Ord 088-95 9/5/1995ORDINANCE NO. 88 -95
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS ADOPTING NEW COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY PRACTICES
FOR TIME WARNER ENTERTAINMENT- ADVANCE /NEWHOUSE
PARTNERSHIP, AND INCLUDING PROVISIONS FOR INSURANCE,
REPORTS AND RECORDS, CONSUMER PRACTICES, CONSUMER
PROTECTION MEASURES, CONSTRUCTION AND CONSTRUCTION -
RELATED PRACTICES, FRANCHISE FEES AND ALTERNATIVE USER
CHARGES, OPERATION PROCEDURES, AND HEALTH, SAFETY AND
WELFARE MEASURES; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; FINDING
AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS
ORDINANCE WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED
BY LAW; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN THE NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Wichita Falls finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the
citizens of Wichita Falls, Texas, requires that a comprehensive ordinance be adopted which
establishes a regulatory framework applicable to the provision of multi - channel service by
Time Warner Entertainment - Advance /Newhouse Partnership (hereinafter referred to as "TW ")
within its territorial jurisdiction.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS:
SECTION 1. There is hereby adopted by the City Council of the City of Wichita Falls
a new comprehensive regulatory practices for Time Warner Entertainment - Advance /Newhouse
Partnership known as the "Time Warner Entertainment - Advance /Newhouse Partnership
Regulatory Franchise for the City of Wichita Falls, Texas," a copy of which is on file with
the City Clerk and the same is hereby adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length
herein.
SECTION 2. That Ordinance No. 3305 is hereby repealed.
SECTION 3. Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or word of this
ordinance be declared unconstitutional or invalid for any purpose, the remainder of this
ordinance shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 4. It is hereby found and determined that the meetings at which this
ordinance was passed were open to the public, as required by Article 6252 -17, V.A.T.C.S.,
and that advance public notice of time, place and purpose of said meetings was given.
SECTION 5. That the City Clerk is directed to publish this ordinance in some
newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wichita Falls in compliance with the
provisions of Section 37 of the City Charter, which publication shall be sufficient if it contains
the title of this ordinance and the penalty provided therein for violation thereof.
SECTION 6. That this ordinance shall take effect from and after its final passage and
publication as required by law. The effective date of this ordinance will be W 6 1 1Cig5'
PASSED AND APPROVED this the day of , 1995.
- � 000-
ATTEST:
City Clerk Po
ORDINANCE NO. 85-95 -
ORDINANCE TO AMEND SEC -'
TION 32 -57 OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES TO ADJUST
SEWER RATES FOR RETAIL
CUSTOMERS
ORDINANCE NO. 86 -95
ORDINANCE MAKING AP-
PROPRIATIONS FOR THE
SUPPORT, MAINTENANCE,
BUILDINGS AND IMPROVE-
MENTS FOR THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS FOR THE 're)
FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING
OCTOBER 1, 1995, ENDING
SEPTEMBER 30, 1996, BOTH
DATES INCLUSIVE, ADOPT-
ING THE BUDGET FIGURES
AND ACCOUNTS AS PART OF
SAID APPROPRIATIONS,
DECLARING AN EMERG-
ENCY.
ORDINANCE NO. 87-95
ORDINANCE LEVYING,
ASSESSING AND FIXING THE
TAX RATE FOR THE USE AND
SUPPORT OF THE MUNICI-
PAL GOVERNMENT OF THE
CITY OF WICHITA FALLS,
TEXAS,AND PROVIDING THE
INTEREST AND SINKING
FUND FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR 1995 -96 AND APPOR-
TIONING EACH LEYY,FOR
THE SPECIFIC 'PURPOSE
AND PROVIDING FOR THE
ASSESSMENT OF,- ANNUAL
OCCUPATION TAXES
PROVIDED BY LAW, AND'
DECLARING AN EMERG -II
ENCY
ORDINANCE NO. 88.95
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY (%-% -1
I COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF I4r
WICHITA FALLS ADOPTING VZ
NEW COMPREHENSIVE °�
1 REGULATORY PRACTICES .9
N FOR TIME WARNER ENTER - `'�
TAINMENT- ADVANCE NEW -
HOUSE PARTNERSHIP, AND `�
I!'vLUDING PROVISIONS
R INSURANCE, REPORTS
.10 RECORDS, CONSUMER
RACTICES, CONSUMER
IROTECTION MEASURES,
CONSTRUCTION AND CON- -
STRUCTION- RELATED PRAC-
TICES, FRANCHISE" FEES
AND ALTERNATIVE USER
CHARGES, OPERATION
PROCEDURES, AND HEALTH,
SAFETY AND WELFARE(
MEASURES; PROVIDING A
SAVINGS CLAUSE; FINDING
AND DETERMINING THAT
THE MEETING AT WHICH
THIS ORDINANCE WAS
PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE
PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY
LAW; PROVIDING FOR A
PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR
j PUBLICATION IN THE NEWS-
( PAPER; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE
ORDINANCE NO. 89.95
ORDINANCE WAIVING AP-
PENDIX A, SUBDIVISION
SECTION 9 (B) (2) (a) OF THE
CODE OF ORDINANCES WITH
RESPECT TO PLACING CURB
AND GUTTER ON THE EAST
SIDE OF TURTLE CREEK
ROAD, ADJACENT TO THE
WEST OF LOTS 44 -48, CANYON
TRAILS, SECTION THREE
ORDINANCE NO. 90-95
iORDINANCE WAIVING SEC-
TION 9(B)(J) OF APPENDIX
A, WICHITA FALLS CODE OF
ORDINANCES (COM-
PREHENSIVE SUBDIVISION
ORDINANCE NO. 2118) FOR
LOT 1, UNIT 33, WICHITA VAL-
LEY FARMS, WICHITA COON -
TY, TEXAS; FINDING AND
DETERMINING THAT THE
MEETING AT WHICH THIS
ORDINANCE WAS PASSED
WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
AS REQUIRED BY LAW
ORDINANCE NO. 91 -95
ORDINANCE WAIVING AP-
PENDIX A, SUBDIVISION
SECTION 9 (B) (2) (a) OF THE
CODE OF ORDINANCES WITH
RESPECT TO PLACING CURB
nun MITTFa nN TNF WEST
.affidavit ®f Publicati ®n
THE STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF WICHITA
On this 18th
Ad #639397
day of September
1995
A.D............. personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority
Mary E. Newell bookkeeper
for the Times Publishing Company of Wichita Falls, publishers of the Wichita Falls
Times /Record News, a newspaper published at Wichita Falls in Wichita County,
Texas, and upon being duly sworn by me, on oath states that the attached
advertisement is a true and correct copy of advertising published
in one ( 1 ) issues thereof on the following dates:
September 9, 1995
Bookkeeper for Times Publishing Company'
of Wichita Falls
Subscribed and sworn to before me this th
ORDINANCE NO.91 -95
ORDINANCE NO. 95-95
ORDINANCE WAIVING AP- J.
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
PENDIX A, SUBDIVISION
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SECTION 9 (B) (2) (a) OF THE
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS,
CODE OF ORDINANCES WITH
CLOSING, VACATING AND
RESPECT TO PLACING CURB
ABANDONING APORTION OF
AND GUTTER ON THE WEST !
A DRAINAGE EASEMENT
SIDE OF F.M. HIGHWAY 1634,
OUT OF BLOCK 1, H -S SUB -
ADJACENT TO THE EAST
DIVISION; FINDING AND DE,
LINE OF AN EASTMENT TO
TERMINING THAT THE
LOT 1, UNIT 33, WICHITA VAL -.
