05-08-2013 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MAY 8, 2013 CONSENT AGENDA of this year for digital transport adaptors (DTA). She noted that the rate filing that Comcast made in March of 2012 relative to this service indicates maximums under the $1.99 amount. She also noted that this rate is a mix of equipment and service components. Wilson indicated that at the March 2013 meeting NSCC adopted a rate order, and Comcast requested the ability to settle the issue before the matter went to the FCC. If a settlement is not agreed by May 14th, the matter will be filed with the FCC. Wilson reported that there are three other commissions involved in this process, and costs will be shared. Wilson indicated that another issue related to this is having the DTA equipment available for purchase as an option to merely renting it. Wilson provided again noted the difficulties that NSCC is having in getting Comcast to negotiate the franchise renewal, and indicated that other commissions are having the same difficulties. If no agreement is reached prior to expiration of the current franchise, Wilson indicated that the current franchise would be extended. McGraw asked if Comcast could increase rates under an extended franchise. Wilson reported that they could again noting that the FCC has said that commissions can only regulate the lowest level of service. Wilson indicated that even once the formal renewal process begins, NSCC is still able to pursue the informal process. Wilson stated that the hope is that Comcast will be willing to come back to the table and negotiate in a realistic manner. Wilson reported that NSCC currently has a good franchise agreement and that it is Comcast's desire to put in place a standard franchise throughout the country. She noted, however, that individual franchises are based on the unique needs and interests of a particular area. The Administrator asked if the 1998 franchise agreement was negotiated with Comcast. Wilson stated that it was not, but could not remember the specific entity at the time. Wilson pointed out that the company was sold several times, but the advantage has been that the same general manager was in place. Since that time Comcast has bought a lot of cable companies and they are now the largest in the country by far. The Council thanked Wilson for her report. Blesener introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 2013 -5 -78 — REMOVING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES: 5