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MINUTES <br />CITY COUNCIL <br />JANUARY 28, 2026 <br />an ordinance is amazing, they need the protection of the Police to uphold it. She stated that education <br />is a right regardless of status. <br />Lesley Campbell, resident, stated that she and her husband are trying to help the community and have <br />witnessed ICE activity. She asked how they can reach out to neighbors to assist with protection around <br />the school and parks, and/or delivery of food to residents. <br />Leah, resident, commented that ICE has a list of people who are at bus stops and shared experiences <br />that have occurred at bus stops. She also provided input on residents who came here in December <br />under refugee status and the false pretenses that were used to get the residents out of their homes to be <br />detained and taken to Texas. She supported the city making a statement or taking other action. <br />Mayor Fischer thanked the residents for sharing their comments, experiences, and observations. He <br />stated that the Council has been experiencing and observing these things as well, and these stories will <br />stay with them as they continue to discuss what can be done. He hoped that ICE would leave the <br />community quickly and quietly, noting that it seems things may have calmed down a bit over the last <br />few days and are going in the right direction. <br />PRESENTATIONS <br />BROADBAND FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS <br />Michael Bradley, Attorney representing the North Suburban Communications Commission, introduced <br />himself and provided background information on franchise organizations and how broadband <br />companies are categorized. He provided information on a recent broadband franchise in Woodbury <br />and the benefits that are provided to that community. <br />Miller noted the intention through these agreements to provide equal access to everyone in the <br />community. He stated that franchise fees are also important, as the cable franchise fees remain in a <br />steady decline, noting that those fees assist in supporting the needed services that NineNorth provides <br />to communities. <br />Bradley commented that the future of municipal franchising is in broadband and noted that additional <br />information was provided for the Council in the packet. He provided additional information on how <br />NineNorth operates and works for the cities within its Joint Powers Agreement (JPA). <br />Kwapick asked if broadband would apply to multiple platforms and infrastructure throughout the city, <br />such as DSL and cable or new fiber lines. Bradley replied that broadband companies are broadband - <br />only companies and provided examples and clarification. It was confirmed that the broadband <br />agreement would require the company to provide access to the entire community rather than picking <br />and choosing service areas. He noted that a franchise fee would also provide payment for the use of <br />the right-of-way, in addition, and confirmed that the permits would still be required as well. <br />Mayor Fischer asked if there are next steps from the Commission. Miller commented that support <br />from the city, perhaps through a future resolution, would be the next step. Bradley confirmed that <br />generally the Council provides direction to staff, and NineNorth would then work with the city on that <br />element. <br />3 <br />