Wadsworth Community Television expects to move to its new headquarters in the city's new Community Center the week of February 25 and to begin producing from that location March 4.
WCTV has been located in the basement of City Hall since its former home at Wadsworth High School was razed as part of the project to build a new high school-community center facility.
The Community Center, located on School Drive, was officially dedicated February 4 but some entities had begun operating earlier in the new building. The YMCA opened its doors for business December 15; the Soprema Senior Center, January 4; and the Summa Health Center, February 4. The Wadsworth Library will also occupy a 400-square-foot section of the Community Center with computer workstations and a place to pick up and return library items. WCTV will be the last to occupy its designated space in the new building.
WCTV broadcasts on three local channels: 15,16,17 and 18. Channel 15 is dedicated to programs produced by the public; 16, programs concerning the city's education system; 17, government-oriented programs; and 18, referred to as video vendor, provides opportunities for local businesses to advertise for a fee.
Residents have the opportunity to produce their shows through WCTV at no cost by using the studio and equipment with training to operate the equipment.
WCTV began operating in 1983 and produces nearly 2,000 new programs yearly with over 20,000 hours of programming. It will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year in its new home.
WatchTVeverywhere is one of the services provided through WCTV. This service allows users to access programs through mobile phones, tablets and computers. In addition, programs produced by WCTV can be accessed long after it is aired on TV through http://my.pegcentral.com" target="_blank">my.pegcentral.com, where up to 500 programs are stored for access.
The new studio will include offices, storage for up to 20,000 DVDs, a studio, control room and a control room above the gymnasium from where numerous sporting events are produced.
City Council and Planning Commission meetings are broadcasted live on WCTV and most other meetings, including those of committees and the school board meetings are broadcasted on a delayed basis. Most local athletic events are also broadcasted through WCTV.
In addition to WCTV, the city's communications department also includes Internet, home area network and internet-based telephone service. Service Director Chris Easton said the city expects to be "aggressive" this year in promoting its cable, Internet, home area network and internet-based telephone services.