MEETING AT WHICH THIS
LEY FARMS
ORDINANCE WAS DISCUSSED
ORDINANCE NO. 92-95
WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
ORDINANCE WIAVING SEC -
AS REQUIRED BY LAW
TION 27 -29 OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCE NO.96 -95
ORDINANCES WITH RE -'.
ORDINANCE WAIVING
SPECT TO PLACING A SIDE-
DEMOLITION AND MOWING
WALK ON THE SOUTH SIDE
LIENS AND INTEREST
OF BELMONT STREET, ADJA-
ASSESSED AGAINST THE
CENT TO THE NORTH LINE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 805
OF LOT 1, BLOCK 11, UNIVER-
AND 807 OHIO STREET,
SITY PARK SUBDIVISION
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS,
ORDINANCE N0,93 -95 1
FINDING AND DETERMIN-
ORDINANCE MAKING AN AP-
ING THAS THE MEETING AT
PROPRIATION FOR THE RE-
WHICH THIS ORDINANCE
FUND OF MONIES. TO
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO
WICHITA FALLS ASSOCIATES
THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED
IN CARE OF C. ROBERT
BY LAW
KEENEY FOR THE K -MART
ORDINANCE NO. 97-95
PROPERTY ON SOUTHWEST
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
PARKWAY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ORDINANCE NO. 94-95
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS,
ORDINANCE WAIVING SEC -
AMENDING CHAPTER 8,
TION 27 -55(a) OF THE CODE
'BUSINESS AND OCCUPA-
OF ORDINANCES WITH RE-
TIONAL REGULATIONS," AT
SPECT TO THE STREET NAM-
SECTION 8 -28 SO AS TO IN.
ING CONVENTIONS TO
ICLUDE THE MULTI -'
ALLOW THE NAMING OF
(PURPOSE EVENTS CENTER,
"BRIDGE CREEK DRIVE" IN
j COMPLEX AS EXEMPT FROM
BRIDGE CREEK ESTATES,
'THE SAID CHAPTER; I
WICHITA. FALLS, TEXAS,
(PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION
RATHER THAN REQUIRING
IN THE CODE; AND FINDING I
IT TO BE NAMED "MCNIEL
I AND DETERMINING THAT
AVENUE" AS A CONTINU-
THE MEETING AT WHICH
ATION OF THAT STREET;
THIS ORDINANCE WAS DIS-
FINDING AND DETERMIN-
CUSSED WAS OPEN TO THE
ING THAT THE MEETING AT
PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY
WHICH THIS ORDINANCE
LAW
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO
THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED
BY LAW
day and year first above written:
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.)te
COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY FRANCHISE
OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS
FOR TIME WARNER ENTERTAINMENT-
ADVANCE/NEWHOUSE PARTNERSHIP
6
•
o-cc.c &
COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY FRANCHISE
r
OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS
fr
FOR TIME WARNER ENTERTAINMENT-
ADVANCE/NEWHOUSE PARTNERSHIP
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. TITLE 3
SECTION 2. CONSTRUCTION 3
SECTION 3. SCOPE 3
SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY. 3
SECTION 5. DEFINITIONS. 3
SECTION 6. STATEMENT OF INTENT. 12
SECTION 7. ADMINISTRATION; DELEGATION OF POWERS AND
I AUTHORITY. 13
SECTION 8. EXEMPTION FROM THIS FRANCHISE FOR CERTAIN MCS
IPROVIDERS. 14
SECTION 9. SEEKING RELIEF FROM THIS FRANCHISE 14
ISECTION 10. FAILURE OF THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY TO
ENFORCE THIS FRANCHISE. 15
ISECTION 11. TW OR i nrJR ASSIGNEES SUBJECT TO PRESENT AND FUTURE
FRANCHISES. 16
ISECTION 12. REPEAL OF PRIOR INCONSISTENT RESOLUTIONS AND
FRANCHISES. 16
ISECTION 13. RESOLUTION OF INCONSISTENCIES WITH rrAmitAL OR STATE
RULES, REGULATIONS OR LAWS. 16
ISECTION 14. RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS BETWEEN THIS FRANCHISE AND
AN EXISTING FRANCHISE AGREEMENT. 17
1 SECTION 15. CIVIL PENALTIES. 17
I SECTION 16. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S RETAINED RIGHTS
AND AUTHORITIES. 17
ISECTION 17. TW MAY PROMULGATE RULES. 18
SECTION 18. NOTICES. 18
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SECTIONS 19-23. RESERVED. 19
1 SECTION 24. INDEMNITY. 19
ISECTIONS 25-29. RESERVED. 19
SECTION 30. INSURANCE. 19
I SECTION 31. PERFORMANCE AND CONSTRUCTION/COMPLETION BOND 20
SECTION 32. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S POLICY WITH
RESPECT TO REPORTS AND RECORDS 22
ISECTION 33. FURNISHING OF REPORTS. 22
SECTION 34. BOOKS AND RECORDS. 23
I SECTIONS 35-39. RESERVED. 23
SECTION 40. NOTIFICATION OF CUSTOMERS AND MCS PROVIDERS' RIGHTS
IAND RESPONSIBILITIES: GENERAL POLICY. 24
SECTION 41. NOTICE OF CUSTOMER'S AND TW'S RIGHTS AND
IRESPONSIBILITIES WITH RESPECT TO THE PROVISION OF
MULTI-CHANNEL SERVICE; MINIMUM CONTENTS. 24
ISECTION 42. BILLING PRACTICES 26
SECTION 43. BILLING CREDIT FOR SERVICE OUTAGES, INTERRUPTIONS;
f , SUBSTANDARD SIGNAL OR PICTURE QUALITY OR
UNSOLICITED SERVICE. 27
ISECTION 44. PROHIBITION AGAINST NEGATIVE OPTION PROMOTIONAL
PACKAGES. 27
ISECTION 45. SPECIAL RULES CONCERNING SALES SOLICITATIONS. 28
I 1 SECTION 46. SPECIAL RULES FOR MENU-DRIVEN SYSTEMS, SERVICE
CLUSTERS, AND PACKAGING OF SERVICE TIERS. 29
SECTION 47. CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS; CAPABILITIES OF CUSTOMER
I SERVICE OFFICE; AND TELEPHONES 30
SECTION 48. CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS 32
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SECTION 49. RESERVED 32
II
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SECTION 50. PREFERENTIAL OR DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES
PROHIBITED 32
SECTION 51. USE OF EQUIPMENT, RETURN OF EQUIPMENT, SECURITY
DEPOSITS, AND i nrJR RETURN 33
SECTION 52. SERVICE INQUIRY LOGS. 34
SECTIONS 53 - 57. RESERVED. 34
SECTION 58. RESTORATION OF A SUBSCRIBER'S PROPERTY. 35
SECTION 59. SERVICE INQUIRIES, REQUESTS, COMPLAINTS, AND
RESPONSE TIMES 36
SECTION 60. TW REQUIRED TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT REPAIR PARTS AND
SUFFICIENT REPAIR PERSONNEL. 37
SECTION 61. NEW INSTALLATIONS; CONNECTIONS-REGULAR,
PROMOTIONAL, SEASONAL, SHORT-TERM, PAY-PER-VIEW,
AND MENU-DRIVEN; RS CONNECTIONS. 37
SECTION 62. DISCONNECTION FOR NON-PAYMENT. 38
SECTION 63. VOLUNTARY DISCONNECTIONS AND DOWNGRADES. 39
SECTIONS 64 - 68. RESERVED. 40
SECTION 69. PROTECTION OF SUBSCRIBER PRIVACY. 40
' SECTION 70. RESOLUTION OF COMPLAINTS/INQUIRIES. 40
SECTION 71. POLICY WITH RESPECT TO CONTINUITY OF MULTI-CHANNEL
SERVICE PROVISIONS. 41
SECTION 72. CONTINUED USE OF INDIVIDUAL ANTENNAS PROTECTED. ....43
SECTION 73. SYSTEM AND CAPACITY 43
SECTIONS 74-79. RESERVED. 44
SECTION 80. CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE) AND CONSTRUCTION-RELATED
REQUIREMENTS 44
SECTION 81. CONSTRUCTION OF GOOD QUALITY. 45
SECTION 82. CONDITIONS ON USE OF STREETS AND PUBLIC WAYS. 45
SECTION 83. FRANCHISED MCS PROVIDER'S DUTY TO REMOVE
FRANCHISED PROPERTIES FROM THE PUBLIC STREETS 46
SECTION 84. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS. 47
SECTION 85. SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE FOR FRANCHISED MCS
PROVIDERS 48
SECTION 86. SYSTEM EXPANSION FOR TW. 48
SECTION 87. PERMITS AND LICENSES. 51
SECTION 88. SYSTEM FEATURES 51
SECTION 89. STATE OF THE ART. 53
