution or group named in 2.2 or 2.3 above shall be considered eligible.
2.5 In order to facilitate development of Public Access and to meet community needs, NPAT will accept programming of interest and service to residents of Novato provided that:
(a) Such programming meet all requirements for programming spelled out in Part 8 below:
(b) Such programming is subject to appropriate guidelines specified under Part 1 above.
2.6 Residents of Novato have priority for checking out equipment and using facilities, and may preempt eligible users specified in 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, and 2.5 above.
2.7 Verification of residency may be required to be on file in the NPAT office prior to reservation.
3.0 A resident of Novato must be 18 years of age or older to request use of NPAT training, facilities, equipment or channel space with the following exceptions:
3.1 If an adult resident of Novato assumes legal responsibility and liability, a minor who is enrolled in the 8th grade or above may use the training facilities, equipment or channel space of NPAT.
3.2 An adult taking responsibility for a minor in NPAT programs must have signed a "Producers Agreement" which is to be kept on file at NPAT. The adult must have a signed "Minor Release Form" on file, which states that adult's full responsibility for the equipment during the period when the minor is in possession of equipment or materials.
3.3 An adult taking responsibility for a minor in NPAT programs assumes responsibility for any damage to equipment facilities used by the minor. The costs of any repair or replacement of equipment or materials resulting from damage, misuse, or theft while such equipment or materials are in the possession and control of the minor will be the named adultÕs responsibility.
3.4 An adult taking responsibility for a minor in NPAT programs must sign the NPAT Producers Agreement and assume responsibility for the content of the program in which the minor is involved.
3.5 A minor shall receive NPAT certification, which indicates the provisional status of the certification based on age.
4.0 A resident or other user of NPAT training, facilities, equipment and channel space must sign and submit to NPAT and provide verification of age and residency prior to using NPAT facilities or services.
5.0 A user of NPAT facilities or equipment must be certified in the use of the equipment or facilities requested. The policy on certification is specified below in Part 3.
Subject: NPAT: Policies and
Procedures
1.0 In order to make equipment and facilities available to eligible residents of Novato on a first-come, first-served basis, to insure the proper and maximal use of such equipment and facilities, and to protect NPAT resources against misuse by unqualified persons, it is necessary to have special guidelines for certifying an eligible user's qualification to NPAT equipment and facilities.
2.0 Prior to using NPAT equipment or facilities, on NPAT premises or away from NPAT premises, an eligible user must:
(a) Be oriented to NPAT programs, policies, procedures and facilities
(b) Have a specific program goal to accomplish
(c) Be trained or certified by NPAT or an NPAT approved training program in the specific equipment to be used
(d) Have an understanding of the policies and procedures under which NPAT makes such equipment and facilities available to the public
3.0 NPAT will provide orientations to its policies, procedures, operations and programs on a regular basis and shall require attendance at such orientations as prerequisite to entering NPAT programs or using channel capacity.
3.1 Orientation will be held for those offered training, and will be scheduled and announced in advance.
3.2 Participants will receive a "Policies and Procedures" booklet at training registration for reference and additional home study.
3.3 Participants may be asked to demonstrate an understanding of the policies and procedures of operation in a quiz administered at the training session following the orientation.
3.4 Eligible users may re-take the orientation session and quiz as many times as desired.
3.5 Eligible users may be directed to re-attend the orientation session as a condition of probation, specified in Part 7 below.
4.0 Given that the goal of training is to enable participants to develop the requisite skills to produce community programming for the NPAT channels, producers are encouraged to develop specific program ideas with NPAT staff. This idea may be developed, with NPAT staff or through the training program into a specific production plan.
5.0 NPAT will provide training in Portable Field Production. Editing, Studio Production, and Computer Graphics, and may require successful completion of the training program in each specific area for certification to use equipment facilities in that specific area.
5.1 Each trainee will attend all the training sessions involved in a particular track for certification in that track.
5.2 Each trainee will participate in a group production exercise aimed at testing understandings under field conditions.
5.3 Each trainee will demonstrate proficiency in using the equipment in the particular track, being trained for in order to be certified to use that specific equipment.
6.0 At the conclusion of training in a particular track, the user who has successfully completed the training in that track will be "provisionally certified" to use the equipment in that track.
6.1 Full certification in each training track is contingent on the user successfully completing a program for cablecast.
6.2 At such time as users submit their first completed program for cablecast, they will be fully certified by NPAT, and may be provided with a NPAT ID card.
6.3 Certification is only good for six (6) months after the last time the user availed themselves of equipment or facility use and may be renewed at the discretion of the Executive Director or by attending a NPAT refresher training, this includes having to attend orientation again.
7.0 NPAT may make exceptions to the requirement for NPAT- approved training as a part of the process necessary to becoming certified to use specific NPAT equipment or facilities.
Part 4 - PORTABLE EQUIPMENT
1.0 Use of NPAT portable field production equipment will follow guidelines set up to insure maximization of use, responsible and safe use, protection of equipment, and orderly, timely and manageable supervision.
GENERAL
2.0 Use of NPAT portable field production equipment must be for the purpose of recording and preparing programs for cablecast on the NPAT channels in Novato.
2.1 Use of NPAT portable field production equipment for private or commercial purposes is prohibited.
2.2 Use of NPAT portable field production equipment must be within the Novato area or within a reasonable distance from Novato as prior approved in writing by the Executive Director.
