Cable Advisory Board Special Meeting Minutes

September 25, 2003

A special meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Chairman Margaret Case.  Members present were Christopher Doyle, Mary Griffin, J. Gross, Leo Hart, Alan Shoemaker and David Unger.  Observing was WCAB Alternate Member John Alosso.  Steve Dirksen was absent.   Adelphia General Manager Bob Nelsen was in attendance at the invitation of the WCAB.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss matters discussed by Mr. Nelsen at the Aug 11 Board of Selectmen meeting, including “fee on fee” and franchise fees.

Discussion ensued.  Mr. Nelsen presented documentation that included the legal language permitting Adelphia to pass through the full 5% franchise fee to the customers.  Prior to this, Adelphia had been charging the customer 3% and taking an additional 2% from their general revenues. 

Regarding “fee on fee,” Mr. Nelsen said that it will be eliminated, and as of the November bill, the percentage will be dropped from 5.25% to 5%.

It was resolved that although Adelphia was not in breach, the board would expect Adelphia to be more forthcoming in the future.  Mr. Nelsen agreed that if there are any future rate adjustments, he will notify the WCAB board within 24 hours.

A motion was made for Mr. Doyle to brief the results of this discussion at the next Board of Selectmen meeting that the issues have been resolved, and that the WCAB recommends that the Selectmen rescind their decision to send a letter of breach to Adelphia. Motion was made by Chris Doyle, seconded by Dave Unger, and carried unanimously.

On a separate subject, Adelphia covered their new Value Paks and HDTV, which will be introduced later this fall.

There being no further business, a motion to adjourn was made at 9:05 p.m. Motion seconded and carried.

Respectfully Submitted,

Alan Shoemaker, WCAB Secretary