Falls Area Community Television (FACT) Subcontractor Guidelines

Location and Contact Information:

Address: 1 Hospital Court, Suite 7, Bellows Falls, VT 05101
Phone: (802) 463-1613
Email:
Website: www.fact8.com

Subcontractor Policy and Guidelines

Introduction:

Falls Area Community Television (FACT) is a non-profit Access Management Organization serving the Public, Educational, and Government (PEG) sectors in the Greater Bellows Falls Region and Cheshire County, NH. We strive to promote community involvement through the filming of public meetings, events, and educational content, enriching our programming for the communities we serve.
Subcontracting Opportunities:
FACT provides compensation to subcontractors for services such as producing, filming, and post-production of public, educational, and governmental programming. Additionally, FACT contracts professionals to lead community training sessions and workshops.
Subcontractors, including community members and volunteers, are engaged on a flat-fee basis as outlined in FACT’s freelance compensation guidelines.

Subcontractor Status:

1. Subcontractors must qualify as independent contractors in accordance with federal and Vermont state law. This includes the following:
– Subcontractors are responsible for their own tax obligations, including income and self-employment taxes.
– Subcontractors must provide FACT with a completed IRS Form W-9 prior to payment.
– The subcontractor relationship does not establish employment, partnership, or agency.

Work Scope:
Subcontractors may be engaged to provide services within the following categories:
1. Production Services:
– Filming of live events.
– Content creation for web and cable broadcast.
– Production of live TV and web broadcasts.
– Roles as above-the-line talent (e.g., directors, actors, hosts).
– TV and film production roles (e.g., camera operators, grips, lighting technicians).
2. Post-Production Services:
– Graphic design.
– Video editing.
– Sound design and mixing.
– Adding visual and sound effects.
3. Pre-Production Services:
– Writing for TV and film projects.
– Producing and coordinating pre-production activities.
– Above-the-line roles in TV and film production (e.g., directors, producers).

4. Training Services:
– Workshop or class instruction on topics related to media production, editing, or broadcasting.

Termination Policy:

Either party may terminate the subcontractor agreement at any time, with or without cause, by providing written notice. Upon termination, subcontractors must return all FACT property or equipment in their possession within seven (7) business days.

Ethics, Confidentiality, and Professional Conduct:

Subcontractors represent FACT in their professional capacity and are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, including:
1. Ethical Behavior:
– Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive or proprietary information obtained during the course of work.
– Consult with FACT’s Executive Director for guidance on ethical concerns.

2. Professional Conduct:
– Avoid harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate language in interactions with the public.
– Refrain from expressing personal opinions or commentary during filmed municipal or school board meetings.
– Do not accept gifts or favors that could influence professional judgment.

3. Representation of FACT:
– Subcontractors must not negotiate or enter into agreements on behalf of FACT without prior written authorization from the Executive Director.
– Misrepresentation of subcontractor status or unauthorized use of FACT’s name, logo, or resources is prohibited.

On-Site Requirements:
1. Subcontractors must remain impartial and professional while on-site, avoiding active participation in the events being filmed.
2. Subcontractors are responsible for ensuring safety, proper equipment use, and professional behavior during assignments.
Responsibilities and Equipment:

1. Subcontractors are responsible for the proper care, maintenance, and return of FACT equipment used during assignments. Any loss or damage due to negligence may result in liability.

2. Personal expenses incurred during service, such as travel or meals, are the subcontractor’s responsibility unless specifically pre-approved in writing.

Compensation and Payment:
1. Subcontractor payment terms are determined by FACT’s Board of Directors. Rates are provided in FACT’s freelance compensation guidelines.
2. Invoices for completed work must be submitted to the Executive Director within 30 calendar days of service completion. Payment will be processed within 15 business days of receiving a valid invoice.

Incomplete or Substandard Work:

If a subcontractor fails to deliver work as defined in the agreed-upon scope of work, or if the work does not meet the professional standards expected by FACT, compensation may be reduced or withheld entirely. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Deliverables that do not align with the specified requirements or quality outlined in the scope of work.
2. Violations of FACT’s subcontractor policies that impact the integrity or quality of the work.
3. Failure to complete the work within the agreed-upon time frame without prior written approval for extensions.

FACT reserves the right to review the work and determine the appropriate course of action, including reduced or no payment for the services rendered, based on the circumstances of the non-compliance.

Policy Changes:

FACT reserves the right to amend, modify, or eliminate policies at its sole discretion. Any deviations from these policies require approval from FACT’s Board of Directors.