City Council Meeting Date: November 20, 2018
To: Mayor Pownell and City Council
Ben Martig, City Administrator
From: Kurt Wolf, IT Manager
Title
Consideration of Resolution Granting Charter Cable Partners, LLC a Franchise Extension through May 31, 2019.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council consider approving the attached Resolution granting Charter Cable Partners, LLC a franchise extension through May 31, 2019.
Summary Report:
The existing franchise agreement with Charter expires on December 31, 2018. The proposed resolution grants an extension of our franchise with Charter through May 31, 2019.
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.
There are some pending In light of the upcoming ruling by the Federal Communications Commission on franchise fees, we are advising to extend the contract in anticipation of those decisions that could impact how to approach a new franchise agreement. Staff will be giving some additional information on these pending rulings as we discuss the 2019 budget on the agenda Tuesday night.
Alternative Options:
N/A
Financial Impacts:
There are no known financial impacts.
Tentative Timelines:
Franchise Expiration - December 31, 2018