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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1989 4 CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES December 7, 1989 4:00 p.m Mayor's Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Reed, Trost, Angel, Burt, Ament, Harris, Swaim. In the absence of Chairperson Fossell, Commissioner Angel chaired the meeting. It was reported that there were no expenditures during the month of November. The agenda was amended to include the following plans under New Business: Appointment of a Nominating Committee and 1990 Legislative Forms. The November monthly report was given including a beginner subscribership of 14,726 and an ending subscribership of 14,903 . A free Disney preview ran November 30th to December 3rd. The Company is also offering a free install or upgrade when a $25 contribution is given to Operation Santa Claus. It is hoped that a significant number of meals can be provided to the community with the food that is donated with this special promotion. Rick Christy, manager of WestMarc Cable, presented the cable company' s report. He reported that next year' s budget includes capital improvement funds totalling $40,000 including the equipping of a studio, color T.V. monitor, editor, sound system, etc. Mr. Angel reported that the United Way made a presentation to the employees of WestMarc Cable and has reported a significant contribution from the employees. Rick reported that in conversations with KOCR in Cedar Rapids, it has been found that they are outside the Grade B Contour. Rick stated that if in the future they increase their power, they would give consideration to adding them to their channel line up. Rick also reported that he and John McAnally had met with Stan Patterson concerning the extension of cable of his office on Lafayette Street. Discussion was heard as to the cost of the cable and who will pay for this service. Rick outlined the letter dated December 1st to Chairperson Fossell. Downtown areas not serviced with cable include the area east side of the river between Sycamore and Lafayette Street which runs east and west and between Park Avenue and Fifth Street which runs north and south. The areas on the west side of river not serviced by cable include the area between Park Avenue and Fifth Street which runs north and south and the area between Commercial and the river which runs east and west. It was determined by the Commission that neither the cable company or City is responsible for extension of cable to this area unless it can be proved that the area was residential in nature at the time of establishment of the franchise. L .o • CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES December 7, 1989 Page 2 Committee reports were given as follows. The public service and consumer relations report was given. It was reported that the Commission will be working in the area providing more public service information and weather information in the future. Bev Trost now present at 4: 42 p.m. Ray Harris now present at 4 : 43 p.m. Mr. Angel reported the possibility of cable casting council meetings through the Civil Defense office located in the basement of City Hall. With the presence of a quorum, it was moved by Burt, seconded by Reed that the minutes of November 9, 1989, be received and placed on file. Motion carried. Under old business, it was reported that the policy and procedures for local access was reviewed by members at the last meeting. Areas must be identified that will be priority for the Commission. Rick Christy reported that he and his corporate management had reviewed the guidelines and found them to be appropriate. The fiscal year 1991 budget guidelines were distributed. The budget committee consisting of Chuck Angel, Ray Harris, and Charles Reed will meet on December llth at 4: 00 p.m. in City Hall. A budget will be formulated and presented to the City Council for funding. It was reported that Chairperson Fossell, Trost, and Richardson had been reappointed to the Cable Commission by the City Council for another three-year term. The following individuals will serve on a nominating committee for selection of a chair- and vice-chair for the calendar year beginning 1990: Russell Burt, Tim Ament, and Ray Harris. The Black Hawk County League of Voters have not yet approached the Cable Commission but a request is anticipated for participation in the 1990 Legislative forums. Approximate cost of the Commission in the past has been $1, 000. It was moved by Burt, seconded by Trost that authorization be given to participate in the legislative forum sponsored by the League. Motion carried. With no further business before the Committee, it was moved by Reed, seconded by Trost that the meeting be adjourned. Motion carried. Larry P. Burger City Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES November 9, 1989 4: 00 p.m. Mayor 's Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Fossell, Angel, Reed, Evanson, Walden, and Burt. Also present: Stan Patterson, Bob McKinstry, Rick Christy and Michelle Temeyer. The minutes of October 5 were reviewed. It was moved by Burt, seconded by Reed that the minutes be received and placed on file. Motion carried. Under the financial report, it was reported that the check issued in June 1989 to the Local Programmers Association has yet to be cashed. A certified letter has been sent to the address. If no response is heard by the first of the year, payment on the warrant will be canceled. There were no bills for the month of October. Chairperson Fossell brought to the floor discussion concerning a recent communication from the manager of WestMarc Cable asking that any information requested by the Commission should be contained in writing when possible. This will allow Rick to answer our questions in a timely and accurate way. Chairperson Fossell reported that she has had continued conversations with Stan Patterson who is attempting to have cable extended to his office/residential building at 612 Lafayette