Why doesn't the MTA do something about objectionable programming? A local franchising agency, such as the MTA may not require specific types of programming channels (such as CNN or ESPN) or otherwise regulate the contenct of programming unless such programming is obscene. The local agency may require that certain broad categories of programming are provided by the cable operator, such as children, sports, documentary, or foreign language programming. Why don't we have more than one cable television provider in Marin? The Federal Telecommunicatioins Act of 1996 authorizes local agencies, such the MTA, to enter nonexclusive franchise agreements with cable operators. The current franchise agreement is a nonexclusive agreement. That is, any cable operator may come into Marin to compete with the incumbent operator, Comcast. Under the recently passed California legislation (ab2987) the state has assumed the authority for granting local franchises. AT&T has announced that it plans to begin offering its cable service U-Verse in Marin beginning in late 2007. What is the MTA? The MTA was formed in 1998 to provide participating agencies increased coordination with respect to franchising and regulating telecommunications services, and to set policies that provide more effective and efficient telecommunications benefits to the community. Who are the participating agencies? The MTA is a joint powers authority that includes eleven agencies: the County of Marin, and the cities/towns of Belvedere, Corte Madera, Fairfax, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Ross, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito and Tiburon. Governments of Marin What is local origination programming? Local orgination (L/O) and regional programming produced by the cable operator. Comcast L/O can be found on cable channel 78. Programs such as the "North Bay Report", "A Time for all Seasons', and Marin League of Women Voter's candidates forums are examples of L/O programming.