OJAI : Group Seeks More Access to Channel

A group of Ventura County Cablevision customers in the Ojai Valley wants to increase public access to cable Channel 8.

A dozen people met Monday night at the Ojai Art Center to discuss a plan by Carole Ewing-McCartney, an independent video producer, to produce a 30-minute program.

The show, tentatively named the “Topa Topa Review,” would examine cultural, environmental and other issues affecting cable customers in the Ojai Valley.

Production would be handled by local volunteers.

An official of Ventura County Cablevision in Thousand Oaks said his company has not been contacted by the Ojai group, but that the company supports the idea of increased public access.

Spokesman Johnnie Giles said company officials are willing to discuss equipment, scheduling and training with Ojai officials and citizens.

“We do have equipment available for loan, “ Giles said, “and will teach volunteers how to use the equipment.”

The group also discussed televising the meetings of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and other agencies. The Ojai City Council is the only panel whose meetings are televised by the cable company to Ojai-area customers.

Ewing-McCartney met with Ojai City Manager Andy Belknap last week to discuss the proposed show.

In a letter, Belknap said the city would be “very interested and supportive” of efforts to increase public access to cable.

The group plans to hold a second meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. June 17 at the Ojai Art Center.