Commission Recommends Extending Comcast Cable TV Contract

 The North Suburban Communications Commission (NSCC) is recommending its 10-member cities, including Roseville, approve a one-year franchise contract extension with cable TV provider Comcast. 
In a news release, the commission said, "Because of the complexity of the franchise renewal process and negotiations, franchise extensions are common. "

The group added, "Although the cities’ cable franchises currently expire in October and November 2013, preparation of the Request for Renewal Proposal (RFRP) and associated documents has taken longer than anticipated. The renewal proposal will likely not be sent to Comcast until later in July or early August." 

Comcast agreed with the commission's plans for a 12-month extension of the franchises. 

The commission said the city councils of each of member cities have to adopt the franchise resolution. The commission said it is currently working with the city staff to get the agreement on their council agendas. 

Meanwhile, the commission hopes to conclude franchise renewal negotiations using the informal process well before the end of this extension.

If approved, the extended franchises would run to  Nov. 23, 2014.  
"We still hope to conclude franchise renewal negotiations using the informal process well before the end of this extension," commission director Coralie Wilson said a staff report.
Comcast's franchise renewal has come in the midst of controversy earlier this year over the cable company's charges for digital transport adapters.  

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