2.3 NPAT portable field production equipment may only be used by a certified producer (see Part 3 above). The producer assumes responsibility for the equipment, its care during usage, and has a Producer's Agreement on file in the NPAT offices.
3.0 Portable equipment may be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis (see Part 1 above) by written, telephone or in-person request.
3.1 Portable equipment reservations should be made at least seven days in advance. Reservations will not be accepted more than sixty (60) days in advance, beginning the first day of the month for that month and the month following.
3.2 Time blocks for portable equipment use are 24 hours, except on weekends or holidays, based upon:
(a) The production needs of the user; and
(b) The maximization of utilization of equipment by the greatest number of users.
3.3 A producer or group is usually limited to one (1) field production package reservation at a time. Field production packages a camera with appropriate accessories as described above, Reservations for multi-camera portable packages require specific application and approval by NPAT staff.
3.4 Only one (1) portable unit may be reserved per project at any one given time.
3.5 A maximum of three (3) portable reservations per field produced program are permitted. Additional, reservations must be approved by the Executive Director. In addition, each portable program must be completed within two (2) months of the initial checkout, unless an extension has been approved through the Executive Director.
3.6 Reservation of portable field production equipment includes the following specifications:
(a) The check-out date and time:
(b) The check-in date and time:
(c) The equipment to be used:
(d) The project for which the reservation has been made:
3.7 Cancellations or changes in the reservation must be made at least 24 hours in advance of the reservation check-out time whenever possible. Failure of notification can result in probationary sanctions. (See Part 7)
4.0 The checkout date and time reserved is a time-specific appointment with a NPAT staff member and should be considered as such.
4.1 The producer shall allow a minimum of thirty (30) minutes for the scheduled pick up and check out of equipment.
4.2 The producer checking out equipment will be required to set up the equipment in the presence of the on-duty supervising NPAT staff member and make a test tape prior to removing the equipment from NPAT premises. The test allows the producer and the NPAT staff member to assure the operability of all components of the system and to agree upon any exceptions.
4.3 All equipment to be removed from NPAT premises must be checked out by a NPAT staff member, signed for by a certified producer, and properly recorded on NPAT forms.
4.4. A producer may be required to present a valid certification card to the NPAT staff member supervising the checkout. When requested this certification card will be attached to the equipment checkout form until equipment is returned to the NPAT site and checked in.
4.5 A producer must sign the Equipment Checkout form, indicating responsibility for the items listed there, noting any malfunctions, cosmetic damage or missing parts and indicating the date and time they agree to return the equipment to NPAT premises.
4.6 Equipment reservations are non-transferable. The producer making the reservation must be present at the checkout and cannot send a proxy or substitute unless:
(a) Specific arrangements for such have been made at the time of the reservation; and
(b) The proxy or substitute is also a certified producer with NPAT.
5.0 The Check-In date and time is a time specific appointment with a NPAT staff member and should be considered as such.
5.1 The producer should allow a minimum of thirty (30) minutes for the scheduled Check-In.
5.2 The producer is required to set up and operate the portable equipment being returned in order to allow NPAT staffers to check it over for operability and possible damage.
5.3 At no time is equipment to be returned, dropped off, or left at the NPAT premises without examination and testing with a NPAT staff member and sign off on the equipment Checkout form by both the producer and NPAT staff member. Failure to return equipment with proper check-in procedure may lead to probationary sanctions.
5.4 All videotape used for a project, whether owned by the producer or by NPAT must be checked in with the portable equipment and remain shelved at NPAT until such time as the project is completed. The tape may be checked out by the producer for logging or review for up to 48 hrs, but otherwise remain shelved with other works in progress. Longer check-outs are permitted for programs being edited on non-NPAT equipment.
5.5 Equipment is non-transferable, equipment must be checked in by the producer who checked the equipment out, and the producer must sign off on their responsibility for the equipment with a NPAT staff member.
CANCELLATION:
6.0 Cancellation or changes in reservations should be made at least 7 days in advance in order to allow NPAT to make the reserved equipment available to other users.
6.1 In cases of circumstances beyond the producersÕ control requiring cancellation of a portable reservation, notification should be made to NPAT as soon as such circumstances are known.
6.2 Failure to notify in advance of a cancellation is a violation of NPAT policies and procedures and is cause for probationary sanctions.
LATE RETURNS:
7.0 Except under extenuating circumstances. Late return of portable equipment is a violation of NPAT policies and procedures, and can result in probationary sanctions on the late producer.
RESPONSIBILITY OF PRODUCER:
8.0 The producer is responsible for the safety, proper use and care of the equipment while it is signed out to them.
8.1 The producer is financially responsible for the equipment while it is signed out to them.
8.2 The producer is financially responsible for any damage to or theft of the equipment while it is signed out to them.
8.3 The producer is responsible for any claims resulting out of the use of the equipment and promises to indemnify and hold harmless Novato Public Access Television and its Directors, Officers and staff against any such claims arising out of the use of the program material to be cablecast or any breach of the signed producers agreement, including but not limited to any claims in the nature of libel, slander, invasion of privacy or publicity rights, non-compliance with applicable laws, and unauthorized use of copyright material.
8.4 The producer is responsible for continued progress to completion for cablecast as a result of using NPAT equipment and facilities.
VIDEOTAPE POLICIES:
9.0 NPAT requires that all videotape, whether the producers or NPAT's, must remain on NPAT site until the project for which the tape has been used is cablecast.
9.1 A producer may check tapes out to log them or view them for 48 hours at a time.
9.2 All program rights belong to the producer. NPAT recommends that the producer purchase the Master or Edit Master for the finished program to avoid questions of program ownership.
