Wilmington commits $20K to DETV as Public Access TV faces funding challenges

April Johnson and Ivan Thomas of DETV – Wilmington Cable, Video and Telecommunications Commission Meeting on Fri. Feb. 28th

WILMINGTON-  City officials have addressed concerns and assured the community that public access tv will remain a vital resource. 

In response to ongoing discussions and circulating information regarding DETV’s role as the City of Wilmington’s Third-Party Operator (TPO) for Comcast Channel 28, the CVT Commission has released a statement to provide full transparency.

Despite facing financial constraints, Wilmington’s leadership—including the City Council and the Cable, Video, and Telecommunications (CVT) Commission—remains dedicated to sustaining public access programming. However, as Comcast cable subscriptions continue to decline, the CVT Fund is projected to experience a $2.1 million shortfall over the next five years, making operational adjustments.

Since the funding for the TPO is directly tied to cable subscriptions, the CVT Fund has been shrinking, requiring adjustments to maintain financial sustainability. Given this funding challenge, the CVT Commission made the decision to renegotiate its agreement with DETV.

Under the new terms, DETV will maintain full access to Comcast Channel 28 and continue serving as the city’s public access provider. The primary modification concerns DETV’s second studio, located on the third floor of its existing building.

During the Wilmington Cable, Video, and Telecommunications Commission meeting on Friday, February 28, officials confirmed that the transition from the third-floor studio to the first floor will take effect on March 31. 

“We’ve been providing an outstanding service for this city– we didn’t ask to be moved to the third floor,” said Ivan Thomas Executive Director at DETV.

While DETV will absorb some costs, the city has also committed to exploring the possibility of donating equipment to the DTV Foundation. Concerns were raised about the tight 30-day transition timeline and the financial burdens DETV has faced in the past.

“Some of this has been unfair. So we understand if, the city can’t pay for it, we will find something else, but give us some time and help us out. We’ve done a lot for the city during a pandemic, during the recession, doing everything, keeping people informed,” Thomas said. 

To address these concerns, agreement to support DETV with a reimbursement up to $20,000 for any unexpected costs associated with the move.  Any additional costs beyond this amount will require further approval.

“I‘m going to make sure that we do everything that we can to ensure that there are not any of these additional costs, if possible.” said Elijah Simmons, City Council Chief of Staff, serving on the CVT commissioner board. 

Claudia Estrada

Claudia is a Philadelphia-based journalist and reporter passionate about storytelling that informs and engages the community. Claudia, a proud Temple University graduate, has built a career covering impactful stories and creating compelling content across digital and print media platforms. With a strong background in writing, editing, and research, Claudia has worked on various topics, from local news to in-depth features, always striving to deliver meaningful and accurate reporting.