Why does AOTV need to fundraise?

AOTV is one of approximately 200 PEG Access Stations in Massachusetts. PEG stands for Public, Educational, and Governmental. As important as the AOTV Annual Auction is in our fundraising, the vast majority, over 80% of AOTV’s annual income is from fees paid by Spectrum based upon the number of cable subscribers in Athol and Orange.

As people seek other viewing options, such as streaming or canceling their cable service entirely, the direct effect to AOTV is a continued decline in our largest source of income.

Since reaching a high in 2016-2017, Athol and Orange Cable subscribers have declined by more than one-third. During this time period, AOTV has increased production and broadcasting of more local programming, including governmental meetings such as annual town meetings, selectboard, finance, and school committee meetings.

In addition to the station’s operating expenses, the building and site require constant preventative maintenance. Conservative financial management has allowed the station to recently conduct major infrastructure repairs without the need to borrow funds. AOTV produces and broadcasts local sports, local happenings, self-produced programming, as well as syndicated programming. Classes to learn video and audio skills are also offered.