Street. Mr. Patterson stated that the cost proposed by WestMarc for cable extension seems exorbitant. He asked that a detailed schedule of the cost incurred be provided. Rick agreed that this information would be made available to him. It was also suggested that the cable company investigate the possibility of using telephone lines at a reduced cost. Most likely, this is not possible given the telephone company' s policy on the rental of poles. Bob McKinstry from Park Towers was present to express his support of Mr. Patterson in his quest for cable extension. It was indicated that the City Engineer ' s Office has a set of maps indicating the location of cable facilities in the community. This will be reviewed by staff and forwarded to the Commission. At the end of the conversation, it was agreed that Rick would meet with Mr. Patterson and view the proposed cable location and the cost for installation of same. After discussion, Assistant City Attorney Molly Frazer was asked to render a written, legal opinion whether or not discrimination has taken place in that certain segments of the community have not yet been served by cable when the franchise specifically states that service will be provided to those residential areas in existence at the time of the franchise agreement. It was suggested that there may have been some intent to leave certain segments of the community unserved by cable. Chairperson Fossell indicated that she has had numerous conversations with Jerry Fitzgerald, Manager of KOCR in Cedar Rapids. Mr. Fitzgerald has been attempting to work with WestMarc to gain access to their cable system by displaying the FOX network. Mr. Fitzgerald indicated that he is the only one who currently carries the FOX network and that there could be a great market for this station. Rick indicated that in the past, the company had improper wattage to serve the area. Mr. Fitzgerald indicated to Chairperson Fossell that adequate wattage does exist. He also indicated that the station airs each weekday ti Cable Commission November 9, 1989 Page 2 except between .the hours of 2: 00 a.m. and 5: 00 a.m. Rick suggested that perhaps the signal strength of the station needs to be investigated as it was his understanding that proper strength does not exist. He also stated that the station must be within a "Grade B" area prior to allowing this station on the system. Rick also indicated that there are limitations on the location on the dial for this station. After discussion, it was the consensus of the group that the only place to locate the FOX network would be on Channel 18. It was suggested that this channel change may become effective in March 1990. It was the recommendation of the Cable Commission that every effort be made to place KOCR on Channel 18 with a target completion date of March 1990 provided that the station is able to meet the "Grade B" contour. No official action was taken on this recommendation. Rick announced that the company will be offering a special Christmas promotion beginning November 13 through December 22 for a free install with a $5 donation. Donations will provide a Christmas meal for a needy family in the metro area. Copies of the policies and procedures for public access were distributed to Commission members. The report was jointly prepared by Ray Harris and Janet Walden. There was no official action on the report; however, Janet asked that Commission members carefully review it and be ready to fully discuss it during the December meeting. The Clerk was asked to send copies of the policy to Commission members who were absent at today' s meeting. Members were reminded to begin work on budget preparation for the year beginning July 1, 1990. With no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned. Larry P. Burger City Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES October 5, 1989 4 : 00 p.m. Mayor's Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Judy Fossell, Daniel Evanson, Carl Swaim, Ray Harris, Janet Walden, Bev Trost, Russell Burt, Chuck Angel and Charles Reed. Also present: Rick Christy and Michelle Temeyer. The meeting was called to order by Chuck Angel. Moved by Walden, seconded by Burt that the September 7 minutes be approved with an amendment showing Dan Evanson as present be approved. Motion carried. No funds have been expended from the Cable Commission line item during the month of September. The warrant issued to the National Federation of Local Cable Programmers has not cleared the bank and was issued in June 1989. A certified letter will be sent to them requesting the status of their organization. Rick Christy presented the September monthly report. Rick reported that on October 17, from 2: 00 a.m. to 5: 00 a.m. , the cable system will be off the air to allow for the installation of new equipment in conjunction with their remodeling project. Rick also announced that a free preview will be aired on Channel 2 on October 14 and 15. Discussion was heard on how clubs and organizations can place information on local Channel 2. Local organizations were encouraged to provide information for airing. Chairperson Fossell now present at 4: 15 p.m. Discussion followed concerning a mutual working agreement with WestMarc Cable and the City for public access. The possibility of conducting workshops to provide basic expertise to users of local Channel 2 for developing programming was discussed. It was also mutually agreed that the City would allow WestMarc Cable to air promotions on local Channel 2. Discussion was again heard on the request of Stan Patterson, 612 Lafayette Street, for said property to be served with cable. Rick Christy reiterated that it was not economically feasible to wire this building at the original time that the cable was extended to the downtown area. If Mr. Patterson can prove that the structure was residential at the time cable was extended, it may be reconsidered. In all requests for cable, Rick indicated that the company looks at the economical feasibility of providing