City Council Meeting Date: July 23, 2019
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: Kurt Wolf, IT Manager
Title
Consideration of Resolution Granting Charter Cable Partners, LLC a Franchise Extension through January 31, 2020.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council consider approving the attached Resolution granting Charter Cable Partners, LLC a franchise extension through January 31, 2020.
Summary Report:
The existing franchise agreement with Charter expired on May 31, 2019. The proposed Resolution grants an extension of our franchise with Charter through January 31, 2020.
Staff has been working with Attorney Brian Grogan of Moss and Barnett in negotiations with Charter Cable Partners. Mr. Grogan is an experienced communications and technology law attorney. He has worked on behalf of many cities in Minnesota related to these cable franchise agreements and other areas.
The memo from Mr. Grogan dated June 17, 2019 describes some things that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) may adopt in a new order that could have an adverse impact on local government cable franchising. In light of the decision and upcoming ruling by the FCC, we are advising to further extend the contract in anticipation of those decisions that could impact how to approach a new franchise agreement. A proposed franchise agreement has been sent to Charter, and we expect that they will respond with their recommendations soon, but they may be waiting to see if the pending order is adopted by the FCC.
Alternative Options:
N/A
Financial Impacts:
There are no known financial impacts.
Tentative Timelines:
Franchise Expiration - May 31, 2019