Title
Approval of franchise agreement extension with Spirit Broadband
Body
SUMMARY:
The ten-year franchise agreement with Spirit Broadband and Charter Communications expired in September. Charter Communications elected to go under the statewide franchise that is now available to them and all paperwork has been filed and completed. Spirit Broadband, who purchased Cumberland County Cable, was not aware that the statewide franchise was available until a few months ago. They are in the process of filing their paperwork for approval. By letter, they have requested an extension of 6 months to complete the filing and receive approval.
By state law, the option to go under the statewide franchise rests with the cable company and not with the City. Regardless of which franchise they are under, the City will continue to receive franchise fees for services provided in the City limits.
BUDGET ACCOUNT:
Recommended Action
NECESSARY COUNCIL ACTION: Approve extension request.