service. Discussion was heard on information presented by Susan Vaughn at the September 7 meeting concerning the return of her convertor box. No official action was taken by the Commission. Ray Harris presented the concern of Margaret Butz, 718 Russell Road. Ms. Butz ' s son-in-law presented facts concerning the case. Basically, Ms. Butz had her cable service disconnected after three months of service, and following the disconnection experienced sound problems in her set. She called a local repair service, after which time the picture improved somewhat but she still was not satisfied. After discussion, it was concluded that this situation probably had something to do with the antenna used by the other apartments in the 12-plex she resided in. This was presented merely for informational purposes. Angel now absent at 5: 27 p.m. Cable Commission October 5, 1989 Page 2 Due to time constraints, review of progress on the local access programming was delayed until the November meeting. UNI has indicated a willingness to assist on the public access channel. The new business item concerning the correspondence received from W. Parker Sykes was reviewed. Mr. Sykes advocated having a Fox Network affiliate station as a part of the basic lineup. Rick will respond to Mr. Sykes ' communication. The FY 1991 budget committee was appointed with Chuck Angels acting as chair and committee members to include Ray Harris, Charles Reed and Bev Trost. The next meeting of the Waterloo Cable Commission will be on November 9 at 4: 00 p.m. With no further business before the Committee, the meeting was adjourned. Larry P. Burger City Clerk/Auditor Cable Commission September 7 , 1989 4: 00 p.m. Mayor' s Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Judy Fossell, Bev Trost, Janet Walden, Ray Harris, Russell Burt, Charles Angel, Tim Ament, Carl Swaim. Also present: Bob McKinstry, Patrice Flamme, Sue Vaughn and Michelle Temeyer. Moved by Burt, seconded by Harris that the minutes of August 2, 1989, be received and placed on file. Motion carried. The financial report was given. No expenditures have been made from the current fiscal year budget. It was reported that the City is a member of the National Federation of Local Cable Programmers and paid dues on June 19, 1989 in the amount of $108. Susan Vaughn presented information concerning the return of her converter box to WestMarc Cable. Several months ago, she had a converter box stolen from her home and subsequently reported it to the Police Department and WestMarc Cable. WestMarc informed her that the replacement cost would be $250. Upon further checking, she was told that the price of a converter box is $65. She objected to the exorbitant fee she was going to be charged to replace the stolen box. She also indicated that WestMarc did not keep records of the model number of the original converter box that was assigned to her, so in no way could they identify if her converter box would ever be turned in, nor could the Police Department make accurate determination on her stolen converter box. Discussion pursued concerning the seemingly high cost. It was questioned whether or not these charges are reflected in the gross income of the company and eventually reflected in the City' s franchise fee. It was suggested by Commission members that Ms. Vaughn could write the Attorney General concerning the matter. Although the Commission was unable to pursue this matter, they thanked Ms. Vaughn for her information. Patrice Flamme, representing Stan Patterson, discussed the issue of cable to 612 Lafayette Street. This area and adjacent downtown properties are currently not served by cable. Questions were raised as to whether or not this structure was a residence at the time the franchise was initiated. It was suggested that WestMarc provide the City with a map of the downtown location served by cable. Bob McKinstry, representing Park Towers, indicated that their building is not served with cable; however, it was noted that the Russell Lamson Building does have cable service. No action was taken by the Commission, but the Commission thanked Ms. Flamme for her remarks. The Commission will take the matter under advisement. Doug Brown presented a 12 minute tape on antiques that he is currently attempting to market to various cable companies. He indicated his willingness to air it locally, but since it contains advertisement, the company indicated that they would not be able to air it on Channel 2. He asked for the Commission' s assistance in airing this locally. The Commission will take this matter under advisement. Chairperson Fossell presented a letter that will be forwarded to the City Attorney pertaining to the City' s franchise. The Commission will wait for the remarks of the City Attorney. Cable Commission September 7, 1989 Page 2 Chairperson Fossell presented a report of the Commission' s trip to Iowa City on August 23 . In meeting with Drew Schafer, Iowa City Director of Cablevision, he provided us with insight into their local access channels. A copy of the complete report is on file in the Clerk/Auditor's Office. Ray Harris stated that he had received a telephone call from Margaret Butz, 718 Russell Road, concerning ghost images on her TV. Ray was asked to bring additional details to the October meeting. The following Committee assignments were made: Regulation and Enforcement Committee--Bev Trost, Chuck Angel, Ray Harris and Dan Evanson (public access procedures) . Public Service and Consumer Relations--Carl Swaim, Tim Ament. With no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned. Larry P. Burger City Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION NOTES August 2, 1989 4: 00 p.m. Mayor's Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Fossell, Bev Trost, Janet Walden, Chuck Angel, Russell Burt. Also present: Bev Lind, Michelle Temeyer. Due to the lack of a quorum, no official business was conducted. Highlights of the meeting are as follows: Molly Frazer, Assistant City Attorney, is still