In an effort to insure that cable television franchising procedures at the local level are based on a competitive and well-conceived selection process, this report discusses some of the most important steps of the franchising process. Not only does it show how the community should assess its needs and appraise the merits of the cable operator, but it also presents a chronological sequence of procedures through which the community's needs can be translated into a workable and flexible franchising arrangement. The report is divided into two sections. The first deals with the proposal and hearing negotiations that each community should follow regardless of the technical requirements of the system. The second section specifically delineates the technical and administrative terms that must be written into the franchising agreement. It discusses fees and rates, access, employment practices, performance bonds, and some thirty other topics, all in light of the recent Federal Communications Commission's rulings. (MC)