For the presentation of programming on one public access channel, the franchisee shall provide one dedicated, noncommercial public access channel available without charge at all times on a first come, first served non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable technical assistance, where necessary, shall also be furnished by the franchisee. The franchisee shall endeavor to make the channel available to as many different persons as is practical, it being the intention of the Fiscal Court that the public access channel serve as a significant source of diversified expression. In order that there be a maximum opportunity for freedom of expression by members of the public, the programming shall be free from any control by a franchisee as to program content, except as is required to protect a franchisee from liability under applicable law. The Fiscal Court may direct that a franchisee discontinue, or not deliver, a program on the public channel which it finds to be essentially promotional or otherwise related primarily to the conduct of a business, trade or profession; provided, however, that this provision shall not be construed as a prohibition of advertiser-supported programming on the public channel.
(Ord. 400.450.1, passed 10-17-1980)