By Joe Stewart

As the landscape of media consumption shifts, local public access stations are feeling the pinch. Wrentham Community Media (formerly Wrentham Cable 8) is no exception, facing a 14% decline in funding since 2017 due to the nationwide trend of “cord-cutting” -- viewers abandoning traditional cable subscriptions for streaming services. In response, the nonprofit is reinventing itself, improving programming, and reaching out to the community for support.  

Wrentham Community Media (WCM) operates four cable channels: Public (Channel 8 Comcast/39 Verizon), Educational (Channel 6 Comcast/37 Verizon), Government (Channel 22 Comcast/38 Verizon), and an upcoming HD/VOD channel. Additionally, the organization has expanded into audio broadcasting with Wrentham Radio 8, an internet radio station that streams local programming, music, and event coverage. This multi-platform approach allows WCM to serve diverse audience preferences across both traditional and digital media.

A Struggle for Sustainability

Public access stations like WCM rely on franchise fees from cable providers—typically $3 to $4 per subscriber—which in WCM’s case generate around $200,000 annually. But as cable subscriptions dwindle, so does funding. Executive Director Liz Harkins noted in an interview that while costs rise, revenue continues to drop, forcing many PEG (Public, Educational, and Governmental) access stations across Massachusetts to scale back or close.  

A New Strategy: Quality Over Quantity

Rather than cutting services, WCM has revamped its approach, focusing on high-quality event coverage. A standout example was this year’s King Philip Regional High School commencement, filmed with multiple cameras to create a polished keepsake for graduates. The station continues to broadcast town meetings free of charge while introducing modest subscription fees for specialized content, expected to launch by late August.  

The station is expanding into podcasting, multimedia production, and educational programs, with Member Services Coordinator Rachel Bartlett assisting residents in production training and support. Harkins noted that a new partnership with King Philip High School will offer journalism and production internships this fall, further strengthening ties with the community. 

Open House Fundraiser: A Call for Support 

To raise awareness—and much-needed funds—WCM is hosting an Open House on September 20 from noon to 4 p.m., featuring Dance and Beyond at 1 p.m., live music, a dunk tank with local leaders (including State Rep. Marcus Vaughn, Police Chief Bill McGrath, Select Board Chair Chris Gallo, and Town Moderator Ed Goddard), and participation from Wrentham’s Department of Public Works and the Fiske Library.  

Harkins emphasized that the open house offers residents a firsthand look at the station’s work and underscores the importance of public access media. She added that community support is vital for sustaining local programs, sports coverage, and engaging the community in its government.

Looking Ahead 

This fall, WCM plans to continue coverage of municipal meetings, Town Meeting, and high school sports—football, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, and more—through a collaboration with NorthTV (North Attleboro’s public access franchise, which also serves Plainville). By pooling resources and often deploying multiple cameras at events, the partnership aims to deliver higher-quality broadcasts.

Harkins encouraged residents to reach out to Bartlett for training and technical assistance for podcasts, video projects, and post-production work. Bartlett also helps residents develop their own programming ideas into broadcast-ready content, furthering the station’s mission to amplify local voices.

Harkins stressed that while the organization continues to adapt to financial challenges, long-term sustainability requires greater community involvement. She noted that public media institutions can only thrive with active public participation and support.

For details on the September 20 Open House, visit https://wrenthamcable8.com/ or contact [email protected]. Wrentham Cable Access is located at 686 West Street.