9.3 At the conclusion of a play cycle:
(a) Programs on tape belonging to the producer will be returned to the producer
(b) Programs recorded on tape belonging to NPAT will face a decision making process. The producer may purchase the tape on which the program is recorded at the established price, or the tape with be erased or recycled.
9.4 NPAT will seek to archive significant representative programming produced through NPAT facilities, and will use segments of such archived materiel to prepare demonstration, instructional and sample tapes to conduct NPAT's routine training, outreach and development programs.
Part 5 - EDIT EQUIPMENT USAGE
1.0 Use of NPAT editing equipment or edit suites will follow guidelines set to insure maximization of use, the broadest diversity of use, responsible and safe use, protection of equipment, and orderly, timely and manageable supervision.
1.0 Use of NPAT editing equipment or editing suites must be for the purpose of producing programming for cablecast on the NPAT channels.
The following are not allowed:
(a) Copying or dubbing tapes, except for cable cast. Dubs are done at rate card rates, and will be made by NPAT staff.
(b) Re-editing programs which have already run.
(c) Performing rough edits or pre-edits.
(d) Compiling material that won't be cablecast as a program.
(e) Preparing or editing materials for commercial or private purposes.
1.1 NPAT edit equipment may only be used by a certified producer (see Part 3 above) who assumes responsibility for the equipment and its care during usage, and who has a Producer's Agreement on file in the NPAT offices.
1.2 Dubs of programs edited or produced with NPAT facilities cannot be released until the first cablecast of the program. A producer may have a program dubbed prior to sending it to cablecast, but that dub will not be released until the program is scheduled for cablecast.
2.0 It is expected that a producer scheduling edit time will have thoroughly logged and edit-scripted all original tapes before scheduling the edit session.
7.1 To maximize the use of scarce edit time, it is expected that the edit time will not be used as a time to view and/or log tapes as a time to script the final program. Editors are expected to arrive prepared to put together a finished program.
2.2 Off-Line Edit preparation shall include the following:
(a) For off-line editors, all visual materials must be on videotape at the time of the edit, in a form ready to be edited.
(b) For sound sources other than videotape the producer must, at the time of the edit reservation, make explicit arrangements with NPAT staff. Accessories such as microphones, etc. are subject to movement and checkout and must be reserved specifically for the edit session.
(c) Off-line editing may include limited special effects created with the on-line edit equipment. Special effects training must be completed by the editor in advance of the time the edit reservation is made, and will be considered based on:
(d) Availability of the equipment for such and maximization of its use:
(e) Availability of staff to perform special "set ups" for the session;
(f) Validity of need as represented in the proposal.
2.3 Use of the On-line system (Studio Control Room) will be limited to six (6) hours maximum per thirty (30) minute program, which may be used to augment the maximum of hours spent off-line on the same project. On-line system editors are expected to have completed an advanced edit workshop conducted by NPAT.
2.4 It is the producer's responsibility to make arrangements for an edit master. This may be purchased and retained by the producer, or, given the tape limitations of NPAT, it may be provided by NPAT. In either case, the producer must make specific arrangements.
3.0 Edit equipment may be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis (see Part I above) by written, telephone or in-person request.
3.1 Edit reservations may be made up to sixty (60) days in advance beginning the first day of the month for that month and the month following.
3.2 Time limitations on edit reservations are as follows:
(a) Each edit booking:
(1) Off-Line - (3) hours
(2) On-Line - (3) hours.
(b) Edit hours per program:
(1) Off-Line: A producer has a maximum of nine (9) edit session hours which to complete a program. For a first time producer the first edit session can be considered an extension of the training and does not count with regard to this limitation.
(2) On-Line: Six (6) hours per thirty (30) minute program.
(c) Any project requiring more than the edit hours per project specified above must comply with one of the following:
(1) Submission in writing of a proposal detailing the importance, parameters and nature of the project for which the variance in the rules is sought, and subsequent clearance from the Executive Director.
(2) Payment for rate card rates for any time exceeding the routine limitations at the published access rate.
(d) Short video pieces or music videos must acheive a minimum productivity of one (1) minute of finished product per one (1) hour of edit time or they are not allowable.
3.3 A producer or group may have up to two (2) edit reservations at one time, not to exceed the total amount of equipment use allotted per project (See 3.5 below).
3.4 Series and regular producers may request series editing reservations, depending on the post-production requirements of the program, up to the maximum of 2 three hour sessions per program.
3.5 Reservation of editing equipment included the following specifications:
(a) Date and session starting and ending
(b) Name of the project being edited
(c) Technical or staff support needed, special conditions required, etc.
3.6 Edit reservations are non-transferable. Should the original individual scheduling the edit reservation cancel it, the time will be offered to their producers on a waiting list.
EDIT SESSION:
4.0 Failure to arrive and claim an edit session within fifteen (15) minutes of the scheduled starting time will result in forfeiture of the entire editing time.
4.1 Editors must vacate facilities by the completion of their reserved time unless NPAT staff or the next editor voluntarily grants an extension.
4.2 After the initial edit session after edit training, a NPAT staff member will not spend time with the producer in the edit suite. NPAT strives toward self-sufficiency. The producer may wish or be required to retake the editing training course provided by NPAT.
4.3 Smoke, food, and drink are not permitted in the edit suite at any time.
4.4 At the conclusion of an edit session, it is expected that the edit suite will be left in the same condition as it was turned over to the producer.
