05-28-2014 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL May 28, 2014 The foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Keis. Ayes (4). Nays (0). Resolution declared adopted. CABLE TV The City Administrator reported that at its June 11°i meeting, the Council FRANCHISE will be asked to consider the Cable TV Franchise renewal with Comeast. RENEWAL Cor Wilson, Executive Director of the North Suburban Cable Commission, as well as Comcast representatives will be present. The Administrator indicated that the Cable Commission, of which Little Canada is a member, is recommending against the franchise renewal as presented. The Administrator reported that if the majority of the member cities vote against the proposed franchise, the next step in the formal renewal process is that a hearing would be held on the renewal before an administrative law judge. The Administrator indicated that even as the formal process is proceeding, informal negotiations can continue between the Commission and Comcast. Keis asked if there are any laws in place that product the customer relative to what the cable company can charge. The Administrator indicated that it was his understanding that the Commission is willing to give up rate control as part of this renewal, and that issue is also controlled by the FCC. It was noted that Comeast is in the process of selling, with the sale likely to conclude after the franchise renewal is in place. Keis asked if the franchise addressed internet as well as telephone service. The Administrator indicated that the franchise deals with cable TV service, but he would assume that Comcast and/or the new owner would continue to provide both internet and phone service as well. McGraw reported that he watched the recent cable commission meeting at which the City of Shoreview indicated its intent to pull out of the commission and negotiate a cable franchise directly with Comcast. The Administrator reported that the Shoreview City Council has not officially taken that action, but the discussion will occur at an upcoming meeting. With regard to the franchise renewal, the Administrator noted that the renewal as proposed by Comcast is the first on in which the cities are getting less than what they currently have. Comcast is proposing a significant reduction in the PEG fee which supports public, education, and government cable access. The Administrator reported that the next agenda packet will contain a significant amount of information and will provide comparisons of the current franchise with the proposed franchise renewal. 8