In order to give local officials the basic background information about cable television, this booklet suggests the essential steps and issues which help ensure that well informed decisions about cable systems are made. Not only does it provide a checklist for determining how a cable system should be established in compliance with federal regulations, but it also serves as a guide to areas where assistance may be needed. It sets forth a general view of the process by which issues may be considered, local legislation written, an operator selected, and the system constructed. The suggested procedure is arranged around the five phases of cable development: 1) organization; 2) study; 3) legislation; 4) applicant selection; and 5) supervision-enforcement. The booklet emphasizes the need for flexiblity when formulating the overall development plan. (MC)