(a) All tapes should be boxed properly labeled and properly shelved.
(b) All sources and equipment should be returned to normal, or default positions or locations.
(c) No repatching or rewiring or changes in configuration have occurred
(d) All paper, debris and miscellaneous material should be removed from the suite
(e) Editing station and equipment should be returned to normal plugging, switching, and set up.
CANCELLATIONS:
5.0 Cancellations or changes in the edit reservations must be made at least seven days in advance in order to allow NPAT staff to make the reserved edit suite available to other users.
5.1 Failure to notify in advance of a cancellation is a violation of NPAT policies and procedures and is cause for probationary sanctions.
2.0 To be eligible for studio certification training, you are required to first attend an NPAT orientation session.
2.1 In some cases, groups are eligible to enter into studio certification if they meet all of the criteria below:
(a) They are already a working group
(b) They have a minimum of four (4) crew members
(c) The group has a specific production plan
(d) The group will train as a group and work toward that production goal
2.2 All studio use must be for the purpose of producing a finished program for one of the NPAT channels
2.3 Producing pieces, segments, or other units requiring later post-production is not permitted. It is expected that a finished program will come out of each studio reservation.
2.4 The studio is to be used as-is. Use of additional technical components or arrangements requiring rewiring or reconfiguration must be cleared in advance with NPAT and the Executive Director. TECHNICAL RECONFIGURING IS CAUSE FOR IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF NPAT PRIVILEGES.
2.5 All equipment, including console, monitors, tripods, cameras, decks, audio equipment and accessories are to remain in the studio. At no time can any of this equipment be checked out for production in any place other than the studio.
2.6 Smoking, drinking, or eating are prohibited in the studio and control room areas. Glasses of water for the talent are permitted on the studio floor.
2.7 Broken or malfunctioning equipment or systems are to be reported to NPAT staff immediately.
2.8 Studio groups are limited to five (5) people, unless cleared in advance by the Executive Director.
2.9 After each production, producers and volunteers must clean up production materials and return the studio to the condition in which they found it. The producer is ultimately responsible for the condition of the studio after the production.
3.0 Reservations of the studio may be made up to sixty (60) days in advance beginning on the first day of the month for that month and the month following.
3.1 Reservations can be made by phone, by mail or in person.
3.2 The maximum time allowed for a studio production is three (3) hours. This includes set up, production, post-production and strike time.
(a) A producer cannot use the studio in advance of the scheduled three (3) hour block except in cases where a special request is made and approved by the Executive Director.
(b) A producer must return the studio to "normal" by the end of the reserved three (3) hour block of time.
3.3 The maximum number of reservations allowed to complete a single program for cablecast is two (2) three (3) hour blocks.
3.4 A producer, group or project is limited to two studio reservations at a time unless that producer has a series contract on file with NPAT (see Part 1, section 3.6). No additional studio reservations may be made until the existing reservations have been completed.
(a) No reservations may be made if the producer has any production that is considered by NPAT as overdue.
3.5 Studio reservations (may) require a minimum crew of four (4) studio certified people. Additional crew may be required by the NPAT supervisor depending on the complexity of the production. All crew must be studio certified by NPAT unless an exception has been approved by the NPAT supervisor.
3.6 Each production, whether by a group, organization or individual, must have a single "lead producer" who takes the responsibility for the reservation serves as the coordinator and contact person and deals with NPAT in all phases of the production.
3.7 Studio program ideas must be approved by the NPAT staff. Staff approval will not be impacted by program content, but rather is to insure the technical expectations are consistent with NPAT equipment and facilities capabilities.
3.8 All cancellations must be made at least seven (7) days in advance to avoid cancellation penalty of forfeiture of next studio reservation.
3.9 Studio reservations are non-transferable.
STUDIO USE:
4.0 Crew and talent should not arrive earlier than the scheduled beginning of the reservation time unless specific arrangements have been made and cleared by NPAT staff. NPAT does not have space to accommodate early arrivals, rehearsals, etc.
4.1 NPAT staff will work with the lead producer and serve as engineer for the production.
4.2 NPAT staff WILL NOT serve as crew for a production. It is expected that the producer will provide the entire crew necessary for the production to be done. NPAT assumes no responsibility for program production.
4.3 If less than the required number of crew members necessary to accomplish the shoot designated show up for the reservation, the NPAT supervisor may, at their discretion, choose to cancel the shoot.
4.4 The lead producer is responsible for the conduct of crew and talent involved in the production and for the orderly and safe operation of the studio equipment and use of NPAT facilities.
4.5 All additional equipment and accessories needed in a studio shoot are to be checked out to the user responsible by a NPAT staff and are not to be simply appropriated because of their proximity to studio production.
4.6 Production is to be done, as much as possible, as a ÒLIVE'' production, starting at the beginning and running through to the end without a break if possible. NO POST PRODUCTION IS EXPECTED AFTER A STUDIO PRODUCTION. The editor in the studio console allows for putting segments together as the production progresses.
(a) For the purpose of producing roll-in material, a maximum of one camcorder use (24 hours max), and one edit use (3 hrs max.) may occur for a studio program. Extended use for magazine formats will be considered.
4.7 A studio shoot must be completed on time unless specifically authorized by NPAT. The studio must be cleared (see below) no later than the end of the reservation.
4.8 In transferring the studio from one user to the next the following should be observed:
(a) All sets and properties must be struck and removed from NPAT
(b) All camera cables should be coiled and in appropriate places.
