Coffee with the Mayor Highlights Role of Community Media in Marshfield

Marshfield, WI — A recent episode of Coffee with the Mayor featured special guest David Ballerstein, Community Media Coordinator for the City of Marshfield’s Communications Department. The conversation offered a detailed look at the purpose, challenges, and growing importance of community television in connecting local residents.

Ballerstein oversees Marshfield Broadcasting’s three channels: the Producers Channel, the Marshfield Now Channel, and the Government Channel. He described the work as both a civic responsibility and a community service, noting that the station provides live coverage of city meetings and broadcasts major events such as Dairy Fest and the Main Street Christmas Parade. He also trains volunteers in camera operation, lighting, and production, emphasizing that the channels belong to the public.

“Community television is for everybody,” Ballerstein said, noting that any resident can create their own show by reaching out. He highlighted the value of even small-scale engagement: if a message helps one person, it has made a difference.
The mayor praised the department’s increasing collaboration with local organizations.

One example discussed was the ongoing partnership with Marshfield Clinic to produce the health-focused series Your Health Matters. Ballerstein explained that the goal is to help viewers feel informed enough to take the next step in seeking medical support if needed.

The conversation also highlighted sponsorships as a key support model. Because the department is not funded by tax dollars, community television relies on cable franchise fees and partnerships. However, as more households transition to internet streaming, those funding sources have declined.

Ballerstein expressed concern that community media stations across Wisconsin have been forced to shut down due to limited resources. He stressed that Marshfield’s station continues to grow but will require stronger public involvement and sponsorship to remain sustainable.

One project the mayor praised was the weekly printed community broadcasting guide, distributed to assisted living centers, the Community Center, and local stores. Ballerstein explained that this allows residents without internet access to stay informed, though producing the booklet is time-intensive and costly.

Beyond his professional role, Ballerstein shared a personal milestone: he recently married, with a larger celebration planned next year. He also discussed hobbies such as ham radio and community service through local radio clubs.

As the episode drew to a close, Ballerstein encouraged residents to get involved in storytelling, recording, and documenting the life of the city. “It’s an archive of the culture here,” he noted, explaining that local productions preserve memories and community identity for years to come.

Both the mayor and Ballerstein emphasized that community media thrives when residents see themselves as partners and contributors.

Anyone interested in volunteering, producing a show, or learning more about Marshfield community media is encouraged to reach out to the Communications Department.

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