08/10/1998 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES AUGUST 10, 1998 explained that the North Metro Telecommunications Commission has been negotiating the renewal of the cable television franchise, which is due to expire in September, 1998. The Commission is in the process of a comprehensive needs analysis which will identify the communities' needs, and assist in the renegotiation of the franchise agreement. Mr. Tesch stated that based on the experience of several neighboring communities, who are also in the middle of the renewal process, the City's legal counsel recommended that the current franchise be extended to March 18, 1999. This will insure adequate time to finalize negotiations. Mr. Tesch noted that all seven (7) cities in the franchise area will need to approve this ordinance. Mayor Sullivan asked for a roll call vote. Council Member Bergeson moved to adopt Ordinance 10 - 98, as presented. Council Member Dahl seconded the motion. Council Member Bergeson voted yes. Council Member Dahl voted yes. Council Member Lyden voted yes. Mayor Sullivan voted yes. Motion carried unanimously. Ordinance 10 - 98 can be found at the end of these minutes. Consideration of the 1999 North Metro Telecommunications Commission Budget - Mr. Tesch stated the North Metro Telecommunications Commission has prepared their 1999 operating budget. The proposed budget is set at $198,671.00. This is a $17,606.00 decrease over last year's budget. Franchise fees retained by cities is calculated to be $173,838.00 for 1999. Mr. Tesch noted that upcoming projects for 1999 include renewal of the cable franchise with MediaOne. Council Member Bergeson moved to approve the 1999 operating budget, as presented. Council Member Dahl seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Consideration of the 1999 Media Center Budget - Mr. Tesch explained that an amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement established an Operations Committee which is composed of Member City Administrators. Their primary responsibility is to provide input to the operation and budget of the Community Media Center. Mr. Tesch referred to the 1999 Media Center budget as proposed by the Operations Committee and recommended by the Commission for approval by it's member cities. Mr. Tesch stated the Media Center budget is proposed at $492,187 for 1999. This is composed of operating expenditures of $358,742 and capital expenditures of $133,445. The Operating Committee did not propose, and the Commission is not recommending an increase in the subscriber's monthly PEG fee, which will remain at $2.00 per month. 16