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REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION DATE: 8/10/98 ITEM .: J- Department Approval: Manage- Reviewed: Agenda section: P�/Y Ordinances and Resolutions Item Description; Cable Television Franchise Ordinance. BACKGROUND The cable franchise renewal process has been coordinated by the North Suburban Cable Commission on behalf of its member cities. The renewal process has followed the "formal" procedures established by the Federal communications Commission. In accordance with that process, the cable Commission has conducted a Marketing and Engineering Analysis of the system, coupled with a Creeds Assessment to member communities. The North Suburban Cable commission has voted unanimously to recommend to its member cities approval of the proposed renewal. In addition, nine of the ten member cities have approved the franchise renewal with MedlaOne. The Roseville city council has followed a deliberate course to consider the franchise renewal. The process has been complicated by two ownership transfers which have caused significant delays. The city has also considered the cable television franchise renewal in the context of a new Right-of-gray Ordinance and a comparison to franchise renewals for the electric and gas utilities with Northern States Poorer. Given the interrelatedness of many of these renewals, plus the seriousness of a 15 year franchise renewal, the city Council commissioned special outside counsel to review each of these matters. Adrian Herbst, of the Fredrikson and Byron lair firm, was retained to provide a final review of the cable television franchise renewal proposal. Mr. Herbst's comments are enclosed in the attached memo, for council consideration. In general, he indicates support for council renewal of the franchise and has recommended a number of clarifications which are currently the subject of discussions with Mediaone. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS Careful review and due diligence of the franchise renewal have been performed by the Cable Commission, the city Council, staff, our City Attorney, and special counsel. The franchise renewal proposal with MediaOne is believed to be a very good proposal for the City and for cable subscribers. This review has included the technology opportunities for Roseville cable subscribers, the revenue potential for the community, and the service package through acka available th h M ed iaone. Based on favorable reviews at each level, City staff � recommends approval of the proposed Cable Television Franchise Ordinance Renewal. COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED Motion to approve the Cable Television Franchise ordinance with MediaOne,