Minutes 01/06/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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114 TUESDA¥~ JANUARY 6, 1998 additional channels would become available in about three years from the time they begin the rebuild work. Mr. Clower then stated that it was important for interested persons to read the proposed franchise and ordinance documents, wl~ch, he stated, dearly show that the proposed agreement is a non-exclusive franchise, that it does not close the door to new technology or other cable proriders, and that it requires Adelphia to make very signScant improvements which would result in better availability of service and greatly improved signal quality and programming. Mr. Jack R. Dotson,' State Director of the labor union of which some Adelphia employees are members, the Communications Workers of America, (CWA), spoke next, stating that Adelphia's management had not negotiated in good faith with the union. He also spoke against the proposed length of the franchise, and stated that a franchise of six years or more was very unusual. Mr. Dotson also pointed out that cable rates have consistently increased at a rate greater than inflation, and that Adelphia's compliance with Federal customer service standards and their financial profile should be carefully examined. Mr. Nosse then responded that Adelphia has been working with the union on a contract, and also cited several examples of franchises in which Adelphia operates that are for very long terms, up to 20 years in some eases. No other individuals came forward to speak, and Chairman Dalton asked when the County and City would need to act upon the franchises following closure of the public.heating. Mr. Clower stated that action would have to occur within 120 days. There being no further official business, both the City Council and the Board of Supervisors closed their respective Public Hearings on the Cable Television Franchise Renewal, and adjourned their joint meeting.