09-20-2018 SWCSR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Sherburne Wright Cable Commission Meeting Minutes from 09-20-18 Page 2 of 3 Second, the FCC proposes to allow cable companies to count the value of services or facilities toward their franchise fee payment. This would encourage cable companies to designate a high value to significantly reduce or eliminate the franchise fees they pay. Again, the proposed rules are likely to be challenged by franchising authorities, but the changes are troubling. The potential reduction or elimination of franchise fees would significantly impact the finances of the Cable Commission, and could influence Charter's franchise renewal position to the detriment of negotiations. c. Franchise Renewal Update — \lose. reported the franchise renewal had been going well until recently. Charter's most recent redlines to the ordinance were dramatic changes and seem to build off the proposed FCC changes. Commissioner Allard requested Vose and Bruce continue to work with Charter on the agreement; next step will be a meeting between the parties. Bill Bruce updated the commission about the request for HI) channels and converter box fee resolution. Charter has agreed to provide HD channels as well as newer boxes,but it is only willing to provide one free converter box in each city to facilitate monitoring the channel. Vose noted the company was willing to compromise and provide free service in other locations but not the free boxes. Bruce noted an additional box is needed to provide music for the channel; Charter also unwilling to pay for those boxes. Commissioner Auger advised the commission that the periodic return of franchise fees helps offset costs like those of the converter boxes. 5. Equipment Report - Bill Bruce a. Report — Bill Bruce provided the September 2018 equipment report. Bruce discussed recent problems with the truck and the roof air conditioner in the trailer. Bruce updated the commission on ongoing installation of new wireless microphones in cities as well as the transition to new monitors. The SmartBoard Sympodiums have all been replaced and there are no longer subscription fees. Equipment requests made at the previous meeting have been installed. Commissioner Wolbeck asked about the purchase of ipads approved at the last meeting. Commissioner Auger noted the purchase can be made; cities should submit the request to Bill Bruce and Mert Auger. b. Equipment Purchase Requests — Bruce reviewed equipment purchase needs which included completing the updates to the Tricaster system in the final two commission cities: Rockford and Cokato. The cost per city is S14,071.99. Bruce also requested concept approval for new equipment racks for 3 camera system. Bruce noted that the total cost of purchases equals: $28,143.98. Commissioner Wolbeck motioned to approve equipment purchase requests as presented at an amount not to exceed $28,143.98. Seconded by Commissioner Carlson, unanimous ayes, motion carried. 6. Programming Report — Bill Bruce a. Report — Bill Bruce presented the September 2018 programming report in conjunction with the equipment report. Bruce discussed the busy summer schedule with major events like parades, coronations, and movie in the park. Bruce noted the strong support from cities and volunteers given the departure of video producer during peak season.