City Council Minutes 2002 07 16 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Louisville City Council Meeting July 16, 2002 Page 8 Assistant to the City Manager Heather Balser reviewed that AT&T Corp intends to merge with Comcast Corporation. Pursuant to the franchise held by Comcast Cablevision of Colorado, an indirect subsidiary ofAT&T Corp, AT&T Corp and Comcast have requested City approval of the merger. The ordinance approves the transfer of control of the City's cable television franchise to AT&T Comcast Corporation. The ordinance contains conditions to provide the City with assurances that the merger will not negatively impact service or the City's interest in the franchise. Balser explained that, federal law allows the City to consider whether Comcast has the technical, legal and financial ability to assume control and comply with the obligations of the franchise. An FCC 394 filing asserts that a company with Comcast's experience should be well equipped to assume and comply with the franchise obligations. As an assurance that the merger will not negatively affect service at the local level, the proposed ordinance approving the transfer includes a condition requiring a commitment to technical, and customer service staffing at levels sufficient to comply with all 'franchise and regulatory obligations. Balser stated that Margaret Lejuste, Director of Government and Community Affairs for AT&T, would make a presentation and be available to answer Council questions. Davidson asked Lejuste if the City would be getting high-speed Internet service. Margaret Lejuste, AT&T Director of Government and Community Affairs, informed Council that there are plans for high-speed Intemet service in Louisville. She explained there is a new leadership that is upgrading and providing additional services to various cities, based on market demand. She stressed that Louisville has a high market demand. Davidson opened the public hearing and asked if anyone in the audience wished to speak for or against Ordinance No. 1390, Series 2002. COUNCIL COMMENTS Keany asked if any of the requirements have changed within the franchise agreement. Lejuste stated that only the parent control that holds the franchise changes. Sisk noted that AT&T Comcast Corporation serves other communities, where services are more extended. He asked for a timetable for upgrades to the Louisville cable service. Lejuste stated that when a timetable is prepared, it would be shared with Louisville. She noted that the current franchise agreement expires in 2005. Pursuant to federal law, AT&T Comcast will notify the City and be willing to enter into early negotiations. Davidson asked for public comment. Hearing none, Davidson closed the public hearing.