researching the definition of "non-commercial" as it applies to our cable ordinance. This opinion was requested when questions arose whether advertising on Channel 2, the local public access channel, should be allowed. Tim Ament has been recommended to the Mayor and City Council for approval for appointment to the Commission. The appointment will appear on the Council agenda of August 7. We welcome him to the Commission. It was suggested that we visit the Iowa City Cable Commission to review their local access programming. The best dates for those Commissioners present were August 23 or 24. Michelle will let us know when arrangements have been finalized. Work is continuing on a local access programming. Ray Harris will be contacted on implementation. It was suggested that we contact East Peoria, Illinois for further information on public access. Chuck presented some information from Peoria that was distributed at the conference in Dubuque that may be helpful for our Commission. In response to the communication received from Mr. Stan Patterson requiring the extension of cable to the downtown area for residential uses, it was the opinion of the City Attorney that this is a matter to be resolved between Mr. Patterson and the cable company. After discussion, the Commission instructed the City Attorney to further review this situation since they felt that on of the Commission's duties was to arbitrate disputes between customers and the company. Judy reported that she had received a complaint from Susan Vaughn. Ms. Vaughn' s apartment was broken into and the box from the cable company was stolen. The cable company is charging her $150 to replace the unit. Ms. Vaughn contends that she should not be responsible for total payment of the unit. It was suggested that the agreement that Ms. Vaughn signed when she leased the box should be reviewed. This matter was referred to the City Attorney. The meeting was adjourned at 5: 00 p.m. Larry P. Burger City Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES July 13, 1989 4:00 p.m. Large Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Fossell, Angel, Reed, Harris, Evanson and Walden. Chairperson Fossell announced that Tim Ament, from Gallagher, Langlas & Gallagher, has expressed an interest in serving on the Cable Commission. He will be sent an application to be forwarded to the Mayor for possible appointment to the Commission. The minutes of June 8, 1989 were reviewed. Moved by Angel, seconded by Reed that the minutes be received and placed on file. Motion carried. Chairperson Fossell announced that committee members had met with the Cedar Falls Cable Commission concerning their participation in the public access channel. They indicated at this time that they would not have sufficient time to assist our commission in programming but would be willing to provide whatever assistance time provides. Discussion ensued concerning the public access channel and the definition of "non-commercial" in the City' s Cable Ordinance (Section 92-24) . Molly Frazer, Assistant City Attorney, stated that the public access channel is reserved for such things as educational and cultural items with the expressed purpose of allowing the public to communicate via said channel. Walden suggested that the City seek reimbursement from the Cable Company for the advertisement that has been shown on Channel 2. City staff were instructed to obtain information concerning public access from Miller & Holbrooke Information Services, the legal publication recently subscribed to by the Commission. Dan Evanson was introduced as the newest member of the Cable Commission. He is employed by the Waterloo school district and is responsible for cablecasting the School Board meetings and providing educational channels to all the schools. His expertise on the Commission will be greatly valued. Cablecasting of City Council meetings was discussed. The use of an intern was suggested. It is hoped that Council meetings can begin airing around August 1. The organizations that responded to the recent survey of the Commission number approximately 20. Commission members expressed a need to communicate with these groups as to our progress. Since it may be several months before the Commission is able to act, it was suggested that staff prepare a letter to each of the organizations indicating the availability of Channel 2 for public service announcements. It was also suggested that a request be put on LOGIN system, which is a national network requesting information on other cities' public access channel. The possibility of purchasing a camera and modulator was discussed. No definite arrangements were made. Bev Trost now present at 4: 50 p.m. The availability of films produced by Deere & Company was discussed. Using them on local Channel 2 was discussed as a possibility. Janet Walden indicated that the Regulation and Enforcement Committee was willing to assist in the public access issue as needed. owN Cable Commission July 13, 1989 Page 2 Commission members were also advised that budgeting for FY 1991 will begin in the fall. Preparation of a budget is essential to carry on the public access programming. Chairperson Fossell indicated that she had received a complaint from Harold Tuchel indicating his dissatisfaction with the duplication between the cable channels, the numerous sale shows and excessive rate schedule. It was agreed that this petition should be forwarded to the Cable Company for response. Chuck Angel suggested that the Cable Company perhaps investigate the possibility of providing an answering service for after hour calls. Due to the large number of complaints the Commissioners receive concerning this problem, staff was instructed to draft a letter to Rick Christy indicating our concern. Rick will also be asked to submit the June monthly report for Commission review. With no further business before the Commission, it was moved by Angel, seconded by Walden that the meeting adjourn. Motion carried. Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES May 3, 1989 4 : 00 p.m. Mayor' s Conference Room In the absence of Chairperson Fossell, Charles Angel chaired the meeting. On roll call, there were present Russell Burt, Janet Walden, Charles Reed, Charles Angel, Carl Swaim and Bev Trost. Others present: Rick Christy, Bob Moore, and Larry Burger. It was reported that the minutes of the April 7 Commission meeting were not prepared and would be approved at the next Cable Commission meeting. Burger reported that the unencumbered budget of the Cable Commission was $1,100. 61. Report of WestMarc Cable Company--Rick Christy, Director of WestMarc Cable Company, reported the beginning subscribers for April were 14,194, new installs 443, reconnects 202, disconnects 389, ending subscribers 14,450, for an increase of 256. Christy then submitted his written report for their review. Christy stated that he would like to report that WestMarc recently purchased and had delivered all new vehicles for the company which exceeded $250,000 expenditures. Christy continued that most vehicles were now on location at the company, and that the morale of the employees now driving new vehicles had greatly increased. Christy continued that the on-line computer system was now installed and that the employees would be trained at the end of this week. Christy stated that it would be capable of viewing a customer' s history as the customer is calling in instead of using the cumbersome microfiche system. Christy continued that they are also looking forward to a $60,000 building expansion. Chuck Angel reported that he and Rick Christy were on the Mayor' s Talk Show last Tuesday on KXEL. Angel stated that they had several calls and felt that it was very informative for both the Cable Commission and the Cable Company. Committee Reports: a. Regulation and Enforcement--No report. b. Inter-Agency--Russell Burt reported that he had attended a Cedar Falls Cable Commission meeting and the Cedar Falls Cable Commission is presently negotiating a new franchise agreement with WestMarc Cable Company. He stated that he would keep the Commission updated on further development. Discussion centered around the possibility of the Cable Commissioners receiving free cable service so that they can monitor the Cable Company on a regular basis in their home. It was reported by Larry Burger, City Clerk/Auditor, that this would probably not be appropriate. The City Attorney has looked into this issue in the past regarding such things as free golf passes to the Park Commission and free pool passes and other activity passes for the Recreation Commission. Burger reported that in the past, this has been closely related to a possible conflict of interest and felt that the City Attorney' s Office would not give a supportive opinion toward this request. c. Programming--No report. Cable Commission May 3, 1989 Page 2 Rick Christy, Director of WestMarc Cable Company, stated that his attorneys had issued an opinion regarding advertisement on the Local Access Channel. Christy stated that his attorney advised that he should negotiate a side agreement to the ordinance with the City of Waterloo regarding the availability of advertisement on Channel 2. It was suggested that the Commission negotiate an agreement with WestMarc Cable Company and then recommend that agreement to the City Council for approval. Commissioner Angel stated that he would like to pursue the possibility of some of the money sold for ads on Channel 2 coming back to the Commission to help defray some of the costs for the Local Access productions. Angel continued that many volunteer organizations he has talked to are very enthused about placing productions on the Local Access Channel. Commissioner Trost stated that she would suggest that several organizations get together to help control the cost of putting on a local program. Commission member Angel reported he has talked to John Deere, the City regarding bid availabilities on the Local Access Channel, the Recreation Center and other civic organizations. d. Public Service and Consumer Relations--No report. e. Ad Hoc Committee--No report. f. Commission Procedures--No report. Acting Chairperson Angel called for any citizens' oral comments and there were none. Moved by Reed, seconded by Swaim that the Cable Commission be adjourned. Motion carried. Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES April 6, 1989 4: 00 p.m. Large Conference Room Members present: Ray Harris, Ray Richardson, Chuck Angel, Charles Reed. Russell Burt present at 4: 10 p.m. Others present: Rick Christy, Roger Rezabek and Larry Burger. Rick Christy, Director of WestMarc Cable, presented the monthly report for the month of March. A summary of that report is: Beginning subscribers 14,132, new installs 214, reconnects 54, disconnects 206, ending subscribers 14,194, which is an increase of 62 subscribers. Christy continued that he would ask permission of the Cable Commission to run some promotional local advertising on the Channel 2 Access Channel. He continued that he would like to help offset his new producer' s, Chris Vokaty, salary in having Chris dedicated to the Channel 2 Access Channel. Molly Frazer, Assistant City Attorney, suggested that a negotiated settlement between the Cable Company and the Commission be approved for the running of advertising on Channel 2. The negotiated settlement would require Council approval. Commissioner Angel suggested that if the determination is that the company could not charge for advertisement on the local Access Channel, we could possibly work out an in-kind service to the Commission for local origination under the direction of Chris Vokaty. Commissioner Harris asked if there would be enough money in the budget to purchase some 3/4" tapes for use by the Commission for productions made and presented on the Local Access Channel. Harris continued that he would like to see the Commission furnish tapes for use by local organizations in the production of their presentations. Burger reported that there were