Northampton Borough Council was informed at its recent meeting that the decision not to carry WNEP-TV 16 in its line-up by Service Electric Cable TV & Communications was not their doing, but that of ABC-TV network.

Tim Himmelwright, a Service Electric communications and public affairs official, said the Allentown-based cable company is doing all it can so that Channel 16 could be restored for its viewers. RCN Cable TV has also dropped Channel 16 from its line-up because of the ABC-TV edict.

Himmelwright said he understands the anger and frustration viewers in the area are feeling due to the loss of Channel 16. Often the Wilkes-Barre's TV station newscasts generated local interest.

Richard Ackerman, a borough resident, asked a series of questions about what is being done to restore Channel 16.

Himmelwright said Service Electric is taking its case to the FCC in Washington, D.C., and will be in the nation's capital soon to meet with officials regarding the issue.

Council members commented it appears the issue comes down to money.

Continued communications with a congressional committee dealing with cable rights and television is ongoing.

Council stopped short of writing to their Congressmen expressing support of Service Electric, although it voiced strong displeasure of the ABC network decision.

"Where does the FCC fall under the Freedom of Information Act ?" Councilman Ed Pany asked. Pany said his wife was a regular viewer of Channel 16, as were many in the region.

In a related matter, council approved a resolution extending its cable franchise agreement with Service Electric for 10 years. The borough receives a 5-percent franchise fee from the cable company.