(c) Cameras should be properly capped and parked out of the way.
(d) All headsets should be stored on cameras. Floor managerÕs headset should be returned to its position.
(e) Lights should be returned to normal positions and turned off.
(f) Microphones should be turned off, replaced in their boxes and checked in to the NPAT supervisor.
(g) Audio cables should be properly coiled, bound up and returned to their proper place.
(h) Chairs are to be stacked and NPAT furniture is to be returned to proper places in or out of studio.
(i) Floor of studio should be clear of debris.
(j) All tapes are to be removed from machines in the control room, boxed in their proper boxes and properly labeled with NPAT labels and shelved in the appropriate place.
(k) Audio CD's are to be removed from the machines and stored or removed from the premises.
(l) All "work in progress" including graphics, tapes, music, sets, props, etc. must be removed by the user.
(m) The area should be clear of everything and ready for the next user.
Part 7 - USER SANCTIONS
1.0 To ensure that NPAT equipment and facilities remain in good working order, are available to the broadest possible range of producers, and that equipment and facilities are used in such a manner as to fulfill the mandate under which NPAT was created. NPAT reserves the right to refuse services on a temporary or permanent basis or otherwise initiate suspensions of services, disciplinary actions, sanctions or other legal action against individuals or organizations interfering with or jeopardizing NPAT's operations or otherwise violating the NPAT Policies and Procedures under which NPAT provides training, equipment, facilities, channel space and other services.
2.0 NPAT may require that an individual or individuals leave NPAT premises immediately as follows:
2.1 If an individual appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or consumes, sells or dispenses illegal drugs on NPAT or NUSD premises.
2.2 If an individual or individuals interfere(s) with the orderly conduct of NPAT activities, facilities or programs.
2.3 If an individual smokes while in non-smoking designated area of NPAT facilities. All of NPAT is considered a non-smoking designated area.
3.0 Suspension of privileges or refusal of service based on disciplinary action may be initiated by NPAT staff immediately, in addition to legal and other remedies as determined by the NPAT Board of Directors.
3.1 Misuse or abuse of equipment or failure to maintain NPAT equipment or facilities.
3.2 Theft or vandalism of property, equipment, leased property or premises.
3.3 Failure to return equipment through intent, negligence, loss or theft.
3.4 Making false or misleading statements on applications or other NPAT documents.
3.5 Use of equipment or facilities for commercial or profit-making purposes without specific contractual approval in advance for such use with the NPAT Executive Director.
3.6 Use of equipment and/or facilities for any purpose not related to the production of programs for cablecast on the NPAT channels.
3.7 Removal of equipment from the equipment storage area without prior Check-Out procedures and/or without signing an Equipment Request Form.
3.8 Attempted disassembly, repair or tampering with NPAT equipment.
3.9 Use by a non-certified producer or use by a certified producer on probation of equipment checked out to a certified producer.
3.10 Chronic or willful disregard for NPAT Policies and Procedures.
3.11 Abuse or harassment of NPAT staff, volunteers, or others at the facility.
3.12 Reservation of equipment or facilities by one party who does not intend to use the equipment themselves but "fronts" for another party (both parties involved will be held accountable for the offense).
3.13 Owing funds to NPAT for any reason, including but not limited to failure to pay for equipment damage or submitting a check with insufficient funds.
3.14 Failure to submit a program for initial cablecasting on the NPAT channels after using allotted equipment.
3.15 Repeated abuse or harassment.
4.0 Suspension of privileges and refusal of services shall be called "Probation".
4.1 Major offenses result in immediate suspension of privileges for one (1) year and appropriate legal action.
4.2 In the case of a Major offense the Executive Director shall notify the violator by certified mail within thirty (30) days of the sanctions resultant from the offense, and the NPAT Board of Directors shall be so advised.
4.3 Any user against whom the Executive Director has imposed sanctions may file an appeal of the decision to the Board of Directors within ten (10) days of notification of such sanctions.
4.4. The Board of Directors may choose or refuse to hear an appeal of the event of sanctions after investigating the circumstances of the violation. In the event of a public hearing with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director shall make a presentation on the circumstances of the violation and the action taken, and the user will make a presentation of appeal. The Board may decide to:
(a) sustain the decision of the Executive Director.
(b) make alternative determinations.
4.5 Determination of the Board of Directors of NPAT in matters of refusal of services, sanctions or other actions are final and is not subject to review by any other body or individual.
5.0 The Executive Director may impose a temporary suspension of access privileges or impose probationary sanctions in cases of:
5.1 Failure to cancel or claim a reservation of equipment or facilities time prior to the time reserved.
5.2 Late return of equipment without authorized extension.
5.3 Return of functional but dirty equipment.
5.4 Operation of equipment or facilities in an incorrect, unsafe or inappropriate manner, whereby damage might result to NPAT equipment or facilities;
5.5 Improper packaging of equipment for transport;
5.6 Drinking or eating in the control room, equipment room or other restricted areas.
5.7 Minor abuse or harassment.
6.0 Disciplinary actions for minor offenses are imposed by the Executive Director after consultation with the staff and user are as follows:
a) First offense results in a verbal warning;
b) Second offense results in a written warning by the Executive Director;
c) Third offense results in a 90 day probation and suspension from use of equipment and facilities;
d) Fourth offense results in a 1 year probation;
e) Fifth offense results in permanent suspension of access privileges.
6.1 Other sanctions to prescribed by the Executive Director may include but are not limited to:
a) Requirement for re-attending orientation sessions;
b) Requirements of demonstrated proficiencies or understandings;
c) Short term probationary periods.