SECTIONS 90 - 94. RESERVED. 53
SECTION 95. COUNCILIFRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S POLICY WITH RESPECT
TO SAFETY REQUIREMENTS 54
SECTION 96. EMERGENCY ALERT. 54
SECTION 97. PROVISIONS TO ALERT SUBSCRIBERS IN THE EVENT OF AN
EMERGENCY; STANDBY POWER. 55
SECTION 98. IMPLEMENTATION OF A PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
PROGRAM. 56
ISECTION 99. CONSTRUCTION, FIRE AND SAFETY CODES. 56
SECTIONS 100-104. RESERVED. 56
ISECTION 105. ALTERNATIVE USER CHARGE. 56
ISECTION 106. FRANCHISE REQUIRED; EXCEPTION. 58
SECTION 107. AUTHORITY AND GRANT OF NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISES. ..58
ISECTION 108. L� 1 L6 L 1 1 OF GRANT OF FRANCHISE 59
ISECTION 109. TERM OF FRANCHISE. 59
SECTION 110. APPLICATION FOR FRANCHISE; APPLICATION FEE 61
ISECTION 111. FRANCHISE FEES 61
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SECTION 112. ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER OF FRANCHISE. 64
SECTION 113. DEFAULT OF FRANCHISE; REVOCATION, TERMINATION OR
CANCELLATION OF FRANCHISE. 65
SECTION 114. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS 67
SECTIONS 115-119. RESERVED. 67
SECTION 120. SPECIFIC ADDITIONAL RULES FOR MCS PROVIDERS
CLASSIFIED AS CABLE OPERATORS 67
SECTION 121. SPECIFIC ADDITIONAL PUBLIC, EDUCATIONAL, AND
GOVERNMENTAL RULES. 68
h.
SECTION 122. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S OBJECTIVE AS IT
I RELATES TO THE PROVISION OF BROAD CATEGORIES OF
VIDEO PROGRAMMING AND SYSTEM SERVICES AFTER THE
REBUILD 69
ISECTION 123. INSTITUTIONAL NETWORK. 70
ISECTIONS 124-128. RESERVED. 71
SECTION 129. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS - TAMPERING AND
IUNAUTHORIZED RECEPTION OF CERTAIN SERVICES. 71
SECTION 130. EFFECTIVE DATE. 72
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ORDINANCE NO.
' AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS ADOPTING NEW COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY PRACTICES
FOR TIME WARNER ENTERTAINMENT-ADVANCE/NEWHOUSE
PARTNERSHIP, AND INCLUDING PROVISIONS FOR INSURANCE,
REPORTS AND RECORDS, CONSUMER PRACTICES, CONSUMER
PROTECTION MEASURES, CONSTRUCTION AND CONSTRUCTION-
RELATED PRACTICES, FRANCHISE FEES AND ALTERNATIVE USER
CHARGES, OPERATION PROCEDURES, AND HEALTH, SAFETY AND
WELFARE MEASURES; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; FINDING
AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS
ORDINANCE WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED
' BY LAW; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN THE NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
'
WHEREAS, the City of Wichita Falls finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the
citizens of Wichita Falls, Texas, requires that a comprehensive ordinance be adopted which
establishes a regulatory framework applicable to the provision of multi-channel service by
Time Warner Entertainment-Advance/Newhouse Partnership (hereinafter referred to as "TW")
within its territorial jurisdiction.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
' CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS:
SECTION 1. There is hereby adopted by the City Council of the City of Wichita Falls
111 a new comprehensive regulatory practices for Time Warner Entertainment-Advance/Newhouse
Partnership known as the "Time Warner Entertainment-Advance/Newhouse Partnership
Regulatory Franchise for the City of Wichita Falls, Texas," a copy of which is on file with
the City Clerk and the same is hereby adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length
herein.
SECTION 2. That Ordinance No. 3305 is hereby repealed.
SECTION 3. Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or word of this
ordinance be declared unconstitutional or invalid for any purpose, the remainder of this
ordinance shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 4. It is hereby found and determined that the meetings at which this
ordinance was passed were open to the public, as required by Article 6252-17, V.A.T.C.S.,
and that advance public notice of time, place and purpose of said meetings was given.
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SECTION 5. That the City Clerk is directed to publish this ordinance in some
newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wichita Falls in compliance with the
provisions of Section 37 of the City Charter, which publication shall be sufficient if it contains
the title of this ordinance and the penalty provided therein for violation thereof.
tSECTION 6. That this ordinance shall take effect from and after its final passage and
publication as required by law. The effective date of this ordinance will be O c-.1v he►— 19 9 S
PASSED AND APPROVED this the `.'> day of.t -Pi J)i A, 95.
MA Y OR
ATTEST:
1
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City Clerk
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COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY FRANCHISE
FOR THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS. TEXAS
WITH TIME WARNER ENTERTAINMENr-
ADVANCE/NEWHOUSE PARTNERSHIP
SECTION 1. TITLE.
This Franchise may be known and cited as the Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse Partnership Regulatory Franchise for the City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
SECTION 2. CONSTRUCTION.
This Franchise shall be construed in light of applicable Federal and State laws and
regulations governing multi-channel service practices which specifically include cable
television.
' SECTION 3. SCOPE.
This Franchise shall be effective within the geographical limits of the City, including
any areas subsequently annexed by the City.
SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY.
If any word, phrase, sentence, part, section, subsection, or other portion of this
Franchise, or any application thereof to any person or circumstance is declared void,
unconstitutional, or invalid for any reason, such word, phrase, sentence, part, section,
subsection, or other portion, or the proscribed application thereof, shall be severable, and the
remaining provisions of this Franchise, and all applications thereof, not having been declared
void, unconstitutional, or invalid, shall remain in full force and effect. The
Council/franchising authority declares that no invalid or proscribed provision or application
was an inducement to this Franchise, and that it would have enacted this Franchise regardless
of the invalid or proscribed provision or application.
SECTION S. DEFINITIONS.
"A/B switch" or "Input selector switch" means any device that enables a viewer to
select between any video source (including any type of multi-channel service) or any ancillary
equipment. Such a device may be more sophisticated than a mere two-sided switch, may
' utilize other multi-channel system interface equipment, and may be built into television
receivers.