still some 3/4" blank tapes in the Mayor' s Office that were purchased at the same time that the tape deck was purchased by the Commission. He continued that we could take a look at these tapes to make sure that they are still good and possibly the Commission could use these tapes. Moved by Burt, seconded by Richardson to approve the minutes of the March 9, 1989 Cable Commission meeting. Motion carried. Moved by Burt, seconded by Angel that the Agenda for the April 6, 1989 Cable Commission meeting be approved. Motion carried. The following reports were submitted by the various committees of the Commission. A. Regulation and Enforcement Committee--Chairperson Janet Walden - No report. B. Inter-Agency Committee--Chairperson Russell Burt reported that he had attended a Cedar Falls Cable Commission meeting and had offered any assistance to the Commission in rewriting their cable franchise. C. Programming--Chairperson Ray Harris suggested that a survey be taken of 1,400 people in the community on what they would like to see in programming. D. Public Service and Consumer Relations - No report. E. Ad Hoc Committee--Chairperson Ray Richardson - No report. F. Commission Procedures--Chairperson Charles Reed - No report. L. Cable Commission April 6, 1989 Page 2 Old Business The Midwest Regional Spring Conference National Federation of Local Cable Programmers on May 19, 20 and 21 in Dubuque, Iowa. It was reported that Bev Trost and Chuck Angel will be attending. Ray Richardson suggested that we may want to look at subscribing to a different magazine other than the Cable News. Richardson reported that the increase in the fee for the magazine was substantial and that we were possibly not getting the value out of this magazine. The Commission stated they will vote on whether to renew the Cable News subscription at renewal time. New Business Item No. 1. Rick Christy, Director of WestMarc Cable, stated that he would like direction from the Cable Commission in regard to the movement of a cable line to the Park Ranger' s house at George Wyth Park. Christy stated that the Park Ranger was hooked into the Cable Company, but at the time the highways were constructed, no one notified the Cable Company at the time IPS ran their lines under the new system. Thus, the Cable Company now would have to spent approximately $8, 000 to run one line to the Park Ranger' s house. Christy stated that they were presently working with the Iowa Department of Transportation for reimbursement but needed guidance from the Commission. Christy reported that he will continue to work on the problem but was concerned over the excessive cost that it may create. Citizens Oral Complaints--There were no citizens oral complaints. Vice Chairperson Harris reported that the negotiating session for the Cedar Falls Cable franchise will be held on April 24, 1989. With no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned. Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES March 9, 1989 4: 00 p.m. Mayor' s Conference Room Members present: Ray Richardson, Bev Trost, Charles Reed, Chuck Angel. A quorum was not present. Also present: Rick Christy, Chris Vokaty and Michelle Temeyer In the absence of the chairperson or vice chairperson, Commissioner Angel called the meeting to order. The minutes of February 2, 1989 were reviewed. No official action was taken due to the lack of a quorum. The financial report was given. The balance of the Commission' s funds for FY 1989 is $1,150.61. Prior to the end of the fiscal year, the Commission will be responsible for paying their share of the cost of producing the legislative forums with the Cedar Falls Cable Commission. Brochures were distributed from the Dubuque Cable Commission inviting members to the NFLCP Midwest Region Spring Conference to be held on May 19-21, 1989. The conference will be held at the Julien Motor Inn. Several Commissioners expressed interest in attending. Information concerning the time of the workshops and session format will be obtained. Anyone interested in attending should contact the Clerk/Auditor's Office as soon as possible. Rick Christy presented the February monthly report. Beginning subscribers for the month were 14,030, with ending subscribers of 14,132 for a net increase of 102 subscribers for the month. A copy of said report is available in the Clerk/Auditor' s Office. Due to a recent federal ruling, during 1990 it will be necessary that all cable companies reduce "leakage" to a bare minimum. As a result, the company is beginning efforts to accomplish this goal. These federal requirements were also discussed as it will affect the school cable system. A historical perspective of the subscribership to Cablevision will be prepared by the Clerk/Auditor' s Office using the monthly reports prepared by WestMarc Cable. This information will be distributed at the April meeting. It was reported that Ray Harris was unable to attend today' s meeting, but he asked that the Commission discuss local origination in light of the fiscal year budget request as approved by the City Council. It was reported that the budget for FY 1990 will be $2,000. Since this is less than the amount requested by the Commission ( $10,000) , he asked that the Commission discuss how it wishes to proceed on this project. Mr. Harris indicated in a written communication to the Commission that he was against dropping the idea of local origination. He also asked that the Commission review the letter that is scheduled to be sent to various service clubs in the area asking them to assist in programming on the local origination channel. Although no official action was taken, it was the consensus of the Commission to proceed with the local origination. Ray asked that Commissioners Trost, Angel, Richardson and himself meet soon to discuss proceeding with said survey. It was noted that Hawkeye Institute of Technology was recently hooked into the discreet system. It was also noted that the Cable Commission currently has three vacancies. Commissioners were asked to submit names of persons who may be interested in appointment to the Commission. All appointments require the approval of the Mayor and City Council. With no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned. Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES February 2, 1989 4 : 00 p.m. Mayor' s Conference Room Chairperson Judy Fossell called the meeting to order. Present on roll call were: Chairperson Fossell, Angel, Reed and Burt. The Chairperson stated that although they did not have a quorum at the meeting, they would like to get started with the discussion. The minutes of the meeting of January 12, 1989 were reviewed and with no comments, they were accepted. Rick Christy, Manager of WestMarc Cable Group, Inc. , gave the January report for the Waterloo Cable Company. Beginning subscribers--14,090, new installs--250, reconnects--73 , disconnects--383 , end subscribers--14,030, net subscribers at the end of the month were a minus 60, service calls for the month--435, customer related problems--146, system related problems--289, and system outages--7 . Christy continued that a crack in a three-quarter line was a problem on December 27, 1988. The Cable Company had a problem with suck-out hand crack in a 750 cable on December 28, 1988; on January 5, 1989, IPS had a power outage; on January 19, 1989 had a fuse blown; January 14, 1989 had a fuse blown; January 17, 1989 a crack in a three-quarter inch cable. Christy continued that the fuses that blew were just like any other fuses, you don' t replace a fuse until there is a problem. Special promotions: Upgrade special offers-subscribers may add pay service free, which is a $10 savings, or new subscribers may hook up with a pay service for half price installation or a $12.50 savings. Christy then ran through the employment records for the month. Total number of employees is 18, the break down is 11 males, 7 females and 1 minority. Christy continued that they are presently looking for a new position which they will be trying to fill with a minority. Walden now present at 4: 17 p.m. Walden suggested that Mr. Christy compare on his monthly report last month' s figures with this month' s figures by putting them side by side so that the Cable Commission can compare on a monthly basis. Rick Christy stated that of the disconnects, the non-payment of bills is probably the biggest reason. Christy then moved to the report on capital improvements for the Cable Company. He stated that in the current year budget, they will be replacing almost the entire fleet of vehicles for the Cable Company for approximately $92,000. Other capital improvements would include additional test equipment, and a sweep unit for approximately $11,000. Christy stated that in the 1989 budget, capital improvements will equal $201,929 and that compares to virtually no capital improvements under the McDonald Group. Chairperson Fossell asked Mr. Christy about the increase in rates for the Cable Company, which increases basic from $12. 95 to $13. 45 and expanded service from $5. 45 to $5. 95. Fossell continued that compared with other communities in Iowa, it looks as if the Waterloo Cable Company is more expensive. Rick Christy stated that you really can' t compare the various systems in the state due to the difference in service that they offer. Cable Commission Minutes February 2, 1989 Page 2 Chairperson Fossell stated that this is the third increase in the rates since she has been on the Commission. Rick Christy introduced Chris Vokaty, the new Programming Manager for public access. Vokaty stated that he has some very exciting ideas for local access on Channel 2 of Cable TV. He continued that he is looking at local origination high community image, and cross promoting services with other channels. Vokaty stated that on Thursday night, he had planned such things as Napoleon's Inside Track, Cedar Falls Sights and Sounds, Health Beat and Home Health Report, a Talk Fast, Fast, Fast Facts Hotline, possibly a newsletter with local origination in promotion of Cable TV, and a newsletter with viewer response. Vokaty continued that other ideas that he has had is a Metro Prep Beat with the five area high schools, such as a 45 minute program, possibly starting with the various football coaches from the high schools and covering all other aspects of school. Other ideas are a local kids ' program in the same tradition as the Dr. Max Show, a daily and weekly Waterloo magazine program using local talent, and the coverage of local events such as the Fourth Street Cruise, My Waterloo Days, Sturgis Falls Days, etc. Vokaty stated that he would also like to look into doing something with the audio on Channel 2 for the times when there is no programming. Burt questioned whether he had thought anything about doing something with Black History Week. Vokaty stated that he is in the process of contacting various groups in the community, and that is a very good suggestion. He stated that one of his problems is the time element, that he is only one person. He is presently looking for two interns from the University of Iowa for assistance. Walden questioned whether it was proper and legal for WestMarc to use the local access channel for their own promotion. Angel stated that he and Ray Harris were looking into various aspects of putting programming on the local access channel for local promotions. Angel stated that he has a concern also on the legality of using local access channels for promotion of area businesses. Walden again questioned the issue of who has control over the local access channel, the WestMarc Company or the public in which it is intended. Rick Christy stated that he feels this is a positive step and expressed concern over the negativism of control over the channel. Christy stated that there is 24 hours of programming on the local access channel, and it would be quite awhile before the channel is filled with programming. Walden now absent at 5:04 p.m. Angel stated that he is still enthused about building a