6.2 The Executive Director shall notify, in writing, the violator in a Minor offense of the sanctions and/or disciplinary action resultant from the offense within thirty (30) days of such offense. Notification shall also indicate any conditions for reinstatement of privileges.
6.3 Any user against whom the Executive Director has imposed probationary sanctions or disciplinary action may file an appeal of the decision to the Board of Directors within ten (10) days of notification of such sanctions or disciplinary action.
6.4 The Board of Directors may choose to hear or refuse to hear an appeal of discipline or sanctions after investigation the circumstances of the violation. In public hearing with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director or NPAT staff shall make a presentation on the circumstances of the violation and the disciplinary action taken, and the user may make a presentation at the hearing. Board of Directors may decide:
a) To sustain the sanctions imposed
b) To make alternative determinations.
6.5 Determinations of the Board of Directors of NPAT in matters of refusal of services, disciplinary action, probationary sanctions or other actions are final and is not subject to review by any other body or individual.
Subject: NPAT: Policies and
Procedures
Part 8 - PROGRAM CONTENT
1.0 NPAT's mandate is to encourage open and non-discriminatory access to the cable system, and to distribute programming which is responsive to the diverse needs and interests of residents of Novato.
2.0 NPAT program content guidelines are set up to insure maximization of use and orderly, timely and manageable supervision. All use of the access channels must conform to local, state and federal laws with respect to program content.
3.0 Liability for program content rests fully with the program producer.
3.1 Neither the cable television company or access corporation whose facilities are used to transmit a program produced by a person other than such cable company, and access corporation, nor the officers, directors or employees of any such cable television company or access corporation shall be liable for damages arising from any obscene or defamatory statements or actions or invasion of privacy occurring during any program when such company or corporation does not originate or produce such program.
4.0 Programming cablecast on the NPAT community access channels is prohibited from containing:
(a) Any material that is libelous, slanderous, or unlawful invasion of privacy;
(b) Any material that violates state or federal law relating to obscenity;
(c) Any material contrary to local, state, or federal laws, regulations, procedures, and policy:
(d) Any advertising or materials that promotes any commercial product or service for private gain. Paid sponsorship of access programs may be acknowledged by a single visual credit at the beginning and/or end of the program (see below: Program Support Policy);
(e) Any solicitation or appeal for funds except by NPAT to support its ability to serve the public:
(f) Any unlawful use of copyrighted material. Liability for such unauthorized use shall rest solely with the producer. The producer further agrees to hold harmless the cable company, access corporation and their officers, directors or employees for any damages arising from such use.
4.1 Only programs produced by NPAT as authorized by NPAT's Executive Director can be identified as NPAT productions. The use of NPAT logo or call letters may not be used by access producers in their individual promotion of their programs.
4.2 All tapes produced with NPAT equipment must state: "Produced through the facilities of Novato Public Access Television ÒNPAT" and list the community producer as the copyright holder. All subsequent use or showings, either on the channel or for other purposes, must credit NPAT accordingly.
5.0 Copyright of program content rests with the producer, regardless of who owns the physical videotape on which it is recorded.
5.1 The program producer assumes full legal responsibility for obtaining releases necessary for copyrighted materials (such as music) and for obtaining clearances for personal appearances.
6.0 Distribution of programming which has been produced through NPAT's facilities is restricted as follows:
(a) NPAT has the right of first and subsequent showings on its channels:
(b) NPAT has the right to keep a copy for archives purposes:
(c) NPAT has the right to use the program and excerpts for promotional purposes:
(d) NPAT reserves the right to distribute the program to other access centers for cablecasting:
(e) The distribution of programming produced through NPAT, whether free of charge or by rental or sale must have the prior approval of NPAT.
7.0 Users of NPAT production equipment and services are encouraged to seek grants and sponsorship support for their productions to help defray production costs, but must do so under strict guidelines.
7.1 Commercial advertising is prohibited on the access channels. Using PBS standards as a model, acknowledgment of corporate or business support can be presented only at the beginning and/or end of each program. Each acknowledgment is limited to 10 seconds in duration and may include the company name, logo and a thank-you. No call to action, phone number or statements of judgment (i.e. "best, biggest, etc.) can be included.
7.2 Underwriting information must be indicated on the request for playback form (with specific information attached) and underwriting donations must be limited to direct costs associated with the production. NPAT requests that producers contribute 10% of their underwriting support Novato Public Access Television to help offset access operational costs.
7.3 NPAT reserves the right to approve or disapprove of any funding proposals using the NPAT name or including use of NPAT resources. Such proposals must be cleared through Novato Public Access Television prior to submission. More complete underwriting guidelines and examples are available from NPAT.
7.4 For-profit organizations, businesses and individuals obtaining grants to produce shows and use NPAT equipment and/or studios will be subject to production fees. These fees will be discussed with the Executive Director in advance of the production.
Subject: NPAT: Policies and
Procedures
Part 9 - PROGRAM SCHEDULING
1.0 Use of NPAT channel space will be available on a first-come, first-served basis within the parameters of overall program composition and flow, considerations of audience-building, constraints of schedule building with regard to series, live feeds and special events, and the representative diversity of programming on the NPAT channels. NPAT, at its discretion, may impose reasonable limitations to assure fair access by all to NPAT facilities and to provide for diverse and viable channel traffic.