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"Access channel" means a government, education, or public channel which is carried
on the multi-channel system, but which is not part of any institutional network.
"Activated channel" has the same meaning as defined by Federal or State law if such
a definition is permitted.
"Abandoned calls" mean telephone calls that are connected to an MCS provider's
general information number, but the caller hangs up without being attended by a
representative of the MCS provider, or by a device capable of receiving a message.
"Alternative user charge" means a charge used in place of a franchise fee that the
Council requires as payment for the privilege of using the streets, easements, public ways, or
rights-of-way of the City in order to construct, maintain, and operate the multi-channel
system. An alternative user fee is not based on an MCS provider's gross annual revenues (as
is the case in a franchise fee), but rather is based on the value of the City property that an
MCS provider is using to construct, maintain, and operate its multi-channel system.
"Annual gross revenues" means any and all compensation which is derived from the
operation of the MCS system, and which is attributable to the subscribers or customers within
' the City. Further, "annual gross revenues" means any, and all, compensation, in whatever
form (except as exempted by this definition), exchange or otherwise derived from all multi-
channel services, MCS operations, and MCS-related activities within the City, including but
not limited to: revenues from subscriber rates; bulk billing rates; pay-per-view events or
channels; premium channels; service tiers; service clusters; institutional networks; advertising;
installations; rebates or commissions received from travel or home shopping services;
infomercial channels; or commercial access. Also, unless prohibited or pre-empted by either
Federal or State law, "annual gross revenues" shall mean any and all compensation from all
ancillary multi-channel services, MCS operations, and MCS-related activities within the City,
including, but not limited to: sale of MCS or MCS equipment revenues from advertising
stuffers inserted into periodic billing statements or other notices; revenues from 900 numbers
or revenues from other interactive cable or informational services; revenues from personal
communications networks (PCNs); rental of descrambling converters; or other devices; rental
of remote control devices (including those with volume control); rental or sale of a/b or input
switches; pay-per-view of interactive games or computer programs; rental of digital radio
equipment to receive programming off the cable system; sale of satellite antenna-received
programming for a programmer or distributor of services; or from revenues received as the
tbilling agent, collector, or retailer of satellite antenna-received service. However, "annual
gross revenues" does not mean any taxes imposed and/or assessed by law on subscribers
(including State sales taxes) which an MCS provider is obligated to collect and pay in full to
' the applicable authorities.
"Applicant" means a person submitting an application or proposal to the City for a
license or franchise to operate the multi-channel system under the terms and conditions set
forth in this Franchise, and any State regulations.
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Application" or "Proposal" are synonymous for the purposes of this Franchise. An
"application" or "proposal" means the process by which the applicant submits a request and
indicates a desire to be granted a license or franchise for all, or a part, of the City. In the
event of the award of a franchise, applications and proposals shall be included as appendices
to this Franchise.
"Assignment of franchise" or "Transfer of a franchise" means any transaction or
action which effectively or actually changes operations or managerial control from one person
or entity to another.
"Auxiliary equipment" means equipment supplied by the MCS provider (such as a
converter, remote control unit, or input selector switch), which enhances or assists in the
reception or provision of multi-channel service.
"Basic cable television service" shall have the meaning provided in the Cable
Communications Policy Act of 1984, as amended.
"Cable Act" or "CCPA" means the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984, as
amended.
"Cable channel" or "Cable television channel" means a portion of the
electromagnetic or light frequency spectrum which is capable of delivering a television
channel (as "television channel" is defined by the FCC regulation).
"Cable operator" or "operator" means any person or group of persons who:
(a) provides cable television service over a cable system, and directly or through one
(1) or more affiliates owns a significant interest in such cable system; or
(b) otherwise controls or is responsible for, through any arrangement, the management
and operation of such a cable system.
"Cable service" means:
(a) the one-way transmission to subscribers of video programming, or other
programming service; and
(b) subscriber interaction, if any, which is required for the selection of such video
programming service.
"Cable system" or "Cable television 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, and which is provided to multiple subscribers within
the City. However, such terms do not include the following:
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(a) a facility that serves only to re-transmit the television signals of one (1) or more
broadcast stations; or,
(b) a facility that services only subscribers in one (1) or more multiple unit dwellings
under common ownership, control, or management unless such facility or facilities
uses any public rights-of-way; or,
(c) a facility or a common carrier which is subject, in whole or in part, to the
provisions of Title II of the Communications Act of 1934, except that such facility
shall be considered a cable system (other than for purposes of Section 621(c) of the
CCPA -- codified at 47 USC 541) to the extent such facility is used in the
transmission of video programming or service directly to subscribers; or,
' (d) any facilities of any electric utility used solely for operating its electric utility.
"Charge" means a one-time or non-regularly occurring cost paid by the subscriber,
and which is associated with the installation, maintenance, service, or repair of the multi-
channel service. Specifically, a "charge" includes, but is not limited to: disconnection fees;
downgrade charges; costs for closed-captioned devices and equipment, remote control devices
' and equipment for hearing-impaired customers; installation charges for video camera recorders
and players; installation charges for digital radio; and trip or service call charges.
"City" means the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, or its lawful successor.
"Collection charge" means a charge or fee imposed on a customer by TW for such
provider's efforts at collecting, or attempting to collect, a past due account.
"Commercially impracticable" means excuse by failure of presupposed conditions as
specified in Section 2-615 of the Uniform Commercial Code.
"Converter" means any electric, electronic, or other device, separate and apart from
r the subscriber's receiver that is capable of converting or changing signals to a frequency not
intended to be susceptible to interference within the television, video, or data receiver of a
subscriber, and by an g.. ... ....ate channel or other type of selector may also permit a
subscriber to view or otherwise use signals delivered at designated dial locations, or such
other and use allocations as may be applicable and required for the practical use of
the signal.
"Council" or "Council/franchising authority" means the City Council of the City of
1 Wichita Falls, Texas, or its lawful successor, which is the lawful legislative body for the City.
"Customer" means a subscriber, or user of the services and/or facilities of the multi-
channel system provided by an MCS provider.
1
6
"Data Channel" or "Information Channel" means the use of the electromagnetic or
light spectrum for the purpose of transporting data or non-video programming.
"Decoder" or "Descrambler" means a device which enables a subscriber to convert a
1 scrambled signal into a viewable or otherwise useable signal.
"Disaster emergency" or "Disaster" or "Emergency" means an imminent,
impending, or actual natural or humanly induced situation wherein the health, safety, or
welfare of the residents of the City are threatened. A "disaster emergency" (by illustration)
may include a sudden or unexpected insect infestation (such as with locusts or bees),
tsnowstorm, flood, hail storm, tornado, severe thunderstorm, hazardous waste infiltration, fire,
petroleum, munitions, or nuclear explosion, or aircraft crash.
' "Drop" means a small branch of cable, or other transmitting medium which connects
the terminals on the back of the subscriber's receiver to the feeder cable or future technical
1 equivalent on the street, easement, rights-of-way, or public way.
"Easement" means and shall include any public easement or other compatible use
' created by dedication, or by other means, to the City for public utility purposes or any other
purpose whatsoever, including cable television, or any multi-channel service. "Fa cement"
shall include a private easement used for the provision of cable service or any other multi-
!" channel service.
"FCC" or "Federal Communications Commission" means the Federal administrative
agency, or lawful successor, authorized to oversee cable television and other multi-channel
regulation on a national level.
"Fiber cable" or "Fiber optic cable" means pliable cylinders, or strands of glass or
plastic, or any future developed technical equivalent, used to carry wide bands of multiple
frequencies.
"Franchise" means this document authorizing Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse Partnership (TW) to construct and operate a franchised multi-channel
system, within the City.
