Beginning in the spring of 2017, the LTC Board of Directors undertook a strategic planning process with consultant Eric Curtis of Curtis Strategy. The planning process was very valuable for assessing the community’s perceptions of LTC and its demand for services. Mr. Curtis ran 8 community focus groups over the summer, involving 100 participants. The resulting Strategic Plan gives LTC a road map for the next three years, during which time we expect to see franchise fees fall. LTC can use this plan for direction on how to fill the income gap and serve as a model for other access stations.
The key to sustainability is to change the perception of LTC from a cable TV station to a valuable resource for communication and training. This will involve retaining talented professional staff and developing outreach materials that convince Lowell residents, businesses, and organizations that LTC services are worth an investment in resources. At the same time we must deal with the fact that a sizeable proportion of Lowell residents need access but have very low incomes. Our success will depend on a combination of increased fees, grant funding, monetizing our programming through sponsorships, and fundraising events. Board commitment and involvement will be essential in creating a sustainable future.