good, solid program for the local access channel and had various ideas regarding promotions and the actual physical filming of it. Chairperson Fossell asked if we could have Molly Frazer, Assistant City Attorney, look into the legal aspects of control and the profitability from the control of the local access channel and also the profitability of charging for expenses for local access productions. r ' Cable Commission Minutes February 2, 1989 Page 3 Angel stated that he was checking into various aspects of securing a long-term loan on a camera from KWWL and felt that various civic organizations around the community would like to have locally produced programming to cover their various organizations, such as the Senior Volunteer Program, the Civic Organizations, Optimist and Boys and Girls Club. Christy stated that he would look into the legality of promoting his own company on the local access channel. Chairperson Fossel ran through some of the complaints that were presented to the Cable Commission and forwarded those to Mr. Christy. Angel gave a report on the Budget Committee. He stated that he and Ray Harris were working on a line item budget to receive 1Z percent of the franchise fees for the operation of the Cable Commission and local programming and promotion. Angel continued that the line item budget is nearly completed and would be forwarded to the Commission and the City Council in the near future. Christy stated that another exciting issue coming up is that the Company would be switching from a batch processing of bills to a on-line system in May. He stated this would give the employees in the office a better handle on past billings for the people who call and have questions. With no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 5: 30 p.m. Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor 1 CABLE COMMISSION MINUTES January 12, 1989 4: 00 p.m. Mayor's Conference Room Members present: Chairperson Fossell, Walden, Reed, Angel, Russell, Harris and Trost. Also present: Rick Christy, Bob Moore and Michelle Temeyer. Moved by Janet Walden, seconded by Charles Reed that the minutes of December 1, 1988 be received and placed on file. Motion carried. Preparation of the 1990 budget for the Cable Commission was discussed. Each committee was asked to present their budget request to Ray Harris, Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, to formulate the Commission' s budget. It was suggested that any subscriptions or the purchase of tapes be made prior to the year's end. The Midwest Region Spring Conference in Dubuque on May 19-21, 1989 was discussed. Conference costs and registration dates will be obtained from the City of Dubuque' s Cable Franchise Administrator. Those who are interested in attending should contact Judy. Rick Christy, Manager of WestMarc Cable Group, Inc. , gave the December monthly report. Beginning subscribers were 14,127 with ending subscribers of 14,090, for a net subscriber loss of 37. Rick also explained that the billing date and due date for monthly bills will be moved up several days. A considerable sum of money will be spent on replacement of vehicles for the company. The exact amount is not known at this time. Rick also reported that the February bills contain a letter indicating two channel changes, including the return of the American Movie Classic which will replace the Nostalgia Channel on Cable Channel 14. American Movie Classic is not a full-time channel, so when it is off the air, Movietime will be shown. TNT will be discontinuing its service as of April 15 , 1989 and will no longer be available, so as of March 1 , 1989 the Home Shopping Network will take its place on Cable Channel 31. He also stated that effective March 1 rates for basic service will increase from $12. 95 to $13 . 52 per month, and the expanded service will increase from $5. 45 to $5. 95. The monthly rates for premium service will remain the same. He also stated that the new office hours are from 9: 00 a.m. to 5: 00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. He also stated that they will be switching guides from the TV Host Guide to the TV Entertainment Guide, which will provide better service to subscribers. The letter received by the Commission from Craig Olson, 1143 Lantern Square, Apartment No. 1, was reviewed. His question was why can' t viewers in Waterloo receive stereo audio. It was suggested that Rick would respond to Mr. Olson's letter and that the Cable Commission staff inform Mr. Olson of Mr. Christy' s contact. Rick also stated that he would provide a list of stations that are available in stereo. Chairperson Fossell indicated that there are three openings on the Cable Commission, and that anyone wishing to submit a name for appointment should do so immediately. Chuck Angel stated that during a recent trip to Florida, a local access channel included such information as available jobs in the community, lost and found dogs, and animals available for purchase through the Humane Society. He stated that perhaps we could pattern our local access channel in accordance with this example. Rick reported that Chris Vokaty was hired as the Program Director. Cable Commission Minutes January 12, 1989 Page 2 With the new year, chairs were asked to continue on with their committee assignments and all agreed. Bev Trost agreed to be chair of the Public Service and Consumer Relations Committee vacated by Miriam Tyson, who has since retired from the Commission. Russell Burt stated that he would be willing to attend Cedar Falls Commission meetings and report back to our Commission. Chuck Angel also stated that no action has been taken on the request of Waterloo Greyhound Park to extend Cable services to them at the City' s expense. Mr. Angel suggested that perhaps Greyhound Park should look at alternative means of providing Cable services. With no further business before the Commission, it was moved by Angel, seconded by Reed that the meeting be adjourned. Motion carried. • Larry P. Burger Clerk/Auditor