1 "Franchise expiration" means the date of expiration, or the end of the term of the
franchise, as provided under this Franchise Agreement.
"Franchise fee" means a fee or charge that the City requires as payment for the
privilege of using the streets, rights-of-way, public ways, and easements of the City in order
to construct, maintain, and operate a franchised MCS system.
"Franchising authority" or "Council/franchising authority" means the City Council
of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas. This definition specifically includes the situation wherein
I
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the Council in its franchising authority capacity grants a franchise, or renews a franchise, or
approves a franchise transfer by TW.
"Headend" means the electronic control center, where incoming signals, including
those of television broadcast stations, are amplified, modulated, filtered, converted, or in any
way processed or converted for redistribution to subscribers.
"Hub" means the satellite or remote receiving, processing and/or transmitting facility,
enabling the signal to be extended beyond the physical/electronic capabilities of the multi-
channel electronics and/or to serve as a remote switching facility.
"Late charge" means a charge which is added to a subscriber's account or bill for non-
payment of a previously due and delinquent account.
"Mayor" means the Mayor for the City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
"MCS" means multi-channel service.
"MCS provider" or "Multi-channel service provider" means any person or group of
persons who:
(a) provides multi-channel communications service over the multi-channel system and
directly or indirectly owns a significant interest in such multi-channel system; or,
b) who otherwise controls or is responsible through any arrangement, for the
management and operation of the multi-channel system.
The term "MCS provider" or "multi-channel service provider" specifically includes the terms
"cable operator," "MMDS provider" or "multi-point distribution system provider," "MMDA
provider." "personal communications network system provider" (where applicable), and
"SMATV .., ;..�..��."
"MDS" means multi-point distribution system.
"MDS provider" or "Multi-point distribution system provider" means any person
or group of r, authorized by the FCC, within frequency boundaries established by the
FCC, to transmit specialized multi-channel programming or data or facsimile transmission to
subscriber-selected locations.
"Menu-driven" or "menu-driven cable" or "menu-driven program/service" means
the process whereby the MCS provider offers multi-channel services via the multi-channel
system in a format that allows the subscriber to select and be charged for multi-channel
services on either a per-channel, per-program, or per-event basis.. Menu-driven cable allows
8
the subscriber to create his or her own service tier(s) or cluster(s), and the opportunity to
change the composition of his or her tier(s) or cluster(s) on a periodic basis.
"Multi-channel programming service" or "Multi-channel service" means:
(a) the one-way transmission to subscribers of video programming, or other
programming service; and,
(b) subscriber interaction, if any, which is required for the selection of such video
programming or other programming service.
"Multi-channel system" means:
(a) facility consisting of a set of closed transmission paths and associated signal
generation, reception, and control equipment; or,
(b) facility consisting of Infrared transmission or point-to-point transmission (as
permitted by law); or,
(c) any functional equivalent -- that is designed to provide multi-channel service which
h, includes video voice or data programming and which is provided to multiple
subscribers within the City.
However, such term does not include the following:
(a) a facility that services only to re-transmit the television signals of one (1) or more
broadcast stations; or,
' (b) a facility that serves only subscribers and one (1) or more multi-unit dwellings
under common ownership, control, or management unless such facility or facilities
U
uses any public rights-of-way; or,
(c) a facility or common carrier which is subject, in whole or in part, to the provision
to Title II of the Communication Act of 1934, except that such facility shall be
considered a multi-channel system (other than for purposes of Section 621(c) of the
CCPA — codified at 47 USC 541) to the extent such facility is used in the
transmission of video, voice, or data programming or service directly to
subscriber; or,
' (d) any facilities of any electric utility used solely for operating its electric utility.
"Programming service" means information that TW makes available to all subscribers
' generally.
1 9
"Pay-per-view" or "Premium channel" means the delivery on the multi-channel
system of audio and/or video signals to subscribers for a fee or charge on a per-program or
per-channel basis.
"Person" means any individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership,
association of two (2) or more persons having a joint common interest, governmental agency,
or other legal entity, including the City.
"Private communications network," or "PCN," or "Private communications
system" means any ancillary or aligned component of TW's MCS system consisting of
communications lines, cables, equipment or facilities which are used to provide
telecommunications service that in any manner uses or occupies the streets, easement, public
ways, or rights-of-way within the City (as annexed). However, "private communications
network" does not include any part of a State or FCC licensed local government local
exchange telephone company, or any part of a Federal, State, County, or local government
owned telecommunications system.
"Proposed abandonment of multi-channel service" or "Proposed withdrawal of
multi-channel service" or "Proposed cessation of multi-channel service" means the
anticipated, contemplated, imminent, or (either voluntary or involuntary) disruption,
discontinuance, desertion, or removal of TW's operation and provision of multi-channel
service from all, or part, of the City.
"Public, educational or governmental access facilities" means:
(a) Channel capacity designated exclusively for non-commercial public, educational or
governmental use; and,
Facilities and equipment for the use of such channel capacity.
"Rate" means the periodic price paid for the receipt of any multi-channel service
provided by TW.
"Revocation", "Termination", or "Non-renewal" means an official act by the City
whereby the Council/franchising authority removes, repeals, or rescinds previously approved
TW franchise to conduct the running of the multi-channel system within the City.
"Service cluster" means the grouping, aligning, or packaging of one (1) or more
multi-channel programming services by category (such as sports and/or news), or by rate, or
by some other identifiable method, and charging a separate price or rate for each service
cluster.
"Service outage" for purposes of credit means the loss of picture or sound on all basic
subscriber channels, or one (1) or more auxiliary programming channels (including tiers and
10
clusters). For purposes of response to a service call, a "service outage" means a loss of a
picture or sound or other informational service provided by TW. Both of these situations
assume the outage is not caused by the failure or malfunction of a subscriber's television
receiver or by the error, misfeasance or malfeasance of the subscriber.
"Service tier" means a category of multi-channel service or other programming service
provided by TW, and for which a separate rate is charged by TW.
"SMATV" means Satellite Master Antenna Television.
"SMATV operator" or "Satellite Master Antenna Television operator" means any
person or group of persons who:
(a) provides multi-channel service over an SMATV system; or,
(b) otherwise controls or is responsible for, through any arrangement, the management
of an SMATV system.
"SMATV system" means a private multi-channel system not crossing any public
rights-of-way and which is located on private and serving private dwellings.
"State"" means the State of Texas.
"Street" or "Public Way" means the surface of, and the space above and below a
public street, road, highway, freeway, land, path, public way or place, alley, court,
boulevard, parkway, drive, or other easement now or hereafter held by the City (including
any street, as defined, which is acquired by eminent domain) for the purpose of public travel,
and shall include other easements or rights-of-way now or hereafter held by the City
(including any easements or rights-of-way acquired by eminent domain) which shall, with
their proper use and meaning, entitle the City and TW to use thereof for the purpose of
installing or transmitting multi-channel system transmissions over pole, wire, cable,
conductors, ducts, conduits, viaducts, manholes, amplifiers, appliances, attachments, and
other r- r as may ordinarily be necessary and pertinent to the multi-channel system.
"Subscriber" means a person lawfully receiving multi-channel service delivered by
TW.
"USC" means United States Code.
"User" means a personor organization utilizing the multi-channel system and/or its
equipment for purposes of production and/or transmission of material, as contrasted with
receipt thereof in a subscriber capacity.
"Video programming" means programming provided by, or generally considered
comparable to programming provided by, a television broadcast station.
11
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■ SECTION 6. STATEMENT OF INTENT.