2.0 In order to obtain a specific channel time for videotape and/or live programming, an eligible user must submit a Playback and Time Slot Request form detailing the following:
2.1 Selection of date, time, and channel.
(a) NPAT will attempt to honor one of the three choices indicated.
(b) When a first, second or third choice of channel space is not available. NPAT will schedule the program at its sole discretion.
(c) When a program provider does not request specific dates, time or channel. NPAT will schedule the program at its sole discretion.
(d) NPAT reserves the right to additional plays of the program provided.
2.2 Producer/User Information
(a) Name and signature of person requesting the channel space and taking responsibility for the program.
(b) Affiliation with group or producing organization.
(c) Address of program provider for subsequent mailing of program playback schedule.
(d) Phone number of program provider for reference.
(e) Signed acknowledgement of compliance with Program Content policies and guidelines.
2.3 Program Information
(a) Official Title of the program or series:
(b) Description of the program suitable for program listing or promotion:
(c) NPAT "Tape Label" including indication of ownership:
(d) Format of program to be cablecast:
(e) Precise leader length (start of program) and program length in minutes and seconds.
2.4 NPAT clearances and other information
(a) Clearances for repeat playback, bicycling to other systems, archiving, inclusion of excerpts in NPAT samplers or feature in NPAT program guide.
(b) Date of request.
(c) Requested return date.
3.0 Programs cablecast on the NPAT channels will be subject to certain minimal technical and format standards as set forth from time to time by NPAT.
3.1 Programs must play back on NPAT machines.
3.2 Programs may be up to 120 minutes except as approved by the Executive Director. NPAT has no minimum length for programming.
4.0 All videotaped and/or live programming cablecast on the NPAT channels must clearly identify the producer, origination of the program to be cablecast and/or the name of the eligible NPAT user submitting the program for cablecast at the beginning or end of the program.
5.0 Programming not produced through NPAT facilities must be submitted by a resident of Novato.
5.1 Programming not produced through NPAT facilities must meet technical standards for NPAT cablecast, including format and playback standards.
5.2 Programming not produced through NPAT facilities must be accompanied by fully completed and signed "Producer's Agreement" form to be considered for cablecast.
5.3 The eligible person submitting programming not produced through NPAT facilities must acknowledge compliance with all program content policies, rules and guidelines of NPAT as well as knowledge of and responsibility for the content of the program under consideration for cablecast.
5.4 At no time will programming produced by non-residents of Novato comprise more than 95% of the total program time scheduled during a month unless approved by the NPAT Board of Directors (See also Reservation of Channel Space 5.6. Scheduling Priorities 10.1)
5.5 In all instances of competing requests for channel or playback time, priority will be given to locally produced programming.
5.6 The number of program repeats may be limited to give priority to first-run programming and is at the discretion of NPAT.
6.0 To allow for regularly produced programming aired at a consistent time on regular days of the week, or regular biweekly or monthly days and times, NPAT will enter into contracts with Producers/Providers for series programming within the constraints of the following guidelines.
6.1 To be eligible to enter into a contract with NPAT for a series, a Producer/Provider of programming must have demonstrated the ability to produce programming of consistent quality in a timely manner. Determinations regarding eligibility will be made by NPAT's Executive Director.
6.2 Permits a series maximum of 13 weeks duration, a maximum of 2 times slots per week. At least 1 time slot must be for the first play (original showing) of a tape, and the second time slot may be used for a repeat of that program.
6.3 Dates of series contracts are within two Òseason's" a year:
á Jan 1 - June 30
á July 1 – December 31
6.4 If a series user fails to produce any two installations for a series, the series will be cancelled and the user will not be granted a series time in the future without the permission of the Executive Director. Factors in the determination are:
a) The ability of the Producer/Provider to deliver the programs in a regular, timely and consistent fashion:
b) The overall program quality and production value of the series:
c) The expressed desire/ability of the Producer/Provider to continue the series:
d) Other requests for channel space or facilities utilized by the series Producer/Provider
e) The overall program mix on NPAT channels.
6.5 The producer must specify which tape should be used as a backup in case the regular program cannot, for any reason, be cablecast: otherwise NPAT will not show anything from the producer in its place. If the producer misses providing a new show more than twice, NPAT may cancel the series.
6.6 Tapes must be retrieved no later than thirty (30) days after the seasons end or they may be erased for use by the public. Producers may pick up tapes after their final play on NPAT.
7.0 Qualifications:
a) To be eligible for live program scheduling on the NPAT channels, a user must have been studio certified by NPAT in studio operations.
b) To be eligible to schedule live programming a producer must have demonstrated the ability to coordinate and produce quality programs in a consistent and timely fashion, and must have taken a lead role in minimum of two studio productions undertaken through NPAT facilities. Determination for qualification is made by the NPAT staff.
7.1 Scheduling:
a) Live programming by eligible NPAT users is scheduled on a first-come first-serve basis.
b) As with all programming scheduling, NPAT at its discretion, may impose reasonable limitations consistent with:
á Overall program composition and flow
á Consideration of audience building
á Constraints of schedule building with regard to series or other special programming
á Representative diversity of programming
c) In requests for live programming on a series basis, the rules series programming outlined in 5.0 above apply.
d) A channel time slot for live programming must be requested at least two (2) weeks but no more than eight (8) weeks in advance. At the time of the request, a completed studio request form and a live request form must be submitted to the NPAT staff.
