This volume is a comprehensive reference guide to cable television technology and issues of planning, franchising, and regulating a cable system. It is intended for local government officials and citizens concerned with the development of cable television systems in their communities, as well as for college and university classes in communications. The opening chapter provides a basic understanding of cable technology. It explains how a cable system works and what new capacity is needed for additional communications. Chapter 2 presents step-by-step guidance in the drafting and awarding of a local franchise, as well as checklists of franchise provisions and the major elements in the franchising process. The following chapter describes technical considerations in franchising a cable television system. Chapters 4 and 5 concentrate on citizen participation: first, participation in the planning and franchising phases, and then participation by citizens after a franchise is granted. (Author/WCM)