A. The Council recognizes the United States Congress' intent in approving the
r CCPA (expressed in Section 601 -- codified at 47 USC 521). As such, the Council reaffirms
and adopts those principles and ideals as part of the City's intent with respect to cable
television and expands its intent (where applicable) to cover TW.
B. As expressed by Congress, and adopted by the Council, its intent is as follows:
(1) establish a local policy concerning communications and technologies;
(2) establish franchise procedures and standards which encourage the growth and
development of cable systems which assure that cable systems are responsive to the
needs and interests of the City;
(3) establish guidelines for the exercise of local authority with respect to the regulation
of cable systems;
r
(4) assure that cable communications provide, and are encouraged to provide, the
widest diversity of information and services to the public;
S
(5) establish an orderly process for franchise renewal which protects cable operators
' against unfair denials of renewal where an operator's past performance and
proposal for future performance meet the standards set by the CCPA, and this
Franchise; and,
' (6) promote competition in cable communications and minimize unnecessary regulation
that would impose an undue economic burden on cable systems.
' C. In addition to principles and ideals listed in Subsection the Council also
P P �)
' expresses that its intent covers the following:
(1) to create a set of regulations, standards, and procedures for TW and other MCS
' providers;
(2) to create a comprehensive customer service and consumer protection policy for TW
' and other MCS providers;
(3) to provide for access and inspection of TW and other MCS provider's books and
' records in order to monitor compliance of local, State and Federal laws, and any
franchise agreement (if one has been granted);
' (4) to create a thorough construction and installation policy for TW and other MCS
provider's system;
' 12
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(5) to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City in light of
TW and other MCS provider's construction, operation, and maintenance;
' (6) to provide for emergency override capability, so that citizens of the City may be
warned of a potential, imminent, actual disaster or emergency situation that exists
in the area;
(7) to provide for the introduction and installation of safety alert technology in order to
notify subscribers of imminent disaster emergencies;
' (8) to create a thorough procedure for collecting and monitoring franchise fees and
g
alternative user charges;
viable alternative to franchise fees in case such fees, or their collection,
to create a
tare ruled invalid, unenforceable, or unconstitutional;
(10) to create a thorough default and revocation procedure for franchised;
(11) to provide for continuity of services in the event of City acquisition,
abandonment, withdrawal, cessation of service, revocation, termination, non-
renewal, or expiration of this Franchise;
(12) to create a performance review procedure in order to assist the City in its periodic
' evaluation of TW or other franchised MCS provider's performance; and,
(13) to create procedures for. the evaluation and grant of TW or other MCS provider
111 applications for authorization; the identification of multi-channel service related to
community needs; and the establishment and enforcement of rules and regulations
of TW or other MCS providers consistent with the identified needs of the
' community.
D. Further, the Council recognizes that with respect to cable operators, the
' Council's power to adopt regulations is, in part, authorized under the Cable Act, as well as
the Council's police powers, due to the potential for physical scarcity and public disruption
when cable either occupies or uses the public rights-of-way.
SECTION 7. ADMINISTRATION; DELEGATION OF POWERS AND AUTHORITY.
A. The Council/franchising authority is hereby designated the officer of the City
which is responsible for the continuing administration of this Franchise.
' B. Unless prohibited by Federal or State law, the Council/franchising authority
may delegate its powers and authorities with respect to administering this Franchise, to a duly
' 13
authorized representative of the City, including the Mayor, the City Manager, and/or the City
Cable Advisory Committee.
C. However, the Council/franchising authority may never delegate its franchising
or revocation power to another person.
SECTION 8. EXEMPTION FROM THIS FRANCHISE FOR CERTAIN MCS
PROVIDERS.
A. Recognizing the inherent technological differences between various types of
' MCS providers, and taking into account a number of financial, operational, and maintenance
considerations, the Council/franchising authority exempts TW from complying with certain
provisions contained in this Franchise under specific conditions.
' B. TW is exempted from complying with the provisions of this Franchise if:
' (1) TW is exempted from this Franchise as a result of an applicable FCC
ruling; or,
(2) TW is exempted from this Franchise as a result of an applicable judicial
ruling.
C. It is expressly understood that TW will remain exempted only as long as it
' meets one (1) or more of the specifications of this particular section.
D. It also is expressly noted that the extent of the exemption for TW is only for
this Franchise. Consequently, if TW is exempted, the Company is expected to abide by, and
comply with, any other applicable City, State, or Federal laws and regulations, including any
' applicable Federal, State, or City consumer protection or customer service laws and
regulations, as allowed by law. The City's Multi-Channel Service Provider's Ordinance
(#119-92) shall govern to the extent that it is not inconsistent with the express terms of this
' Franchise.
SECTION 9. SEEKING RELIEF FROM THIS FRANCHISE.
A. TW may file a written petition, at any time, with the Council/franchising
authority seeking relief from one (1) or more provisions of this Franchise. The relief
' requested may specifically include the delay in implementation of one (1) or more provisions
of this Franchise.
' B. In order to receive any relief from one (1) or more of the provisions of this
Franchise, TW must satisfactorily demonstrate to the Council/franchising authority that at
least one (1) of the following facts exists:
' (1) the provision and/or requirement is expressly prohibited by Federal law,
the FCC, or State law; or,
' 14
(2) that the imposition of such provisions and/or requirements will create
such an undue economic hardship on TW so as to imperil or eliminate
TW's ability to provide multi-channel service to a majority of current
subscribers; or,
(3) that one (1) or more time frames listed in this Franchise are either
impossible to meet, or impractical to meet in light of TW's operational
policy; or,
' (4) that TW has its own construction, maintenance, operation, or customer
service policy, which the Council/franchising authority deems
comparable to, or exceeding, any provision and/or requirement from
which TW seeks relief.
C. The Council/franchising authority shall have the responsibility of determining
whether TW's construction, maintenance, operation, or customer service policy is comparable
to, or exceeds, a similar provision in this Franchise. Note well, however, that the
Council/franchising authority may delegate investigative and reporting functions to an
authorized representative of the City.
' D. As an alternative to seeking an exemption, or requesting relief, TW may submit
a written request or petition for clarification on the precise intent and effect that one (1) or
more provisions or sections of this Franchise has on TW.
' E. In accordance with this Franchise, the Council/franchising authority may
charge TW with the actual costs for processing such a petition, including any costs incurred
by outside consultants who are retained by the City to review TW's petition.
F. In those instances where the Council/franchising authority grants an exemption
' or relief to TW, or deems TW's operational policy to be comparable to a Franchise provision,
then this Franchise Agreement (initial, existing, or renewal) shall be amended within thirty
(30) days to reflect the exact extent of such exemption and/or relief. It should be specifically
' noted that the benefit of such exemption, relief, clarification, or comparable policy extends
only to TW when granted such exemption, relief, clarification, or comparable policy.
SECTION 10. FAILURE OF THE COUNCIIJFRANCHISING AUTHORITY TO
ENFORCE THIS FRANCHISE.
TW shall not be excused from complying with any of the requirements of this Franchise, or
any subsequently adopted amendments to this Franchise, by any failure of the
Council/franchising authority on any one (1) or more occasions to seek, or insist upon,
' compliance with such requirements or provisions.
' 15
' SECTION 11. TW OR inr.IR ASSIGNEES SUBJECT TO PRESENT AND FUTURE
FRANCHISES.
A. TW, its assignee, or transferee shall be subject to, and expected to comply
with, this Franchise in effect within the City, to the extent that TW has not received an
exemption or relief from said franchise.
B. TW, its assignee, or transferee shall be subject to, and expected to comply
with, all Federal and State laws, and with all rules issued by all applicable regulatory agencies
now or hereafter in existence.
