HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 02-100-CCGRANT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Grant County, Washington
ORDINANCE NO. 02 -loo- CC
RESOLUTION NO. 02 -100 -CC
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A FRANCHISE TO REPLACE
AN EXISTING FRANCHISE FOR NORTHLAND CABLE
TELEVISION, INC., TO CONTINUE TO OPERATE AND
MAINTAIN A CABLE SYSTEM IN THE COUNTY OF GRANT
AND, SETTING FORTH CONDITIONS ACCOMPANYING
THE GRANT OF FRANCHISE.
The Board of County Commissioners of Grant County, Washington, acting for and on
behalf of Grant County, Washington, ordain as follows:
Findings.
Northland Cable Television, Inc., DBA Northland Cable Television ("NORTHLAND" or
"GRANTEE") desires to operate a Cable System in the rights-of-way of the County of Grant
("COUNTY" or "GRANTOR"). Negotiations between NORTHLAND and Board of County
Commissioners of Grant County, Washington, acting for and on behalf of COUNTY, have been
completed and the FRANCHISE process followed in accordance with the guidelines established
by applicable law. As a condition of receiving this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE has agreed to
abide by COUNTY's current and future lawful policies, ordinances and regulations regarding
infrastructure usage, street -cuts and rights-of-way.
Adoption.
This ordinance shall be known as the Northland Cable Television, Inc. 2002 Franchise
("FRANCHISE") and shall provide as follows.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS
SECTION 2. GRANT OF FRANCHISE
2.1
Grant
2.2
Use of Public Streets and Ways
2.3
Term
2.4
Effective Date
2.5
FRANCHISE Nonexclusive
2.6
Grant of Other Franchises
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2.7 Police Powers
2.8 Relations to Other Provisions of Law
2.9 Effect of Acceptance
SECTION 3. FRANCHISE FEE AND FINANCIAL CONTROLS
3.1 FRANCHISE Fee
3.2 Payments
3.3 Acceptance of Payment and Recomputation
3.4 Monthly FRANCHISE Fee Reports
3.5 Annual FRANCHISE Fee Reports
3.6 Audits
3.7 Interest on Late Payments
3.8 Alternative Remedies
3.9 Additional Commitments Not FRANCHISE Fees
3.10 Costs of Publication
3.11 Tax Liability
3.12 Payment on Termination
SECTION 4. ADMINISTRATION AND REGULATION
4.1
Authority
4.2
Rates and Charges
4.3
Rate Discrimination
4.4
Filing of Rates and Charges
4.5
Time Limits Strictly Construed
4.6
Performance Evaluation Sessions
SECTION 5. FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Insurance Requirements
52 Indemnification
5.3 Workman's Compensation Waiver
5.4 Performance Bond
SECTION 6. CUSTOMER SERVICE
6.1
Customer Service Standards
6.2
Subscriber Privacy
6.3
Local Office
6.4
Emergency Broadcast
SECTION 7. REPORTS AND RECORDS
7.1 Open Records
7.2 Confidentiality
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7.3 Copies of Federal and State Documents
7.4 Complaint File and Reports
7.5 Inspection of Facilities
7.6 False Statements
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8.1
Broad Programming Categories
8.2
Parental Control Device
8.3
Leased Access Channels
8.4
Continuity of Service
8.5
Community Programming Needs
8.6
Service for Disabled
SECTION 9. GENERAL STREET USE AND CONSTRUCTION
9.1 Construction
9.2 Location of Facilities
9.3 Relocation
9.4 Restoration of Streets
9.5 Maintenance and Workmanship
9.6 Reservation of Grantor Street Rights
9,7 Use of Conduits by Grantor
9,8 Street Vacation
9.9 Discontinuing Use of Facilities
9.10 Hazardous Substances
9.11 Undergrounding of Cable 9.12 Codes
9.13 Standards
SECTION 10. MEANS OF FRANCHISE TERM EXTENSION
SECTION 11. TEST AND COMPLIANCE PROCEDURE
SECTION 12. SERVICE EXTENSION, CONSTRUCTION AND INTERCONNECTION
12.1
Equivalent Service
12.2
Service Availability
12.3
Connection of Public Facilities
SECTION 13. STANDBY POWER
SECTION 14. FRANCHISE VIOLATIONS; REVOCATION OF FRANCHISE
14.1 Procedure for Remedying FRANCHISE: Violations
14.2 Revocation
14.3 Removal
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14.4
Receivership and Foreclosure
14.5
No Recourse Against Grantor
14.6
Nonenforcement by Grantor
14.8
Relationship of Remedies
SECTION 15. ABANDONMENT
15.1 Effect of Abandonment
15.2 What Constitutes Abandonment
SECTION 16. FRANCHISE RENEWAL AND TRANSFER
16.1 Renewal
16.2 Transfer of Ownership or Control
SECTION 17. SEVERABILITY
SECTION 18. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
18.1 Preferential or Discriminatory Practices Prohibited
18.2 Notices
18.3 Binding Effect
18.4 Authority to Amend
18.5 Governing Law
18.6 Guarantee
18.7 Captions
18.8 Construction of FRANCHISE
18.9 Entire FRANCHISE
18.10 Time is of the Essence
SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this FRANCHISE and all exhibits attached hereto, the following terms,
phrases, words and their derivations shall have the meaning given herein. When not inconsistent
with the context, words used in the present tense include the future, words in the plural include
the singular, and words in the singular include the plural.
Words not defined shall be given their common and ordinary meaning. The word "shall' is
always mandatory and not merely directory.
1.1 "Affiliate" when used in connection with GRANTEE means any corporation, person or
entity that owns or controls, is owned or controlled by, or is under common ownership or
control with, GRANTEE.
1.2 "Basic Service" means any service tier, which includes the retransmission of local
television broadcast signals, or as such service tier may be further defined by federal law.
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1.3 "Cable Act' means the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984 and the Cable
Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992 and any amendments
thereto, including those contained in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and any future
federal cable television legislation.
1.4 "Cable Operator" means any Person or groups of Persons, including GRANTEE, who
provide Cable Service over a Cable System and directly or through one or more Affiliates
own a significant interest in such Cable System or who otherwise control or are
responsible for, through any arrangement, the management and operation of such a Cable
System.
1.5 "Cable Service" means the one-way transmission of video programming or other
programming service to Subscribers, and Subscriber interaction, if any, which is required
for the selection or use of such video programming or other programming service, and as
otherwise defined or permitted by the FCC from time to time.
1.6 "Cable System" means a facility, consisting of a set of closed transmission paths and
associated signal generation, reception, and control equipment that is designed to provide
Cable Service which is provided to multiple Subscribers within a community, but such
term does not include (1) a facility that serves only to retransmit the television signals of
one or more television broadcast stations; (2) a facility that serves Subscribers without
using any public right-of-way; (3) a facility of a common carrier which is subject, in
whole or in part, to the provisions of Title II of the Cable Act (47 V.S.C. 201 et seq.),
except that such facility shall be considered a Cable System to the extent such facility is
used in the transmission of Cable Service directly to Subscribers; (4) an open video
system that complies with federal statutes, or (5) any facilities of any electric utility used
solely for operating its electric utility systems.
1.7 "Channel' means a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum which is used in a Cable
System and is capable of delivering a television channel, as television channel is defined
by the FCC in other applicable regulations.
1.8 "Downstream" means the transmission from the Headend to remote points on the Cable
System or to Interconnection points on the Cable System.
1.9 "FCC" means the Federal Communications Commission or any successor agency thereto.
1.10 "FRANCHISE" means the non-exclusive and revocable authorization or renewal thereof
for the construction, operation, upgrade, rebuild or maintenance of a Cable System within
the Franchise Area such as is granted by this Ordinance, whether such authorization is
designated as a franchise, license, resolution, contract, certificate, agreement or
otherwise. This FRANCHISE is an agreement between the County of Grant and
NORTHLAND.
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1.11 "Franchise Area" means the area within the jurisdictional boundaries of COUNTY of
Grant, Washington, including any areas annexed by GRANTOR during the term of this
FRANCHISE.
1.12 "Gross Revenues" means all amounts accrued by GRANTEE in whatever form and from
all sources, from the operation of GRANTEE's Cable System to provide Cable Service
within the Franchise Area. "Gross Revenues" shall include, without limitation, all
amounts for all Cable Services, including, but not limited to, Basic, expanded basic,
premium, and pay-per-view services, and installation fees and charges. "Gross Revenues"
shall also include any revenue received by any Affiliate of GRANTEE where such
revenue in the ordinary course of business has been paid to GRANTEE from the
operation of its Cable System to provide Cable Service within the Franchise Area. "Gross
Revenues" shall not include Subscriber leased or purchased equipment related to Cable
Service reception, advertising sales, customer bad debt, sales taxes, or other taxes, which
are collected by GRANTEE on behalf of and for payment to, the local, state or federal
government.
1.13 "Headend" means a facility for signal reception and dissemination on a Cable System,
including cables, antennas, wires, satellite dishes, monitors, switches, modulators,
processors and all other related equipment and facilities.
1.14 "Interconnect" means the provision by GRANTEE of technical, engineering, physical,
and all other necessary components to maintain a physical linking of GRANTEE's Cable
System and Cable Service or any designated Channel or signal pathway thereof with
neighboring Cable Systems, so that Cable Service of technically adequate quality may be
sent to, and received from, other systems in accordance with this FRANCHISE.
1.15 "Person" means any individual, natural person, sole proprietorship, partnership,
association, or corporation, or any other form of entity or organization.
1.16 "School" means any accredited educational institution, public or private, including, but
not limited to, primary and secondary Schools, and colleges and universities.
1.17 "Street" means each of the following which have been dedicated to the public or are
hereafter dedicated to the public and maintained under public authority or by others and
located within the Franchise Area: Streets, roadways, highways, avenues, lanes, alleys,
sidewalks, easements (dedicated for compatible uses), rights-of-way and similar public
property and areas.
1.18 "Subscriber" means any Person who elects to subscribe to, for any purpose, Cable
Service provided by GRANTEE by means of, or in connection with, the Cable System,
and whose premises are physically wired and lawfully activated to receive Cable Service
from GRANTEE's Cable System serving the Franchise Area. (A)"Commercial
Subscriber" which means any Subscriber other than Residential Subscriber. (B)
"Residential Subscriber" which means any Person who receives Cable Service delivered
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to single or multiple dwelling units, excluding such multiple dwelling units billed on a
bulk -billing basis.
1.19 "Upstream" means the carrying of a transmission to the Headend from remote points on
the Cable System or from Interconnection points on the Cable System.
1.20 "GRANTEE" means Northland Cable Television, Inc., DBA Northland Cable Television,
or its lawful successors and assigns.
SECTION 2. GRANT OF FRANCHISE
2.1 Grant.
A. GRANTOR hereby grants to GRANTEE a nonexclusive and revocable
authorization to make reasonable and lawful use of the Streets within the
Franchise Area to construct, operate, maintain, reconstruct, replace, upgrade and
repair a Cable System for the purpose of providing Cable Services subject to the
terms and conditions set forth in this FRANCHISE.
B. This FRANCHISE is intended to convey limited rights and interests only as to
those Streets in which GRANTOR may lawfully convey such rights and interests.
It is not a warranty of title or interest in any : right-of-way; it does not provide
GRANTEE any interest in any particular location within the right -of- way; and it
does not confer rights other than as expressly provided in the grant hereof. This
FRANCHISE does not deprive GRANTOR of any powers, rights or privileges it
now has, or may later acquire in the future, to use, perform work on or to regulate
the use of and to control GRANTOR's Streets covered by this FRANCHISE,
including without limitation the right to perform work on its roadways, right-of-
way or appurtenant drainage facilities, including constructing, altering, paving,
widening, grading, or excavating thereof
C. This FRANCHISE is subject to the general lawful police power of GRANTOR
affecting matters of municipal concern and not merely existing contractual rights
of GRANTEE. Nothing in this FRANCHISE shall be deemed to waive the
requirements of the other codes and ordinances of general applicability enacted by
GRANTOR.
D. This FRANCHISE authorizes GRANTEE to engage in providing Cable Service.
This FRANCHISE shall not be interpreted to prevent GRANTOR from imposing
additional conditions, including additional compensation conditions for use of the
rights-of-way should GRANTEE provide service other than Cable Service.
However, this FRANCHISE shall not be read as a concession by GRANTEE that
it needs authorization to provide service other than Cable Service.
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E. GRANTEE promises, as a condition of exercising the privileges granted by this
FRANCHISE, GRANTEE will comply with the terms and conditions of this
FRANCHISE.
2.2 Use of Public Streets and Ways.
Subject to GRANTOR's supervision and control, GRANTEE may erect, install,
construct, repair, replace, reconstruct, and retain in, on, over, under, upon, across, and
along the public Streets within the Franchise Area such wires, cables, conductors, ducts,
conduits, vaults, amplifiers, pedestals, attachments and other property and equipment as
are necessary and appurtenant to the operation of a Cable System for the provision of
Cable Service within the Franchise Area. GRANTEE shall comply with all applicable
construction codes, laws, ordinances, regulations and procedures, must obtain any and all
necessary permits from the Public Works Department prior to commencing any
construction activities. GRANTEE, through this FRANCHISE, is granted extensive and
valuable rights to operate its Cable System for profit using the streets within the
Franchise Area in compliance with all applicable GRANTOR construction codes and
procedures. As trustee for the public, GRANTOR is entitled to fair compensation to be
paid for these valuable rights throughout the term of this FRANCHISE.
2.3 Duration.
A. The term of this FRANCHISE and all rights, privileges, obligations and
restrictions pertaining thereto shall be from the effective date of this
FRANCHISE through June, 2012.
B. If GRANTEE successfully completes an upgrade as set forth in Section 10, and if
such upgrade is confirmed by COUNTY, which confirmation will not be
unreasonably withheld, then GRANTEE shall be entitled to an automatic five (5)
year extension of the FRANCHISE term (that is, through June,2017).
2.4 Effective Date.
The effective date of this FRANCHISE shall be June ,2002, unless GRANTEE
fails to file an unconditional written acceptance of this FRANCHISE and post the
security required by Section 5.3 hereof by 2002, in which event this
FRANCHISE shall be null and void, and any and all rights of GRANTEE to own or
operate a Cable System within the Franchise Area under this FRANCHISE are hereby
terminated.
2.5 FRANCHISE Nonexclusive.
This FRANCHISE shall be nonexclusive, and is subject to all prior rights, interests,
agreements, permits, easements or licenses granted by GRANTOR to any Person to use
any Street, right-of-way, easement, or property for any purpose whatsoever, including the
right of GRANTOR to use same for any purpose it deems fit in connection with its
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exercise of lawful police power. GRANTOR may at any time grant authorization to use
the public rights-of-way for any purpose not incompatible with GRANTEE's authority
under this FRANCHISE and for such additional Franchises for Cable Systems, as
GRANTOR deems appropriate, upon such terms and conditions as GRANTOR deems
appropriate.
2.6 Grant of Other Franchises.
In the event GRANTOR enters into a FRANCHISE, permit, license, authorization, or
other agreement of any kind with any other Person or entity other than GRANTEE to
enter into GRANTOR's Streets for the purpose of constructing or operating a Cable
System or providing Cable Service to any part of the Franchise Area or is required to
extend Cable Service to under the provisions of Section 11.2 of this FRANCHISE, the
material provisions thereof shall be reasonably comparable to those contained herein, in
order that one operator not be granted an unfair competitive advantage over another, and
to provide all parties equal protection under the law.
2.7 Police Powers.
GRANTEE's rights hereunder are subject to the lawful police powers of GRANTOR to
adopt and enforce ordinances necessary to the safety, health, and welfare of the public,
and GRANTEE agrees to comply with all applicable laws and ordinances enacted, or
hereafter enacted, by GRANTOR or any other legally -constituted governmental unit
having lawful jurisdiction over the subject matter hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
GRANTOR agrees it will not impose any regulation pursuant to the Cable Act not
contained herein during the term of this FRANCHISE. Provided however, in the event of
conflicts between provisions of this FRANCHISE and other ordinances of GRANTOR,
the terms of this FRANCHISE shall prevail except as to health and safety issues.
2.8 Relations to Other Provisions of Law.
This FRANCHISE and all rights and privileges granted under the FRANCHISE are
subject to, and GRANTEE must exercise all rights in accordance with, applicable law, as
amended over the FRANCHISE term. However, this FRANCHISE is a contract, subject
only to GRANTOR's exercise of its police and other powers and all applicable laws. This
FRANCHISE does not confer rights or immunities upon GRANTEE other than as
expressly provided herein. GRANTEE does not waive its right to challenge the
lawfulness of a particular enactment, including on the grounds that a particular action is
an unconstitutional impairment of contractual rights. The FRANCHISE issued and the
FRANCHISE fee paid hereunder are in lieu of any other required permit, authorization,
fee, charge or tax, unless expressly stated herein
2.9 Effect of Acceptance.
By accepting this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE:
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A. Acknowledges and accepts GRANTOR's legal right to issue and enforce this
FRANCHISE;
B. Accepts and agrees to comply with each and every provision of this
FRANCHISE; and
C. Agrees that its will not raise any claim to the contrary.
SECTION 3. FRANCHISE FEE AND FINANCIAL CONTROLS
3.1 FRANCHISE Fee.
As compensation for the benefits and privileges granted under this FRANCHISE and in
consideration of permission to use GRANTOR's Streets, GRANTEE shall pay as a
FRANCHISE fee to GRANTOR, throughout the duration of this FRANCHISE, an
amount equal to five percent (5%) of GRANTEE's Gross Revenues. Accrual of such
FRANCHISE fees shall commence as of the effective date of this FRANCHISE. The
FRANCHISE fees are in addition to all other fees, assessments, taxes or payments of
general applicability that GRANTEE may be required to pay under any federal or, state
law and are in lieu of all other fees, assessments, taxes or payments of general
applicability that GRANTEE may be required to pay under any County or other local
law.
3.2 Payments.
GRANTEE's FRANCHISE fee payments to GRANTOR shall be computed monthly.
Each monthly payment shall -be due and payable no later than thirty (30) days after the
last day of the preceding month.
3.3 Acceptance of Payment and Recomputation.
No acceptance of any payment shall be construed as an accord by GRANTOR that the
amount paid is, in fact, the correct amount, nor shall any acceptance of payments be
construed as a release of any claim GRANTOR may have for further or additional sums
payable or for the performance of any other obligation of GRANTEE.
3.4 Monthly FRANCHISE Fee Reports.
Each payment shall be accompanied by a written report to GRANTOR, containing an
accurate statement in summarized form, as well as in detail, of GRANTEE's Gross
Revenues and the computation of the payment amount.
3.5 Audits.
On an annual basis, upon thirty (30) days' prior written notice, at GRANTOR's sole cost
and expense (except as expressly provided below), GRANTOR shall have the right to
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conduct an independent audit during normal business hours of GRANTEE's records
reasonably related to the administration or enforcement of this FRANCHISE, in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. COUNTY may hire an
independent certified public accountant to audit GRANTEE's financial records, in which
case GRANTEE shall provide copies of all necessary records to the certified public
accountant. If the audit shows that FRANCHISE fees have been underpaid by five
percent (5%) or more, GRANTEE shall pay the reasonable fees of the independent
certified public accountant within thirty (30) days from receipt of the audit results. If such
audit reflects an overpayment, GRANTOR shall refund such overpayment to GRANTEE
within thirty (30) days of the audit results. Any such audit shall take place within thirty-
six (36) months following the respective calendar year and for records thereof in
question.
3.6 Interest on Late Payments.
In the event that a FRANCHISE fee payment or other sum is not received by GRANTOR
on or before the due date, or is underpaid, GRANTEE shall pay in addition to the
payment, or sum due, interest from the due date at a rate equal to the interest rate
specified for judgments entered in the Superior Courts of the State of Washington.
3.7 Alternative Remedies.
If any Section, subsection, paragraph, term or provision of this FRANCHISE or any
ordinance, law, or document incorporated herein by reference is held by a court of
competent jurisdiction to be invalid, unconstitutional or unenforceable, such holding shall
be confined in its operation to the Section, subsection, paragraph, term or provision
directly involved in the controversy in which such holding shall have been rendered and
shall not in any way affect the validity of any other Section, subsection, paragraph, term
or provision hereof.
3.8 Additional Commitments Not FRANCHISE Fees.
No term or condition in this FRANCHISE shall in any way modify or affect
GRANTEE's obligation to pay FRANCHISE fees to GRANTOR. Although the total sum
of FRANCHISE fee payments and additional commitments set forth elsewhere in this
FRANCHISE (e.g. business license fee) may total more than five percent (5%) of
GRANTEE's Gross Revenues in any 12 -month period, GRANTEE agrees that the
additional commitments herein are not FRANCHISE fees as defined under any federal
law, nor are they to be offset or credited against any FRANCHISE fee payments due to
GRANTOR.
3.9 Costs of Publication.
GRANTEE shall pay the reasonable cost of newspaper notices and publication pertaining
to this FRANCHISE and any amendments thereto, as such notice or publication is
reasonably required by GRANTOR or applicable law.
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3.10 Payment on Termination.
If this FRANCHISE terminates for any reason, GRANTEE shall file with COUNTY
within ninety (90) calendar days of the date of the termination, a financial statement,
certified by a declaration or affidavit of an officer of GRANTEE, showing the Gross
Revenues received by GRANTEE since the end of the previous fiscal year. COUNTY
reserves the right to satisfy any remaining financial obligations of GRANTEE to
COUNTY by utilizing the funds available pursuant to security provided by GRANTEE in
accordance with Section 5.
SECTION 4. ADMINISTRATION AND REGULATION
4.1 Authority.
GRANTOR is vested with the power and right to regulate the exercise of the privileges
permitted by this FRANCHISE in the public interest, or to delegate that power and right,
or any part thereof, to the extent permitted under state and local law, to any agent, in its
sole discretion.
4.2 Rates and Charges.
All of GRANTEE's rates and charges related to or regarding Cable Service shall be
subject to regulation by GRANTOR to the full extent authorized by applicable federal,
state and local laws.
4.3 Rate Discrimination.
All of GRANTEE's rates and charges shall be published (in the form of a publicly
available rate card), and shall be nondiscriminatory as to all Persons and organizations of
similar classes, under similar circumstances and conditions. GRANTEE shall apply its
rates in accordance with governing law, with similar rates and charges for all Subscribers
receiving similar Cable Service, without regard to race, color, familial, ethnic or national
origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital, military or economic status, or
physical or mental disability, or geographic location in the Franchise Area. GRANTEE
shall provide equivalent Cable Service to all Residential Subscribers at similar rates and
to Commercial Subscribers as authorized by applicable laws. Nothing herein shall be
construed to prohibit:
A. The temporary reduction or waiving of rates or charges in conjunction with valid
promotional campaigns;
B. The offering of reasonable discounts to senior citizens or economically
disadvantaged citizens;
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C. GRANTEE from establishing different and nondiscriminatory rates and charges
and classes of service for commercial customers, as well as different
nondiscriminatory monthly rates for classes of commercial customers as
allowable by federal law and regulations; or (D) GRANTEE from establishing
different and nondiscriminatory rates and charges for residential Subscribers as
allowable by federal law and regulations.
4.4 Filing of Rates and Charges.
A. Upon written request, not more frequent than monthly, GRANTEE shall provide
to GRANTOR a complete schedule of applicable rates and charges for Cable
Service provided under this FRANCHISE. Nothing in this subsection shall be
construed to require GRANTEE to file rates and charges under temporary
reductions or waivers of rates and charges in conjunction with promotional
campaigns provided that GRANTEE shall make reasonable efforts to notify
GRANTOR in writing in advance of such promotions.
B. GRANTEE shall provide upon written or faxed request from GRANTOR a
complete schedule of current rates and charges for any and all Leased Access
Channels, or portions of such Channels, provided by GRANTEE.
4.5 Time Limits Strictly Construed.
Whenever this FRANCHISE sets forth a time for any act to be performed by GRANTEE,
such time shall be deemed to be of the essence, and any failure of GRANTEE to perform
within the allotted time may be considered a material violation of this FRANCHISE and
sufficient grounds for GRANTOR to invoke any relevant provision of this FRANCHISE,
subject to the notice and cure provisions of Section 14. However, in the event that
GRANTEE is prevented or delayed in the performance of any of its obligations under this
FRANCHISE by reason beyond the reasonable control of GRANTEE, such as acts of
God (for example, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, power outages, strikes or walkouts,
technical failures or unusually severe weather conditions), GRANTEE's performance
shall be excused during the force majeure occurrence and GRANTEE thereafter shall,
under the circumstances, promptly perform the affected obligations under this
FRANCHISE or procure a substitute for such obligation which is reasonably satisfactory
to GRANTOR. GRANTEE shall not be excused by mere economic hardship nor by
misfeasance or malfeasance of its directors, officers or employees.
4.6 Performance Evaluation Sessions.
A. COUNTY may hold upon no less than ninety (90) days written notice to
GRANTEE and no more frequently than once per calendar year regular
performance evaluation sessions upon the sixty (60) and one hundred twenty
(120) month anniversary dates of the effective date of this FRANCHISE. All such
evaluation sessions shall be conducted by COUNTY and GRANTEE jointly.
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B. Special evaluation sessions may be held at any time by COUNTY during the term
of this FRANCHISE upon the same notice as specified in Subsection (A).
C. All regular evaluation sessions shall be open to the public and announced at least
one (1) week in advance in a newspaper of general circulation in the Franchise
Area.
D. Evaluation sessions shall deal with GRANTEE's performance of the terms and
conditions of the FRANCHISE and compliance with state and federal laws and
regulations.
E. As part of the performance evaluation session, GRANTEE shall submit to
COUNTY a plant survey report, or map, reasonably acceptable to COUNTY
which includes a description of the portions of the Franchise Area that are cabled
and have alI Cable Services available, including those areas where the system has
been upgraded pursuant to Section 10 of this FRANCHISE if so requested by
COUNTY. Such report shall also include the number of miles and location of
overhead and underground cable plant. If COUNTY has reason to believe that a
portion or all of the Cable System does not meet the applicable FCC technical
standards, COUNTY, at its expense, retains the right to appoint a qualified
independent engineer to evaluate and verify the technical performance of the
Cable System; provided, GRANTOR promptly provides GRANTEE with a copy
of such report, at GRANTEE's cost, and that GRANTEE has a representative
present during any such evaluation and verification.
F. During evaluations under this Section, GRANTEE shall cooperate with COUNTY
and shall provide such information and documents that have been filed with the
FCC within the most recent three (3) year period.
SECTION 5. FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Insurance Requirements.
A. General Requirement. GRANTEE must have adequate insurance during the entire
term of this FRANCHISE to protect against claims for injuries to Persons or
damages to property which in any way relate to, arise from, or are connected with
this FRANCHISE or involve GRANTEE, its agents, representatives, contractors,
subcontractors and their employees.
B. Initial Insurance Limits. GRANTEE must keep insurance in effect in accordance
with the minimum insurance limits herein set forth by GRANTOR from time to
time. GRANTEE shall obtain policies for the following initial minimum
insurance limits:
i. Commercial General Liability: Two -million dollars ($2,000,000)
combined single limit per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury,
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and property damage, and for those policies with aggregate limits, a two -
and -one-half million dollars ($2,500,000) aggregate limit;
ii. Automobile Liability: Two -million dollars ($2,000,000) combined single
limit per accident for bodily injury and property damage; and
iii. Employer's Liability: Two -million dollars ($2,000,000).
5.2 Indemnification.
A. Scope of Indemnity. GRANTEE shall, at its sole cost and expense, indemnify,
hold harmless, and defend GRANTOR and its officers, boards, commissions,
agents, and employees against any and all claims, including, but not limited to,
third party claims, suits, causes of action, proceedings, and judgments for
damages or equitable relief (the "Claims") solely to the extent the Claims arise
out of GRANTEE's or GRANTEE's agent's negligent acts or negligent
omissions; provided, however, GRANTEE will not be obligated to indemnify
GRANTOR or its officers, commissions, agents, or employees should
GRANTOR intervene in any proceeding regarding the grant of this FRANCHISE.
This indemnity provision shall include damages and liabilities, if and to the extent
such damages and liabilities are a result of GRANTEE's or GRANTEE's agent's
negligent acts or negligent omissions.
B. Duty to Give Notice and Tender Defense. GRANTOR shall give GRANTEE
written notice within five (5) days of receiving any claim or of the
commencement of any action, suit or other proceeding covered by the indemnity
in this Section. Failure of GRANTOR to provide such notice shall result in waiver
of GRANTEE's indemnification obligations with respect to such action; suit on -
other proceeding otherwise covered by the indemnity in this Section. In the event
any such claim arises, GRANTOR or any other indemnified party, as defined by
this FRANCHISE, shall tender the defense thereof to GRANTEE and GRANTEE
shall have the obligation and duty to defend, settle or compromise any claims
arising thereunder, and GRANTOR shall cooperate fully therein. GRANTEE
shall accept or decline the tender within ten (10) days of its receipt of the written
notice described above. In the event that GRANTEE declines defense of the claim
in violation of this Section 5.2, GRANTOR may defend such claim and seek
recovery from GRANTEE its reasonable expenses for attorneys' fees and other
expenses, including expert witness fees, incurred by GRANTOR for defense and
in seeking such recovery.
5.3 Worker's Compensation Waiver.
The provisions of Section 5.2 shall apply to claims by GRANTEE's own employees and
the employees of GRANTEE's agents, representatives, contractors, and subcontractors to
which GRANTEE might otherwise be immune under Title 51 RCW. This waiver of
immunity under Title 51 RCW has been mutually negotiated by the parties hereto, and
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GRANTEE acknowledges that COUNTY would not enter into this FRANCHISE without
GRANTEE's waiver thereof.
5.4 Performance Bond.
Upon or before the effective date of this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE shall obtain and
maintain during the entire term of this FRANCHISE, including any extensions or
renewals thereof, at its own cost and expense, a performance bond that shall be filed with
GRANTOR in the amount of dollars ($ ) as
guarantee for the faithful performance by it of all the provisions of this FRANCHISE.
Such bond shall be reviewed at the end of sixty (60) months. The amount of the bond
shall be set for the remainder of the FRANCHISE term at the greater of
dollars ($ ) or the amount of FRANCHISE fees paid in
the sixtieth (60 ) month.
SECTION 6. CUSTOMER SERVICE
6.1 Customer Service Standards.
GRANTEE shall reasonably meet or exceed any customer service standards adopted by
the FCC so long as they are commercially reasonable.
6.2 Subscriber Privacy.
GRANTEE will comply with privacy rights of Subscribers in accordance with federal
and state law.
6.3 Local Office.
Throughout the FRANCHISE term, GRANTEE must maintain, at a minimum, one (1)
customer service center located in Grant County, which will be open during normal
business hours to provide Subscribers the opportunity for the receipt and pickup of
Subscriber equipment and for bill payments and complaints. GRANTEE shall maintain
telephones and other equipment so that customer complaints and service requests can be
received by GRANTEE on a twenty-four (24) hour basis at a toll-free telephone number.
6.4 Emergency Broadcast.
GRANTEE shall cooperate to the extent required by FCC rule or the Cable Act with
Grant County Emergency Services (GCES) or its successor agency to accommodate
Emergency Alert System information or other information the GCES deems appropriate
to be broadcast over GRANTEE's system compatible with GRANTEE's equipment.
SECTION 7. REPORTS AND RECORDS
7.1 Open Records.
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A. GRANTEE shall manage all of its operations in accordance with a policy of
keeping its documents and records open and accessible to COUNTY. COUNTY
shall have access to, and the right to inspect, any books and records of
GRANTEE, which are reasonably related and necessary to the administration or
enforcement of the terms of this FRANCHISE. GRANTEE shall not deny
COUNTY access to any such records of GRANTEE on the basis that
GRANTEE's records are under the control of any parent corporation, affiliated
entity or a third party related to this FRANCHISE. COUNTY may, in writing,
request copies of any such records or books and GRANTEE shall provide such
copies within thirty (30) days of the transmittal of such request. One (1) copy of
all reports and records required under this or any other Section shall be furnished
to COUNTY at the sole expense of GRANTEE. If the requested books and
records are too voluminous, or for security reasons cannot be copied or removed,
then GRANTEE may request, in writing within ten (10) days, that COUNTY
inspect them at one of GRANTEE's local area offices. If any books or records of
GRANTEE are not kept in a local area office and not made available in copies to
COUNTY upon written request as set forth above, and if COUNTY reasonably
determines that an examination of such records is necessary or appropriate to the
performance of any of COUNTY's duties, administration or enforcement of this
FRANCHISE, then all reasonable travel expenses incurred in making such
examination shall be paid by GRANTEE. If any books or records of GRANTEE
are not kept in a local office, GRANTEE will provide or otherwise make such
documents available for inspection and review at the local office within ten (10)
working days.
B. GRANTEE shall at all times maintain and allow COUNTY reasonable access and
the right to review a full and complete set of plans' records and "as built" maps in
GRANTEE's possession showing the exact location of all Cable System
equipment installed or in use in the Franchise Area, exclusive of electronics,
Subscriber drops and equipment provided in Subscribers' homes. These maps
shall be maintained in a standard format and medium agreed upon by COUNTY
and GRANTEE.
7.2 Confidentiality.
COUNTY agrees to treat as confidential any books and records that constitute proprietary
or confidential information under federal or state law, to the extent GRANTEE makes
COUNTY aware of such confidentiality, GRANTEE shall be responsible for clearly and
conspicuously stamping the word "Confidential" on each document that contains
confidential or proprietary information, and shall provide a brief written explanation as to
why such information is confidential under state or federal law. If COUNTY receives a
demand from any Person for disclosure of any information designated by GRANTEE as
confidential, COUNTY shall, so far as consistent with applicable law, advise GRANTEE
in advance so that GRANTEE may take appropriate steps to protect its interests and
provide GRANTEE with a copy of any written request by the party demanding access to
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such information within a reasonable time. Until otherwise ordered by a court or agency
of competent jurisdiction, COUNTY agrees that, to the extent permitted by state and
federal law, it shall deny access to any of GRANTEE's books and records marked
confidential as set forth above to any Person.
7.3 Complaint File.
GRANTEE shall keep an accurate and comprehensive file of any and all complaints
regarding the Cable System as required by the FCC.
7.4 Inspection of Facilities.
GRANTOR may, at its own cost and expense, inspect upon reasonable written request
any of GRANTEE's facilities and equipment to confirm performance under this
FRANCHISE at any time upon at least five (5) business days notice, or, in case of an
emergency, upon demand without prior notice.
7.5 False Statements.
Any intentional false or misleading statement or representation in any report required by
this FRANCHISE may be deemed a material violation of this FRANCHISE and may
subject GRANTEE to all remedies, legal or equitable, which are available to COUNTY
under this FRANCHISE or otherwise.
SECTION 8. PROGRAMMING
8.1 Broad Programming Categories.
A. GRANTEE's Cable System shall provide a wide diversity of programming.
GRANTEE shall provide at least the following broad categories of programming
to the extent such categories are commercially reasonably available:
i. Educational programming;
ii. Washington State news and information;
iii. Sports;
iv. General entertainment (including movies);
V. Children/family-oriented;
vi. Arts, culture and performing arts;
vii. Foreign language;
viii. Science/documentary;
ix. Weather information;
X. Programming addressed to diverse ethnic and minority interests in the
Franchise Area; and
xi. National, state, and local government affairs.
B. GRANTEE shall not delete any broad category of programming within its control.
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C. The parties expressly agree that the programming described in Section 8.I(A)
represent broad categories of video programming within the meaning of 47 U.S.C.
544(b) (2) (B), as may be amended from time to time.
8.2 Parental Control Device.
Upon request by any Subscriber, GRANTEE shall make available a parental control or
lockout device; traps or filters to enable a Subscriber to control access to both the audio
and video portions of any or all channels. GRANTEE shall inform its Subscribers of the
availability of the lockout device at the time of their initial subscription and annually
thereafter.
8.3 Leased Access Channels.
GRANTEE shall comply with the FCC's rules and regulations regarding Leased Access
Channels.
8.4 Continuity of Service.
A. It shall be the right of all Subscribers to continue to receive Cable Service from
GRANTEE insofar as their financial and other obligations to GRANTEE are
satisfied and GRANTEE continues to serve the Franchise Area. Subject to the
force majeure provisions of this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE shall use
commercially reasonable efforts to ensure that all Subscribers receive continuous,
uninterrupted Cable Service.
B. In the event of a change in ownership, or in the event a new Cable Operator
acquires the Cable System in accordance with this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE
shall reasonably cooperate with GRANTOR and such new Cable Operator in
maintaining continuity of service to all Subscribers.
8.5 Community Programming Needs.
At the written request of the legislative authority of COUNTY, but no more than twice
during the term of this FRANCHISE, ninety (90) days after a Performance evaluation
session as provided in Section 4.6, GRANTEE may furnish to all Subscribers along with
their monthly service statement, a list of broad categories of programming, and other
services available to GRANTEE. The menu may be in the format of a mailback survey
for determination of the Subscriber's programming preference. The results of the survey
are to be provided COUNTY as soon as commercially practical by GRANTEE with any
proposed change(s) in programming.
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8.6 Service for Disabled.
To the extent technically feasible and in accordance with FCC requirements, GRANTEE
shall retransmit all closed -captioned signals made available by programmers in
conjunction with programming in its line- up and which are provided in order to facilitate
viewing by handicapped persons. GRANTEE shall comply with the Americans with
Disabilities Act, any amendments thereto and any other applicable federal, state or local
laws or regulations. To the extent technically feasible and in accordance with FCC
requirements, GRANTEE shall maintain the necessary head -end equipment to make
Second Audio Program (SAP) features available to Subscribers. GRANTEE's obligations
under this subsection do not extend to providing customer premises equipment.
SECTION 9. GENERAL STREET USE AND CONSTRUCTION
9.1 Construction.
A. Subject to applicable laws, regulations and ordinances of GRANTOR and the
provisions of this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE may perform all construction
necessary for the operation of its Cable System. All construction and maintenance
of any and all facilities within Streets incident to GRANTEE's Cable System
shall, regardless of who performs the construction, be and remain GRANTEE's
responsibility. GRANTEE shall apply for, and obtain, all permits necessary for
construction or installation of any facilities, and for excavating and laying any
facilities within the Streets. GRANTEE shall pay, prior to issuance, all applicable
fees of the requisite construction permits.
B. Prior to beginning any construction, GRANTEE shall provide GRANTOR with a
construction schedule for work in the Streets. All construction shall be performed
in compliance with this FRANCHISE. When obtaining a permit, GRANTEE shall
inquire about other construction currently in progress, planned or proposed, in
order to investigate thoroughly all opportunities for joint trenching or boring.
Whenever it is possible and reasonably practicable to joint trench or share bores
or cuts, GRANTEE shall work with other providers, licensees, permittees and
franchisees so as to reduce as far as possible the number of Street cuts.
9.2 Location of Facilities.
GRANTEE shall use the one call locator service prior to performing any excavation in
GRANTOR's Streets.
9.3 Relocation.
GRANTOR shall have the right to reasonably require GRANTEE to change the location
of any part of GRANTEE's Cable System within the Streets when the public convenience
requires such change, and the expense thereof shall be paid by GRANTEE. Should
GRANTEE fail to remove or relocate any such facilities by the date reasonably
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established by GRANTOR, GRANTOR may effect such removal or relocation, and the
expense thereof shall be paid by GRANTEE, including all reasonable costs and expenses
incurred by GRANTOR due to GRANTEE's delay. If GRANTOR requires GRANTEE
to relocate its facilities located within the Streets, GRANTOR shall make a reasonable
effort to provide GRANTEE with an alternate location within the Streets.
9.4 Restoration of Streets.
A. Whenever GRANTEE disturbs the surface of any Street for any purpose,
GRANTEE shall promptly restore the Street to at least its prior condition.
B. All of GRANTEE's work under this FRANCHISE, and this Section in particular,
shall be done in strict compliance with this FRANCHISE rules, regulations and
ordinances of GRANTOR. Prior to making any Street or right-of-way cuts or
openings, GRANTEE shall provide written notice to GRANTOR.
9.5 Maintenance and Workmanship.
A. GRANTEE's Cable System shall be constructed and maintained in such manner
as not to interfere with sewers, water pipes, or any other property of GRANTOR,
or with any other pipes, wires, conduits, pedestals, structures, equipment or other
facilities that may have been laid in the Streets by, or under, GRANTOR's
authority.
B. GRANTEE shall provide and use any equipment necessary to control and carry
GRANTEE's Cable System signals so as to prevent injury to GRANTOR's
property or property belonging to any Person. GRANTEE, at its own expense,
shall repair, change and improve its facilities to keep them in good repair, and
safe and reasonably presentable condition.
9.6 Reservation of GRANTOR Street Rights.
Nothing in this FRANCHISE shall prevent GRANTOR or utilities owned, maintained or
operated by public entities other than GRANTOR, from constructing sewers; grading,
paving, repairing or altering any Street; repairing or removing water mains; or
constructing or establishing any other public work or improvement. All such work shall
be done, insofar as practicable, so as not to obstruct, injure or prevent the use and
operation of GRANTEE's Cable System. However, if any of GRANTEE's Cable System
interferes with the construction or repair of any Street or public improvement, including
construction, repair or removal of a sewer or water main, GRANTEE's Cable System
shall be relocated in accordance with 9.3.
9.7 Use of Conduits by GRANTOR.
GRANTEE and COUNTY shall grant to each other, free of expense, joint use of any and
all poles, ducts, conduits or equipment in the streets or other public places owned by
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either party for any proper purpose, insofar as the same may be done without interfering
with the use and enjoyment of either party's own wires and other facilities and provided
that all such joint use shall be in full compliance with all rules, regulations, requirements
and conditions of the National Electrical Safety Code prepared by the National Bureau of
Standards, the National Electrical Code of the National Board of Fire Underwriters
affecting electrical installations which may be presently in effect or future amendments
thereto as well as being subject to COUNTY's obligations to any other franchise holder
with which it may have a similar joint use agreement. Additionally, COUNTY may
install or affix and maintain wires and equipment owned by COUNTY for municipal
purposes in or upon GRANTEE's equipment in the Streets and other public places
without charge to COUNTY, to the extent space therein or thereon is reasonably
available, and pursuant to all applicable County Ordinances and Codes. For the purposes
of this Subsection 9.7, "municipal purposes" includes, but is not limited to, the use of the
structures and installations by GRANTOR for fire, police, traffic, water, telephone, or
signal systems, but not for Cable System purposes in competition with GRANTEE.
GRANTEE shall not deduct the value of such use of its facilities room its FRANCHISE
fees payable to GRANTOR.
9.8 Street Vacation.
If any Street or portion thereof used by GRANTEE is vacated by GRANTOR during the
term of this FRANCHISE, unless GRANTOR specifically reserves to GRANTEE the
right to continue its installation in the vacated Street, GRANTEE shall with thirty (30)
day written notice and without expense to GRANTOR either remove its facilities from
such streets and restore street in accordance with 9.4 or negotiate an arrangement with the
owner or controller of the vacated Street apart from this FRANCHISE.
9.9 Discontinuing Use of Facilities.
Whenever GRANTEE discontinues using any facility within the Streets, GRANTEE
shall provide written notice to GRANTOR's with a complete description of the facility
and the date on which GRANTEE intends to discontinue using the facility. GRANTEE
may remove the facility or request that GRANTOR allow it to remain in place.
Notwithstanding GRANTEE's request that any such facility remain in place, GRANTOR
may require GRANTEE to remove the facility from the Street or modify the facility to
protect the public health, welfare, safety, and convenience, or otherwise serve the public
interest. GRANTOR may require GRANTEE to perform a combination of modification
and removal of the facility. GRANTEE shall complete such removal or modification in
accordance with a schedule approved by GRANTOR. Until such time as GRANTEE
removes or modifies the facility, or until the rights to and responsibility for the facility
are accepted by another Person having authority to construct and maintain such facility,
GRANTEE shall be responsible for all necessary repairs and relocations of the facility, as
well as maintenance of the Street, in the same manner and degree as if the facility were in
active use, and GRANTEE shall retain all liability for such facility. If GRANTEE
abandons its facilities, GRANTOR may choose to use such facilities for any purpose
whatsoever including, but not limited to, public, governmental or educational purposes.
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For purposes of this Section 9.9, "abandons" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
15.1 of this FRANCHISE.
9.10 Hazardous Substances.
A. GRANTEE shall comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws, statutes,
regulations and orders concerning hazardous substances relating to GRANTEE's
Cable System in the Streets.
B. GRANTEE shall maintain and inspect its Cable System located in the Streets.
Upon reasonable written notice to GRANTEE, GRANTOR and GRANTEE may
jointly inspect GRANTEE's facilities in the Streets to determine if any release of
hazardous substances has occurred, or may occur, from or related to GRANTEE's
Cable System. In removing or modifying GRANTEE's facilities as provided in
this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE shall also remove all residues of hazardous
substances related thereto.
9.11 Undergrounding of Cable.
A. Wirine.
Where electric, telephone or other utility or other third party wiring is
installed underground : at the time of Cable System construction, or when
such wiring is subsequently placed underground, all Cable System lines or
wiring and equipment shall also be placed underground on a
nondiscriminatory basis with other wire line service at no additional
expense to GRANTOR. Related Cable System equipment such as
pedestals must be placed in accordance with applicable Code requirements
and underground utility rules as reasonably interpreted by GRANTOR's
Director of Public Works. In areas where electric, telephone or other
utility or other third party wiring is aerial, GRANTEE may install aerial
cable, except when a property owner or resident requests underground
installation and agrees to bear and pre -pay the additional cost in excess of
aerial installation.
ii. GRANTEE shall utilize existing poles and conduit wherever commercially
reasonable.
iii. This FRANCHISE does not grant, give or convey to GRANTEE the right
or privilege to install its facilities in any manner on specific utility poles or
equipment or any other Person without their permission except to the
extent permitted under applicable federal and state law.
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B. Repair and Restoration of Property.
i. GRANTEE shall protect public and private property from damage by its
Cable System. If damage occurs GRANTEE shall promptly notify the
property owner within twenty-four (24) hours of its knowledge of such
damage in writing or in person.
ii. If public or private property is disturbed or damaged by GRANTEE,
GRANTEE shall restore the property to its former condition, normal wear
and tear excepted. Public right-of-way shall be repaired and restored in
accordance with Section 9.4. Private property must be restored promptly,
considering the nature of the work that must be performed and in no event
later than five (5) business days.
iii. Prior to entering onto private property to construct, operate or repair its
Cable System where the property owner has not requested such
construction, operation or repair, GRANTEE shall give the Person
residing on or using the property adequate written notice (such as a door
hanger which clearly identifies the anticipated construction) that it intends
to work on the property, a description of the work it intends to perform
and a name and phone number the Person can call to protest or seek
modification of the work. Work shall be done in a manner that causes the
least interference with the rights and reasonable convenience of property
owners, residents and users.
C. Movement of Cable System For and By GRANTOR. To the extent necessary,
GRANTOR may remove, replace, modify or disconnect GRANTEE's facilities
and equipment located in the public right -of- way or on any other property of
GRANTOR in the case of fire, disaster, or other emergency, or when a project or
activity of GRANTOR's makes the removal, replacement, modification or
disconnection necessary or less expensive for GRANTOR. Except during an
emergency, GRANTOR shall provide reasonable written notice to GRANTEE
prior to taking such action and shall provide GRANTEE with reasonable
opportunity to perform such action. Following notice by GRANTOR, GRANTEE
shall remove, replace, modify or disconnect any of its facilities or equipment
within any public right-of-way, or on any other property of GRANTOR, except
that GRANTOR shall provide at least sixty (60) days' written notice of any major
capital improvement project which would require the removal, replacement,
modification or disconnection of GRANTEE's facilities or equipment. If
GRANTEE fails to complete this work within the time prescribed and to
GRANTOR's reasonable satisfaction, GRANTOR may cause such work to be
done and bill the cost of the work to GRANTEE. Within thirty (30) days of
receipt of an itemized list of those reasonable costs, GRANTEE shall pay
GRANTOR.
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D. Movement for Other Franchise Holders. If any removal, replacement,
modification or disconnection is required to accommodate the construction,
operation or repair of the facilities or equipment of another Franchise holder,
GRANTEE shall, after at least thirty (30) days' advance written notice, take
action to effect the necessary changes requested by the responsible entity at the
responsible entity's sole and pre -paid cost and expense.
E. Movement for Other Permittees. At the request of any Person holding a valid
permit and upon reasonable advance notice, GRANTEE shall temporarily raise,
lower or remove its wires as necessary to permit the moving of a building,
vehicle, equipment or other item. The permit holder must pay the expense of such
temporary changes, and GRANTEE may require a reasonable deposit of the
estimated payment in advance.
F. Tree Trimming. Subject to acquiring prior written permission of COUNTY,
GRANTEE shall have the authority but not the obligation to trim trees that
overhang a public right-of-way of COUNTY so as to prevent the branches of such
trees from coming in contact with its Cable System, in accordance with applicable
codes and regulations and accepted professional tree trimming practices; provided
that in an emergency situation GRANTEE may trim trees to protect its facilities in
which circumstance written notice of that the trimming occurred shall be
delivered to GRANTOR.
9.12 Codes.
GRANTEE shall strictly adhere to all building and zoning codes in effect at the time of
applicable construction. GRANTEE shall arrange its lines; cables and other
appurtenances, on both public and private property, in such a manner as to not cause
unreasonable interference with the use of said public or private property by any Person.
In the event of such interference, GRANTOR may require the removal or relocation of
GRANTEE's lines, cables and other appurtenances from the property in question.
9.13 Standards.
A. All work authorized and required hereunder shall be done in a safe, thorough and
workmanlike manner. GRANTEE must comply with all safety requirements, rules
and practices and employ all necessary devices as required by applicable law
during construction, operation and repair of its Cable System. By way of
illustration and not limitation, GRANTEE must comply with the National Electric
Code, National Electrical Safety Code and Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) Standards.
B. GRANTEE shall ensure that the drops are properly bonded to the electrical power
ground at the home, consistent with the requirements of the National Electric
Code and the National Electrical Safety Code. All non -conforming or non-
performing drops shall be replaced by GRANTEE as necessary.
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SECTION 10. MEANS OF FRANCIUSE TERM EXTENSION
A. Design.
GRANTEE has determined that an appropriate design plan for Cable System upgrade in
the Franchise Area will include the following components, which GRANTEE will
provide and construct, in order to take advantage of the five (5) year automatic extension
of the FRANCHISE term as provided in Section 2.3 hereof:
i. The System will utilize hybrid fiber/coax architecture. This will utilize
deployment of fiber optic cable throughout those portions of the System to be
upgraded. The upgraded plant will tie into a hybrid fiber/coaxial Cable System
already serving Subscribers;
ii. The System will serve no more than 1,500 customers per fiber node;
iii. All active electronics will be at minimum 550 MHZ capable equipment;
iv. All passive devices will pass a minimum bandwidth of550 MHZ;
V. Upon completion of the upgrade, the Cable System shall be capable of delivering
at least seventy-seven (77) analog and/or digital Channels of video programming
services to Subscribers; and
vi. As designed, upgraded and maintained, the facilities and equipment on the Cable
System must be able to deliver high quality signals that meet, or exceed, FCC
technical quality standards. The upgrade shall be completed on or before the end
of the seventh (7`h) year of the current ten (10) year term. The upgraded Cable
System will be capable of supporting addressable equipment throughout the
System and shall enable the provision of digitally compressed video services.
GRANTEE's upgraded Subscriber network shall, at all times, meet or exceed the
minimum system design and performance specifications required by the FCC.
B. System Functionality.
i. It is the intent of the parties to provide for a process that provides GRANTOR
with an opportunity to confirm the Cable System design and functionality and
ensure the Cable System meets the specifications described herein. GRANTEE
agrees that it shall provide GRANTOR, upon written request, information that
measures the relevant performance and functionality criteria of the Cable System
that is generated through GRANTEE's established assurance procedures;
ii. At least sixty (60) days before the upgrade of the Cable System begins,
GRANTEE shall provide GRANTOR with a proposed timeline for the upgrade
and an opportunity to review the proposed system design plan consistent with
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GRANTEE's obligations as described in section 10(A) GRANTOR shall indicate,
in writing, to GRANTEE, within thirty (30) days of the receipt and review of
materials, as to any aspects of the timeline and/or design plan GRANTOR
believes are inconsistent with the requirements set forth herein in Section 10(A)
GRANTEE shall respond within thirty (30) days to GRANTOR to resolve any
inconsistencies;
iii. GRANTEE and GRANTOR may meet to discuss the progress of the upgrade and
work cooperatively to speed the construction (e.g. by discussing any problems in
obtaining permits) and to minimize the impact upon Subscribers. At each
meeting, GRANTEE will provide a progress report on the upgrade detailing its
progress in satisfying the requirements of this Section; and
iv. GRANTEE will take prompt corrective action if it finds that ant facilities or
equipment on the Cable System are not operating as expected, or if it finds that
facilities and equipment do not comply with the requirements of this
FRANCHISE or applicable law.
C. Timing of Construction.
GRANTEE's decisions on constructing plant for service from each hub or node shall be
based solely upon legitimate engineering decisions and cost analysis and shall not take
into consideration the income level of the Franchise Area.
SECTION 11. TEST AND COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES
Upon reasonable written request, GRANTEE shall advise GRANTOR of schedules and methods
for testing the Cable System on a regular basis to determine compliance with the provisions of
applicable FCC technical standards. Representatives of GRANTOR may witness tests, and any
written test reports filed with the FCC may be made available to GRANTOR upon reasonable
written request.
As required by FCC Rules, GRANTEE shall conduct proof of performance tests and cumulative
leakage index tests designed to demonstrate compliance with FCC requirements. GRANTEE
shall provide GRANTOR copies of the results of such tests that are filed with the FCC upon
written request.
SECTION 12. SERVICE EXTENSION, CONSTRUCTION, AND INTERCONNECTION
12.1 Equivalent Service.
It is GRANTEE's general policy that all residential dwelling units in the Franchise Area
served by GRANTEE's Cable System have equivalent availability to Cable Service from
GRANTEE's Cable System under nondiscriminatory rates and reasonable terms and
conditions.
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12.2 Service Availability.
A. With respect to aerial line extensions, GRANTEE shall extend energized cable
from any existing terminus of trunk cable of its Cable System to any area in
COUNTY in which aerial power and telephone utility services are available and
which has a density of at least eight (8) Dwelling Units along one- quarter (1/4) of
a linear mile of cable, provided that the Dwelling Unit nearest to the existing
terminus of trunk cable of the Cable System is situated no more than one-eighth
(1/8) of a linear mile of cable from the existing terminus of trunk cable of the
Cable System.
B. With respect to underground line extensions, GRANTEE shall extend energized
cable from any existing terminus of trunk cable of its Cable System to any area in
COUNTY in which underground power and telephone utility services are
available and which has a density of at least ten (10) Dwelling Units along one-
quarter (1/4) of a linear mile of cable, provided that the Dwelling Unit nearest to
the existing terminus of trunk cable of the Cable System is situated no more than
one-eighth (1/8) of a linear mile of cable from the existing terminus of trunk cable
of the Cable System.
C. Construction of the line extensions required by subsection (A) and (8) above shall
commence within one hundred twenty (120) days after the (i) the determination of
the minimum densities as provided in such clauses and (ii) the receipt by
GRANTEE of a request for service to such a Dwelling Unit along with the
associated first month's payment for services and the applicable installation fees.
As used in this Section 12.2, the term "Dwelling Unit" shall mean a single-family
or multi -family dwelling unit that (x) is fully -constructed and capable of
occupancy in accordance with applicable building, housing and zoning codes, and
(y) is situated along public easements to which GRANTEE can gain access.
12.3 Connection of Public Facilities.
GRANTEE shall, at no cost to GRANTOR, provide at least one (1) outlet of Basic and
expanded basic programming to all buildings in the Franchise Area owned by
GRANTOR, as designated by GRANTOR on the attached Schedule A. In addition,
GRANTEE shall provide, at no cost to the building owner, one (1) outlet of Basic and
expanded basic programming to all such future public buildings owned by GRANTOR if
the drop line to such building does not exceed one -hundred twenty-five (125) cable feet
from the terminus of trunk cable of the Cable System or if GRANTOR agrees to pay the
incremental cost of such drop line in excess of one -hundred twenty-five (125) cable feet,
including the cost of such excess labor and materials. Outlets of Basic and expanded
basic programming provided in accordance with this subsection may be used to distribute
Cable Service throughout such buildings, provided such distribution can be accomplished
without causing Cable System disruption and general technical standards are maintained.
COUNTY shall be responsible for all costs of such distribution of the Cable Service
provided, to insure it is done in accordance with the technical requirements of the
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industry to avoid an impact on GRANTEE's Cable System, and any such distribution
wiring shall be tested by GRANTEE to insure the expansion does not impair
GRANTEE's Cable System.
SECTION 13. STANDBY POWER
GRANTEE shall provide standby power generating capacity at the Cable System Headend
capable of providing at least twelve (12) hours of emergency operation. GRANTEE shall
maintain standby power system supplies, for outages affecting more than ten (10%) of
Subscribers, rated for at least two (2) hours duration, throughout the trunk and distribution
networks. In addition, throughout the term of this FRANCHISE, GRANTEE shall have a plan. in
place, along with all resources necessary for implementing such plan, for dealing with outages
affecting more than ten (10%) of Subscribers for more than two (2) hours. This outage plan and
evidence of requisite implementation resources shall be presented to GRANTOR no later than
ninety (90) days following the effective date of this FRANCHISE.
SECTION 14. FRANCHISE VIOLATIONS; REVOCATION OF FRANCHISE
14.1 Procedure for Remedying FRANCHISE Violations.
A. If GRANTOR reasonably believes that GRANTEE has failed to perform any
obligation under this FRANCHISE or has failed to perform in a timely manner,
GRANTOR shall notify GRANTEE in writing, stating with reasonable specificity
the nature of the alleged violation. GRANTEE shall have thirty (30) days from the
date of receipt of such notice to:
i. Respond to GRANTOR, contesting GRANTOR's assertion that a
violation has occurred, and request a hearing in accordance with
subsection C below; or
ii. Cure the violation; or
iii. Notify GRANTOR that GRANTEE cannot cure the violation within the
thirty (30) days, because of the nature of the violation and notify
GRANTOR in writing of what steps GRANTEE shall take to cure the
violation including GRANTEE's projected completion date for such cure.
In such case, GRANTOR shall set a hearing date within thirty (30) days of
receipt of such response in accordance with subsection (B) below.
B. In the event that GRANTEE notifies GRANTOR that it cannot cure the violation
within the thirty (30) day cure period, GRANTOR or its designee shall set a
public hearing within thirty (30) days of GRANTOR's receipt of such notice to
review and determine whether GRANTEE has taken reasonable steps to cure the
violation and whether GRANTEE's proposed plan and completion date for cure
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are reasonable. In the event such plan and completion date are found to be
reasonable, the same shall be approved by GRANTOR.
C. In the event that GRANTEE fails to cure the violation within the thirty (30) day
basic cure period, or within an extended cure period approved by GRANTOR or
designee pursuant to subsection (B), GRANTOR or designee shall set a public
hearing to determine what sanctions shall be applied. In the event that GRANTEE
contests GRANTOR's assertion that a violation has occurred, and requests a
hearing in accordance with subsection (A)(i) above, GRANTOR or designee shall
set a public hearing within sixty (60) days of GRANTOR's receipt of the hearing
request to determine whether the violation has occurred, and if a violation is
found, what sanctions shall be applied.
D. In the case of any hearing pursuant to this Section, GRANTOR shall notify
GRANTEE of the hearing in writing and at the hearing, GRANTEE shall be
provided an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence in its defense.
GRANTOR shall also hear any other Person interested therein.
E, If, after the public hearing, GRANTOR or designee determines that a violation
exists, GRANTOR or designee may utilize one or more of the following remedies
subject to GRANTEE's rights under federal, state or local law to appeal such
determination:
i. Order GRANTEE to correct or remedy the violation within a reasonable
time frame as GRANTOR or designee shall determine;
ii. Revoke this FRANCHISE, subject to subsection (F) of this Section; and/or
iii. Pursue any other legal or equitable remedy available under this
FRANCHISE or any applicable law.
F. This FRANCHISE shall not be revoked except by County legislative authority
after notice and hearing as set forth in this Section and in accordance with the
Cable Act and other applicable law.
G. The determination as to whether a violation of this FRANCHISE has occurred
shall be within the sole discretion of GRANTOR or its designee, provided that
any such final determination shall be subject to review by a court of competent
jurisdiction under applicable law
14.2 Revocation.
In addition to all other rights and powers retained by GRANTOR under this
FRANCHISE or otherwise, and subject to the provisions of Section 14.1 GRANTOR
reserves the right to forfeit and terminate this FRANCHISE and all rights and privileges
of GRANTEE hereunder in the event of a material violation of its terms and conditions.
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A material violation by GRANTEE shall include, but shall not be limited to, the
following:
A. Violation of any material provision of this FRANCHISE or any other Franchise
between GRANTOR and GRANTEE, or any material rule, order, regulation or
determination of GRANTOR or authorized agent made pursuant to this
FRANCHISE or other agreement;
B. Attempt to evade any material provision of this FRANCHISE or to practice any
fraud or deceit upon GRANTOR or its Subscribers or customers;
C. Material misrepresentation of fact in the application for or negotiation of this
FRANCHISE; or
D. If GRANTEE becomes insolvent, or the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
14.3 Removal.
A. In the event of termination, expiration or revocation of this FRANCHISE,
GRANTOR may order the removal of the above -ground Cable System facilities
and such underground facilities as required by GRANTOR in order to achieve
reasonable engineering or Street -use purposes, from the Franchise Area at
GRANTEE's sole expense. GRANTEE shall have one (1) nine (9) month period
within which to sell, transfer or convey its Cable System to a qualified purchaser,
or to remove its plant, structures and equipment from GRANTOR's Streets and
other public places as directed by GRANTOR. During this period which shall run
from the effective date of the final, non -appealable order or decision of COUNTY
councilor a court of competent jurisdiction imposing termination, GRANTEE
shall have the ability to operate the Cable System pursuant to the provisions of
this FRANCHISE. In removing its plant, structures and equipment, GRANTEE
shall refill, at its own expense, any excavation that is made by it and shall leave
all Streets, public places and private property in as good a condition as that
prevailing prior to GRANTEE's removal of its equipment.
B. If GRANTEE fails to complete any required removal pursuant to Subsection (A)
to the satisfaction of GRANTOR, GRANTOR may cause the work to be done and
GRANTEE shall reimburse GRANTOR for the reasonable costs incurred within
thirty (30) days after receipt of an itemized list of the costs or GRANTOR may
recover the costs through the security provided by GRANTEE.
14.4 Receivership and Foreclosure.
A. At the option of GRANTOR, subject to applicable law, this FRANCHISE may be
revoked one -hundred twenty (120) days after the appointment of a receiver or
trustee to take over and conduct the business of GRANTEE whether in a
receivership, reorganization, bankruptcy or other action or proceeding unless:
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i. The receivership or trusteeship is vacated within one -hundred twenty
(120) days of appointment; or
ii. The receiver(s) or trustee(s) have, within one hundred twenty (120) days
after their election or appointment, fully complied with all the terms and
provisions of this FRANCHISE, and have remedied all violations under
the FRANCHISE. Additionally, the receiver(s) or trustee(s) shall have
executed an agreement duly approved by the court having jurisdiction, by
which the receiver(s) or trustee(s) assume and agree to be bound by each
and every term and provision of this FRANCHISE.
B. If there is a foreclosure or other involuntary sale of the whole or any part of the
plant, property and equipment of GRANTEE, GRANTOR may serve notice of
revocation on GRANTEE and to the purchaser at the sale, and the rights and
privileges of GRANTEE under this FRANCHISE shall be revoked thirty (30)
days after service of such notice, unless:
i. GRANTOR has approved the transfer of the FRANCHISE, in accordance
with the procedures set forth in this FRANCHISE and as provided by law;
and
ii. The purchaser has agreed with GRANTOR to assume and be bound by all
of the terms and conditions of this FRANCHISE.
14.5 No Recourse Against GRANTOR.
Except where otherwise provided herein, GRANTEE shall not have any monetary
recourse against GRANTOR or its officials, boards, commissions, agents or employees
for any loss, costs, expenses or damages arising out of any provision or requirement of
this FRANCHISE or the enforcement thereof, in accordance with the provisions of
applicable federal, state and local law. The rights of GRANTOR under this FRANCHISE
are in addition to, and shall not be read to limit, any immunities GRANTOR may enjoy
under federal or state law.
14.6 Nonenforcement by GRANTOR.
GRANTEE is not relieved of its obligation to comply with any of the provisions of this
FRANCHISE by reason of any failure of GRANTOR to enforce prompt compliance.
GRANTOR's forbearance or failure to enforce any provision of this FRANCHISE shall
not serve as a basis to stop any subsequent enforcement. The failure of GRANTOR on
one or more occasions to exercise a right or to require compliance or performance under
this FRANCHISE or any applicable law shall not be deemed to constitute a waiver of
such right or a waiver of compliance or performance, unless such right has been
specifically waived in writing. Any waiver of a violation is not a waiver of any other
violation; whether similar or different from that waived.
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14.7 Relationship of Remedies.
The remedies provided for in this FRANCHISE are cumulative and not exclusive; the
exercise of one remedy shall not prevent the exercise of another or any rights of
GRANTOR at law or equity.
SECTION 15. ABANDONMENT
15.1 Effect of Abandonment.
If GRANTEE abandons its Cable System serving the Franchise Area during this
FRANCHISE term, GRANTOR, at its option, may operate the Cable System or designate
another entity to operate the Cable System temporarily until GRANTEE restores service
under conditions acceptable to GRANTOR or until the FRANCHISE is revoked and a
new franchisee is selected by GRANTOR.
15.2 What Constitutes Abandonment.
GRANTOR shall be entitled to exercise its options and obtain any required injunctive
relief if:
A. GRANTEE fails to provide any Cable Service to 90% of its Subscribers in
accordance with this FRANCHISE for more than twenty (20) consecutive
business days, unless GRANTOR or designee authorizes a longer interruption of
service which authorization shall not be unreasonably withheld; or
B. For purposes of this FRANCHISE, "abandons" shall mean GRANTEE's
intentional surrender, desertion or relinquishment of its Cable System where
GRANTEE fails to provide any Cable Service to 100% of its Subscribers for a
period of no less than ninety (90) days.
SECTION 16. FRANCHISE RENEWAL AND TRANSFER
16.1 Renewal.
A. GRANTOR and GRANTEE agree that any proceedings undertaken by GRANTOR that
relate to the renewal of GRANTEE's FRANCHISE shall be governed by and comply
with the provisions of Section 626 of the Cable Act, unless the procedures and
substantive protections set forth therein shall be deemed to be preempted and superseded
by the provisions of any subsequent provision of federal law.
B. In addition to the procedures set forth in said Section 626(a) of the Cable Act,
GRANTOR agrees to notify GRANTEE in writing within 90 days of the completion of
its assessments regarding the identification of future cable -related community needs and
interests, as well as the past performance of GRANTEE under the then current
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FRANCHISE term. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein,
GRANTEE and GRANTOR agree that at any time during the term of the then current
FRANCHISE, while affording the public adequate notice and opportunity for comment,
GRANTOR and GRANTEE may agree to undertake and finalize informal negotiations
regarding renewal of the then current FRANCHISE and GRANTOR may grant a renewal
thereof. GRANTEE and GRANTOR consider the terms set forth in this Section to be
consistent with the express provisions of Section 626 of the Cable Act.
16.2 Transfer of Ownership or Control.
A. This FRANCHISE shall not be assigned or transferred, either in whole or in part, either
by involuntary sale or by voluntary sale, without the prior written consent of GRANTOR,
which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed; PROVIDED: GRANTEE
may from time to time transfer and assign this FRANCHISE to its lender(s) for security
purposes.
B. GRANTEE shall promptly notify GRANTOR of any actual or proposed change in, or
transfer of, or acquisition by any other party of control of GRANTEE. The word
"control" as used herein is nor limited to majority stockholders but includes actual
working control in whatever manner exercised. A rebuttable presumption that a transfer
of control has occurred shall arise on the acquisition or accumulation by any Person or
group of Persons often percent (10%) of the shares or the general partnership interest in
GRANTEE, except that this sentence shall not apply in the case of a transfer to any
Person or group already owning at least a ten percent (10%) interest of the shares or the
general partnership interest in GRANTEE. Every change, transfer or acquisition of
control of GRANTEE shall make this FRANCHISE subject to cancellation unless and
until GRANTOR shall have consented thereto.
C. The parties to the sale or transfer shall make a written request to GRANTOR for its
approval of a sale or transfer and furnish all information required by law and
GRANTOR.
D. GRANTOR shall render a final written decision on the request within one -hundred
twenty (120) days of the request, provided it has received all information requested in
accordance with the Cable Act and the FCC regulations promulgated thereunder. Subject
to the foregoing, if GRANTOR fails to render a final decision on the request within one -
hundred twenty (120) days, such request shall be deemed granted unless the requesting
party and GRANTOR agree in writing to an extension of time.
E. Within thirty (30) days of any transfer or sale, if approved or deemed granted by
GRANTOR, GRANTEE shall file with GRANTOR a written notice confirming such sale
or transfer of ownership or control, certified and sworn to as correct by GRANTEE and
the transferee.
F. In reviewing a request for sale or transfer, GRANTOR may inquire into the legal,
technical and financial qualifications of the prospective controlling party or transferee,
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and GRANTEE shall assist GRANTOR in so inquiring. GRANTOR may condition said
sale or transfer upon such terms and conditions as it deems reasonably appropriate,
provided., however, any such terms and conditions so attached shall be directly and
solely related to the legal, technical, and financial qualifications of the prospective
controlling party or transferee and to the resolution of outstanding and unresolved issues
of noncompliance with the terms and conditions of this FRANCHISE by GRANTEE as
permitted by the Cable Act and the FCC's regulations promulgated thereunder.
G. The consent or approval of GRANTOR to any transfer by GRANTEE shall not constitute
a waiver or release of any rights of GRANTOR, and any transfer shall, by its terms, be
expressly subordinate to the terms and conditions of this FRANCHISE.
H. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section, the prior approval of
GRANTOR shall not be required for any sale, assignment or transfer of the FRANCHISE
or Cable System for cable television system usage to an entity controlling, controlled by
or under the same common control as GRANTEE provided that the proposed assignee or
transferee must show financial responsibility as may be determined necessary by
GRANTOR and must agree in writing to comply with all provisions of the FRANCHISE.
SECTION 17. SEVERABILITY
If any Section, subsection, paragraph, term or provision of this FRANCHISE is determined to be
illegal, invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction or by any state or
federal regulatory authority having jurisdiction thereof, such determination shall have no effect
on the validity of any other Section, subsection, paragraph, term or provision of this
FRANCHISE, all of which will remain in full force and effect for the term of the FRANCHISE.
SECTION 18. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
18.1 Preferential or Discriminatory Practices Prohibited.
GRANTEE shall not discriminate in hiring, employment or promotion on the basis of
race, color, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital
status, or physical or mental disability. Throughout the term of this FRANCHISE,
GRANTEE shall fully comply with all equal employment or nondiscrimination
provisions and requirements of federal, state and local law and, in particular, FCC rules
and regulations relating thereto.
18.2 Notices.
Throughout the term of the FRANCHISE, GRANTEE shall maintain and file with
GRANTOR a designated legal or local address for the service of notices by mail. A copy
of all notices from GRANTOR to GRANTEE shall be sent, postage prepaid, to such
address and such notices shall be effective upon three (3) days after the date of mailing.
At the effective date of this FRANCHISE, such addresses shall be:
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Gary S. Jones and Legal Department
Northland Cable Television Inc
1201 Third Avenue Suite 3600
Seattle WA 98101
With a copy to:
System Manager
Northland Cable Television, Inc.
POBox T
Moses Lake WA 98837
All notices to be sent by GRANTEE to GRANTOR under this FRANCHISE shall be
sent, postage prepaid, and such notices shall be effective upon three (3) days after the
date of mailing. At the effective date of this FRANCHISE, such address shall be:
Board of County Commissioners
POBox 37
Ephrata WA 98823-0037
18.3 Binding Effect.
This FRANCHISE shall be binding upon the parties hereto, their permitted successors
and assigns.
18.4 Authority to Amend.
This FRANCHISE may be amended at any time by written agreement between the
parties.
18.5 Governing Law.
This FRANCHISE shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of
Washington.
18.6 Guarantee.
The performance of GRANTEE shall be guaranteed in all respects by GRANTEE until
this FRANCHISE expires, is terminated as provided herein or is assigned.
18.7 Captions.
The captions and headings of this FRANCHISE are for convenience and reference
purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of any
provisions of this FRANCHISE.
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18.8 Construction of FRANCHISE.
The provisions of this FRANCHISE shall be liberally construed to promote the public
interest.
18.9 Entire FRANCHISE.
This FRANCHISE contains all of the agreements of the parties with respect to any matter
covered or mentioned in this FRANCHISE and no prior or contemporaneous agreements
or understandings pertaining to any such matters shall be effective for any purpose. No
provision of this FRANCHISE may be amended or added to except by agreement in
writing signed by both of the parties.
18.10 Force Majeure.
The performance of either party under this FRANCHISE is excused for such period of
time as its performance is rendered impossible by acts of nature, war, terrorist attacks, or
labor disputes.
18.11 Time is of the Essence.
Time is of the essence of this FRANCHISE and each and all of its provisions in which
performance is a factor.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT THE GRANT COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS adopt this ordinance effective June � , 2002.
PASSED this _� day of June, 2002.
ATTEST:
V
Clerk of th d
Published: 06/fL__/02; 06//02
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
GRANT COUNTY, WASHINGTON
'rim
LeRoy C. Allison, ember
Deborah Kay Mo re, Member
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ACCEPTED:
NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC.
By:
Name:
Title:
State of Washington )
)ss.
County of Grant )
I hereby certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that
signed this instrument in their capacity as the
of Northland Cable Television, Inc. and acknowledged it
to be their free and voluntary act for the uses and purposes mentioned in the instrument.
DATED:
Notary Public for
My Commission expires:
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