JCTV wins public support

Tax levy stays same after no comment

Several people spoke Monday in favor of continued funding for JCTV, which is facing an elimination of its funding under Jefferson City's proposed 2014 budget.

More than 40 people attended the City Council meeting Monday, with 12 speaking during the public hearing on the city budget. All but three spoke in favor of JCTV.

City officials have yet to finalize the proposed 2014 budget, but as it stands the station is slated to lose its $110,000 of city funds. Station Manager Gloria Enloe said the station has raised about $10,000 in donations and memberships so far this year and is working toward new agreements with the Jefferson City High School and other groups.

Enloe said the station provides many services for Lincoln University, its students and the city.

"JCTV's funding is in danger," Enloe said. "We are a digital playground for the public."

Lincoln University President Kevin Rome said though he understands how difficult budgets can be, he would ask the city to think about the relationship it wants with the university and urged council members to consider the service JCTV provides.

"I would like to see that relationship grow and flourish," Rome said. "When you invest in Lincoln University, you invest in the community."

Mike Downey, general manager of KJLU, said the KJLU and JCTV represent the only two locally owned media in Jefferson City and noted the service is essential to those who use it.

"You have no idea what you're going to miss until it's gone," Downey said.

Jonathon Jackson said he is a Lincoln University student and asked the council on behalf of journalism students to keep the funding, adding students use JCTV to help prepare for their careers.

"It is one of the few ways we have to build a rapport with the community," Jackson said. "It's a great resource to have as a student."

The city also held a public hearing on the tax levy before approving this year's rate. No one spoke during the property tax rate hearing and the city approved the 46-cent rate, leaving it unchanged from last year.

Others who spoke during the meeting thanked the council for keeping the city's transit system fully funded.

Glen Costales urged the city to search every department for "mission creep," and to look for contract that should not be funded or renewed, giving the example of the city's $25,000 contract with a lobbying firm.

The council will continue budget discussion Aug. 26.