C. TW, its assignee, or transferee shall be subject to all lawful exercise of the
City's police power.
D. With respect to future franchises noted in this section, nothing contained herein
prevents TW from exercising any, and all, of its administrative and legal rights as to
challenging the constitutionality, applicability, and enforceability of said future ordinances.
SECTION 12. REPEAL OF PRIOR INCONSISTENT RESOLUTIONS AND
FRANCHISES.
Subject to Section 8.B. of this Franchise, to the extent that there is any prior resolution
or ordinance which in part or in whole is directly inconsistent with this Franchise, such part,
or such whole, of the prior resolution or ordinance shall be repealed to the extent of the
' inconsistency.
SECTION 13. RESOLUTION OF INCONSISTENCIES WITH r wr itAL OR STATE
RULES, REGULATIONS OR LAWS.
A. In any case of an actual inconsistency between any provision or section of this
' Franchise, and any provision or section of a Federal or State rule, regulation, or law, then the
Federal or State rule, regulation or law shall not only supersede the effect of the ordinance,
but also control in any local application.
B. The above subsection specifically includes any situation wherein an applicable
' Federal or State judicial decision creates an actual inconsistency with any provision or section
of this Franchise. In such a situation, the Federal or State judicial decision shall not only
supersede the effect of the ordinance, but also control in any local application.
16
SECTION 14. RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS BETWEEN THIS FRANCHISE AND
AN EXISTING FRANCHISE AGREEMENT.
A. Where there is a conflict (actual or apparent) between the Ordinance and this
Franchise, this Franchise Agreement shall control, and prevail, unless administratively or
w judicially determined invalid, unenforceable, or unconstitutional.
SECTION 15. CIVIL PENALTIES.
A. Civil penalties may be imposed for the violation of any provision of this
' Franchise, as follows:
(1) an amount to the violation and the resulting injury up to
' Ten Thousand ($10,000.00) Dollars for each violation, and each day of
a continuing violation may be considered a new violation; and/or,
(2) if applicable, default and revocation of a franchise granted pursuant to
this Franchise, and further subject to any limitations imposed by Federal
or State law; and/or,
(3) prior to the imposition of any civil penalty, TW shall be given ten (10)
days written notice of the violation and be given an opportunity to
address the Council/franchising authority for the purpose of presenting
its position relative to the violation.
' B. Monetary civil penalties may be imposed in the manner prescribed by either
local or State law.
SECTION 16. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S RETAINED RIGHTS
' AND AUTHORITIES.
A. Subject to pre-emption by or other approval authority of the FCC or any other
Federal or State governmental entity or agency, and to the extent permitted by any applicable
law. the Council/franchising authority retains the authority to provide for:
(1) the regulation and control of any multi-channel system within the
geographical limits of City;
' (2) the award and grant of a franchise (where required) subsequent to
review of an application or r . r . 1.1 by the Council/franchising
authority;
1 (3) the periodic review and/or amendment or repeal of all, or part, of this
Franchise; and
' (4) if mutually agreed to with a franchise, the periodic review and/or
amendment of any existing franchise agreement.
B. The Council/franchising authority, to :he extent permitted by Section 623 of the
CCPA (codified at 47 USC 543) retains the power to regulate rates or charges associated with
the providing of multi-channel service classified as cable service by TW classified as a cable
operator.
C. Subject to pre-emption by or other approval authority of the FCC or any other
Federal or State governmental entity or agency, the Council/franchising authority retains the
jurisdiction to enforce all laws and regulations relating to multi-channel customer service
practices and consumer protection.
D. If the FCC, Congress or other governmental agency with authority over cable
or any other MCS provider ever abrogates, deletes, removes or otherwise disposes of rules or
standards that are referenced in this Franchise, or relief upon by the Council/franchising
authority for purposes of MCS provider compliance with this Franchise, then the
Council/franchising authority may, to the extent not pre-empted by or inconsistent with, later
adopted law or regulations, re-instate such rules or standards. In such case, the re-instated
rules will have the same weight (as allowed under prevailing law) as they had prior to their
tinitial deletion.
SECTION 17. TW MAY PROMULGATE RULES.
' To the extent that they are not inconsistent with the requirements and responsibilities
detailed in this Franchise, TW is authorized to promulgate such rules and internal practices as
' shall be necessary to enable it to exercise its rights and perform its duties under this Franchise,
and the rules of any federal or state agency charged with the responsibility of regulating TW.
' SECTION 18. NOTICES.
A. Both the Council/franchising authority and TW shall provide the other party
with the name and address of the contact person designated to receive notices, filings, reports,
records, documents, and other .,dence. All notices shall be delivered to each parry's
contact person by certified mail, return receipt requested, personal service with a signed
' receipt of delivery, or overnight with receipt verification. All other filings, reports, records,
documents, and other Aence may be delivered by any permissible means, including,
but not limited to: facsimile transmission ("faxing"); personal service; overnight mail or
' package delivery; or delivery via cable. The delivery of all notices, reports, records, and other
correspondence shall be deemed to have occurred at the time of receipt (unless otherwise
designated by State law).
' B. All notices from TW to the City pursuant to this Agreement shall be sent to any
address to be designated by the City. TW shall maintain within the City, through the term of
' this Franchise, a local office and telephone number for the conduct of matters related to this
Franchise. All notices to TW shall be sent to that address.
' 18
SECTIONS 19-23. RESERVED.
SECTION 24. INDEMNITY.
A. To the extent permitted by law, TW shall at all times defend, indemnify,
protect, save harmless, and exempt the City, the Mayor, the City Manager, the
Council/franchising authority, their officers, agents, servants, and employees from any and all
penalty, damage, or charges arising out of claims, suits, demands, causes of action, or award
of damages, whether compensatory or punitive, or expenses arising therefrom, either at law or
in equity, which might be claimed now in the future, which may arise out of, or be caused by
workers' compensation, or by the construction, erection, location, products performance,
operation, maintenance, repair, installation, replacement, removal or restoration of the multi-
channel system within the City by a negligent act or omission of TW, its agents or
employees, contractors, subcontractors, independent contractors, or implied or authorized
representatives. With respect to the penalties, damages or charges referenced herein,
reasonable attorney's fees, consultants' fees, and expert witness fees are included as those
costs which may be recovered by the Council/franchising authority. Notices shall be
delivered to each parry's contact person by certified mail, return receipt requested, personal
service with a signed receipt of delivery, or overnight with receipt verification. All other
filings, reports, records, documents, and other correspondence may be delivered by any
permissible means, including, but not limited to: facsimile transmission ("faxing"); personal
service; overnight mail or package delivery; or delivery via cable. The delivery of all notices,
reports, records, and other correspondence shall be deemed to have occurred at the time of
receipt (unless otherwise designated by State law).
B. All notices from TW to the City pursuant to this Agreement shall be sent to any
address to be designated by the City. TW shall maintain within the City, through the term of
this Franchise, a local office and telephone number for the conduct of matters related to this
Franchise. All notices to TW shall be sent to that address.
SECTIONS 25-29. RESERVED.
SECTION 30. INSURANCE.
A. To the extent permitted by law, TW shall at all times defend, indemnify,
protect, save harmless, and exempt the City, the Mayor, the City Manager, the
Council/franchising authority, their officers, agents, servants, and employees from any and all
penalty, damage, or charges arising out of claims, suits, demands, causes of action, or award
of damages, whether ..r .,satory or punitive, or expenses arising therefrom, either at law or
in equity, which might be claimed now in the future, which may arise out of, or be caused by
workers' ....r:...sation, or by the construction, erection, location, products performance,
operation, in at least the following amounts:
(1) Public liability: $2,000,000.000 per person/per occurrence;
19
(2) Property damage: S2,000,000.00 per any one (1) claim;
(3) Umbrella liability: S4,000,000.00 with up to a S50,000.00 deductible
and/or base insurance.
