Telecommunications Advisory Committee

City of Apple Valley

September 13, 1999

7:00 P.M. City Hall

Minutes

 

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Chairperson Bible. A quorum was not present.

Members Present: Rollin Bible, Dale Rodell, David Westbrook

Members Absent: Jerry Brown, Scott Hugstad-Vaa, John Magnusson

Others Present: Charles Grawe, Dennis LaComb, Tom Lawell

 

2. Rate Increases

Mr. Bible noted a resident attended the previous meeting complaining about the rate increases and asking for a rate study. Mr. Grawe said the study indicates the current basic rates are in-line with other Metro area cable rates and does not show a significant increase historically.

 

3. Joint Powers Agreement for Government Access

Mr. Grawe distributed a copy of the proposed job description for a Cable Coordinator for the joint powers entity. Mr. Bible suggested the position could supervise the part-time cable casting staff. Mr. Grawe said he would discuss this issue with the Human Resources Manager, but noted the pay scale may not work for supervisory authority. Mr. Bible said he was interested in serving on an interview committee for the position.

 

4. Other

    1. Mr. Bible said that as the franchise fees are $230,000 annually, he would like to see additional programming and less bulletin board. He said he would like to explore new programming ideas. Mr. LaComb distributed a list of current programming and a list of suggested programming series. Mr. Bible asked if any civic groups have an interest in programming. Mr. LaComb said Ring Around the Arts and the senior citizens have an interest. Mr. Bible requested staff to place the topic on the next meeting agenda. He also requested staff mail the lists of programming to Committee members who were not present at the meeting. Mr. Grawe informed the Committee of potential legislation that will eliminate the City’s franchise fees. He and Mr. Lawell will monitor the legislation and keep the Committee informed of its progress. Mr. Grawe said MACTA is soliciting additional funds to support a lobbying effort. Mr. Bible requested the MACTA request be on the next agenda.

b. Mr. Rodell reminded the Committee of the upcoming MACTA Conference on October 14 and October 15. Mr. Grawe said he would register two spots for the City.

c. Mr. Westbrook asked when digital cable would be available. Mr. Grawe said he believed it would be available soon, possibly in the month of September.

 

5. Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM.