Adopt Resolution #15-03-060 Conditionally Granting the Consent to the Transfer of Control of the Cable Television Grantee and Cable Television System from Comcast Corporation to GreatLand Connections, Inc.

Purpose:  To grant consent to transfer control of the Cable television Grantee and System from Comcast to GreatLand Connections.

Background:  Comcast, the current cable television franchisee, has requested transfer of ownership to GreatLand Connections, Inc.  The City of Ramsey is a member of the Quad Cities Cable Communications Commission (QCCCC) joint powers organization,and the franchise transfer requires the approval of QCCCC member cities.  Attached is a memo from QCCCC, authored by Karen George, which explains the transfer in detail.  Also attached is Resolution #15-03-060 for Council consideration, conditionally granting the consent to the transfer of control of the Cable Television Grantee and Cable Television System from Comcast to GreatLand Connections.

Karen George, Executive Director for QCTV, will be in attendance at the Council meeting and is prepared to answer any questions Council may have.

Quad Cities Cable Communications Commission has reviewed the legal, technical, and financial qualifications of GreatLand Connections, Inc. and recommends approval of the transfer of ownership.  The franchise is extended through August 31, 2020, and are automatically further extended through December 31, 2024, unless the Grantee timely requests, in writing, renewal proceedings.

Staff is recommending Council adopt the transfer resolution based upon a recommendation by QCCCC.  That recommendation is as follows:  The benefits of an extended franchise, continuation of the current strong PEG funding formula coupled with a modest funding increase, and beneficial PEG channel terms coupled with the protections in the consent resolution present an attractive package of terms.  QCCCC recommends City approval of the transfer of ownership based on the settlement and the conditions imposed by the consent resolution.

Motion to adopt Resolution #15-03-060 Conditionally Granting the Consent to the Transfer of Control of the Cable Television Grantee and Cable Television System from Comcast Corporation to GreatLand Connections, Inc.