7.2 Defaults: Producers of live programming on the NPAT channels will be considered in default of their live programming contract and may have reservations cancelled and/or be restricted from live programming completely for any of the following:
a) Having inadequate crew to successfully fulfill the obligation to produce the scheduled programming;
b) Lateness;
c) Poor performance and resultant poor quality of programming:
d) Content violations occurring during live programming.
8.0 Alphanumeric and/or bulletin board messages must be submitted on the proper form.
8.1 All alphanumeric messages to appear on NPAT channels must comply in full with all program content regulations spelled out elsewhere in NPAT's policies and procedures.
8.2 Alphanumeric messages are limited under the guidelines spelled out above in Part 1.
9.0 Commensurate with policies spelled out above in Part 1 regarding reservation of channel space. NPAT maintains the following general priorities for scheduling programming on the NPAT channels:
a) Locally produced programming is always the highest priority.
b) New programs will be favored over repeat programs.
c) Building a regular viewership with a viable programming schedule will be a high priority in matters of NPAT channel reservation.
d) NPAT has final authority in all scheduling determinations.
10.0 NPAT schedules programming on a regular basis. To facilitate more timely programs a minimum of one hour per scheduled day will be set aside as ÒREQUEST TVÓ. This hour will be scheduled on a first come first served basis.
10.1 NPAT will maintain a record of all ÒREQUEST TVÓ requests including name, phone number, date and time of request, name of program, and date and time of scheduled playback.
10.2 No individual or group may make more than one request at a time.
10.3 No individual or group may make an additional request until the first request has been fulfilled.
Subject: NPAT: Policies and
Procedures
1.0 NPAT has established these policies and procedures to provide for open access to access channel, facilities, equipment supplies, and training on a non-discriminatory basis. NPAT may dedicate segments of Access channel time to particular or related subject matters or uses.
2.0 PROCEDURES FOR MODIFYING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
2.1 Suggestions for policy change must be submitted in writing and may come from the general public, NPAT Executive Director, or from NPAT Board.
2.2 A review of the written suggestion will be made by the Board of Directors no later than the second meeting after the request has been received. The decision of the NPAT Board of Directors is final.
2.3 The Board of Directors may conduct a hearing to reconsider the policy dispute, or may require further written supporting evidence or rationale from the person proposing.
2.4 The NPAT Board of Directors may, from time to time at its sole discretion, modify or change these policies and procedures.
Subject: NPAT Policies and
Procedures
Part 11 – EXCEPTIONS
1.0 Exceptions to NPAT Policies and Procedures regarding the use of NPAT facilities, equipment and channels must be made by the Executive Director in advance of the reservation for which the exceptions are requested.
2.0 Consideration will be given to written proposals for exceptions. Such proposals will contain the following:
(a) A statement of overall project goals;
(b) A statement of special circumstances requiring exceptions:
(c) A budgetary statement of costs involved in the project, including staff-time, equipment-time, materials involved, and any other costs or in-kind costs involved.
(d) A statement of reasons for requesting exceptions.
Part 12 - POLICY FOR POLITICAL PROGRAMMING
1.0 The NPAT Board of Directors has adopted the following policy for political programming. Novato Public Access Television (NPAT) believes our Policies and Procedures to be "content neutral." Political programming should be treated like any other programming cablecast on. However, in an effort to bring fairness and order to a potentially chaotic situation. NPAT has established the following voluntary guidelines we encourage candidates to abide by.
2.0 Campaign Period - The "Campaign Period" for the purposes of NPAT, shall be defined as beginning on Monday of the first full week, 8 weeks prior to elections.
2.1 Political Programming - "Political Programming" is a program or programs produced specifically for a candidate or candidates during the election period.
2.2 Candidate - A candidate is any individual who will appear on a ballot.
3.0 All political programming is subject to the policies and procedures set forth in the most recently approved NPAT Policies and Procedures manual.
3.1 Series producers may choose to have candidates for office as guests on their program. If a candidate has an ongoing series program, a substitute host should be found for the campaign period, or ask that the program be pulled from the schedule for the campaign period.
3.2 Candidacy Announcement - Each candidate may announce his/her candidacy in a five-minute statement to be televised on a rotating basis with the announcements of other candidates in random time-slots throughout the first three weeks of the campaign period. All announcements received by the beginning of the campaign period will be televised an equal number of times. Equal time for announcements taped after the beginning of the campaign period begins upon the day the late announcement is received. Candidates may book a studio reservation for this announcement as early as the first Monday of the campaign period.
3.3 Meet The Candidates - NPAT will televise one "Meet The Candidates" tape for each candidate, not to exceed 30 minutes in total length,
(a) This tape will be scheduled together and played as a block equally and repeatedly throughout the campaign period.
(b) If a party chooses not to produce a second program, the first will continue to play. If a new program is produced, the first program will not be repeated.
(c) If a party or independent candidate has not produced a program prior to the beginning of various time frames, those programs that have been produced will be televised. Equal time for the late program will begin at the time the late program is received.
3.3. NPAT will televise Candidates Forums as sponsored or organized by an outside non-biased a political group; i.e. League of Women Voters, Novato Democrats Club. NPAT will make every effort to televise these programs live. They will also be repeated throughout the campaign period.
3.4 NPAT may excerpt from any or all programs for use in recorded or live election coverage. Other producers must get the permission of the candidate or party to use excerpts of these programs.
3.5 Political programming is ineligible for "Request TV" slots during the campaign period.
3.6 If a candidate chooses not to follow the voluntary guidelines, that candidate shall be excluded from all the above programming.
3.7 This policy shall be administered by the NPAT Executive Director.