2005-02-23 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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not to do a substantive review of the form 1240. However, related to the examination of the FCC form 1240, which is used to support Comcast's proposed maximum permitted rate for basic 1 cable service, the Commission chose to examine the methodology utilized by Comcast for charging subscribers for franchise fees paid on non-subscriber related income, such as advertising and shopping chanrtel sales. In conjunction with several other area Commissions a consultant was hired to examine the methodology. After a great deal of deliberation and examination the consultant recommended requiring Com cast to include non-subscriber franchise fees as a part of their annual form 1240 filing. The primary justification was that the FCC form 1240 already contained a process for trueing up costs and receipts, and that it would make reviewing these costs easier for the Commission going forward. If the Commission chooses to adopt rate orders that include the recommended change for determining non- subscriber revenues, Comcast is expected to mount a challenge. The second part of the Commission's rate review responsibility included an examination of the FCC form 1205 that was filed by Comcas!. This form is utilized to justify proposed costs for equipment and installation charges related to the basic service tier. Because Comcast determines these costs based on national averages and not on the actual local costs, determining whether the charges were justified was very difficult. As such, the Commission joined a national examination of Comcast's costs. Comcast felt that some of the Information requested by the consultant was not necessary for determining the costs, so they petitioned the FCC for relief. At this time, the consultants have completed their examination of the figures and submitted a report and recommendation. According to the consultants there is justification for a refund to subscribers. The next step is for the Commission to decide whether to adopt rate orders reflecting this recommendation. The New Facility This is the year that it all came together. Three years of planning, changing rules, borrowing money, locating and buying land, hiring an architect and a contractor, and designing the facility were over. The time had arrived for getting dirty and seeing the project to its end. Let the fun begin! . Choosing the materials You would think this would be fun, but it's actually quite rife with pressure. Thankfully we had a good team effort when it came to choosing building and finishing materials. As anyone can attest who has been through this, the first items you must choose, such as exterior finishes and roofing materials, get a lot of consideration. You're pretty sure each decision is life or death. By the time you get to the light switch plates and window coverings you realize there is going to be a tomorrow. 17