B. TW's public and personal liability and property damage insurance policy shall
specifically include the City and the Council/franchising authority as additional insureds.
C. The public and personal liability and r..,r;,.:y damage insurance policy shall be
issued by an agent or representative of an insurance company licensed to do business in the
State, and which has one (1) of the three highest or best ratings from the Alfred M. Best
Company.
D. Should the Council/franchising authority make a formal determination that due
to the financial, operational, technical, or legal status (or lack thereof) or condition of TW,
the above-referenced requirements for minimal insurance are inadequate, then the
Council/franchising authority may require TW to obtain and maintain insurance for greater
minimal amounts (up to, but not exceeding Five Million [$5,000,000.00] Dollars for public
liability, Five Million [$5,000,000.00] Dollars for damage, and Ten Million
[$10,000,000.00] for umbrella liability).
E. The public liability and r. r :y damage insurance policy shall contain an
endorsement obligating the insurance company to furnish the Council/franchising authority
with at least thirty (30) days written notice in advance of the cancellation of the insurance.
F. Renewal or replacement policies or certificates shall be delivered to the
Council/franchising authority at least fifteen (15) days before the expiration of the insurance
which such policies are to renew or replace.
G. Before the multi-channel system provides multi-channel service to subscribers,
TW shall deliver the policies or certificates representing the insurance to the
Council/franchising authority, and each policy or certificate delivered shall be accompanied by
evidence of payment of the premium thereon.
H. If the State permits TW to self insure, then the MCS provider may exercise its
right to self insure, as long as the minimal amounts of insurance coverage outlined in this
section are met and maintained for the entire period that TW is self insured. However, for the
reasons listed in Subsection (D) of this section, the Council/franchising authority may file a
formal determination and require an increase in the minimal amounts of insurance coverage.
SECTION 31. PERFORMANCE AND CONSTRUCTION/COMPLETION BOND.
A. TW shall furnish to the Council/franchising authority, in an amount totaling at
least One Hundred Thousand ($100,000.00) Dollars, a performance bond or security bond
executed by a surety licensed to do business in this State. The purpose of the performance
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bond is to ensure performance of any requirements imposed by this Franchise on TW.
Further, the purpose is to guarantee that should TW not fulfill any obligations imposed by this
Franchise (or where applicable, a franchise agreement), then the surety will make whole (to
the extent of the policy) any monetary losses incurred by the City.
B. TW shall furnish to the Council/franchising authority a construction/completion
bond prior to the time it commences a construction, upgrade, rebuild, or repair/maintenance
project that has a capital construction cost or outlay exceeding Fifty Thousand ($50,000.00)
Dollars in value. The amount of the bond shall equal at least ninety (90%) percent of the
projected capital construction cost. The construction/completion bond shall remain in force at
all times, unless relief is granted in an agreement between the Council/franchising authority,
and TW.
C. The construction/completion bond or security bond shall specifically guarantee
that TW will timely abide by its construction, upgrade, rebuild, or repair/maintenance
schedule for the multi-channel system and/or any timetable for technical and service
improvements or additions to the multi-channel system as may be committed to, or agreed
upon, from time to time, by the Council/franchising authority and TW.
D. If the City draws on a performance or completion bond or cash deposit as a
result of TW's failure to timely discharge its obligations, or failure to construct and activate
the multi-channel system, or failure to complete the multi-channel system upgrade or rebuild
or repair/maintenance, then TW shall be required, within thirty (30) days, to replenish the
completion and performance bond or security bond to the minimal level required by the
Council/franchising authority.
E. Should the Council/franchising authority make a formal determination that due
to TW's past performance (such as a documented history of repeated or multiple franchise
violations), or increased cost (greater than fifty [50%] percent of the original estimated cost),
or documented untimeliness or incompletion of projects listed in construction schedules, the
Council/franchising authority may raise the required amount of either the performance or the
construction/completion bond.
F. The performance bond or security bond shall be in force at all times unless
relief is granted in an agreement between TW and the Council/franchising authority.
G. In lieu of a performance bond and construction/completion bond, the
Council/franchising authority may accept a written guarantee of an MCS provider pledging the
full faith and credit of TW should there be a breach in a material franchise term, or failure to
meet any construction schedule.
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SECTION 32. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S POLICY WITH
RESPECT TO REPORTS AND RECORDS.
A. The Council/franchising authority recognizes that advances in technology, and
the adoption and application of multi-channel laws, rules, regulations, and court decisions may
have a profound effect and impact on TW in any given year.
B. Consequently, it is incumbent that the Council/franchising authority take
measures to reduce the risk that multi-channel service or the multi-channel system will be
adversely affected in any given year.
C. Therefore, the evaluation of legal, technical, financial, and character
qualifications of TW is viewed as a constant undertaking on the part of the City. As a result,
the Council/franchising authority requires that the operator maintain and retain all records and
reports necessary for the Council/franchising authority to determine compliance with the
obligations under this Franchise.
SECTION 33. FURNISHING OF REPORTS.
A. Within ninety (90) days after this Franchise becomes effective, and thereafter at
least once every twelve (12) months, TW may be required by the City to submit a list to the
Council/franchising authority, or designee, of files, reports, records, data, or other
information that TW periodically files with the FCC, or another Federal or State agency
concerning the local cable system. If TW files a non-periodic or non-regular filing with the
FCC, or another Federal or State agency, then TW shall (within sixty [60] days of that filing)
notify the Council/franchising authority of such Federal or State filing. As part of a
performance evaluation, or for any legitimate matter related to the administration of TW, the
Council/franchising authority may specifically request that it be provided with any or all listed
reports, records, data, or other information that were originally filed with the FCC or another
Federal or State agency which will impact the system in Wichita Falls. However, unless
specifically authorized by the State, TW shall not be required to provide to the
Council/franchising authority, any State or Federal tax returns, or any documents (inclusive of
all above-referenced categories) exempted under Federal privacy laws, including Section 623
of the CCPA (codified at 47 USC 551).
B. In addition to the requirements noted in Subsection (A) of this Section, TW
shall timely submit those reports, statements, and logs required by this Franchise, including,
but not limited to, the following:
(1) a periodic gross revenue statement in the manner set forth in this
Franchise;
'
(2) a periodic certification that answering of phones is meeting the
specifications listed in this Franchise;
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(3) upon request, preventive maintenance reports including actual test
results and listing of maintenance performed and the respective dates;
and,
(4) any other reports or information relative to performance of franchise
obligations.
SECTION 34. BOOKS AND RECORDS.
A. TW shall keep complete and accurate books of accounts and records of the
business and operations under, and in connection with, the MCS system.
B. The Council/franchising authority shall have the right to review (either by mail
or at TW's local office) all records (needed for the administration enforcement of this
Franchise or any franchise) on seven (7) days written notice, unless specifically exempted by
the Council/franchising authority. Such review, unless mutually agreed upon, or judicially
ordered, should occur within TW's regular office hours.
C. The Council/franchising authority shall have the right to hire, at its own
expense, an independent certified public accountant, or other business or financial expert, to
review the annual books and records of TW. If after a financial audit it is determined that TW
has underpaid amounts owed to the City (in excess of two [2%] percent), then the City may
require TW to reimburse the City for the actual cost of the audit. Note well, however, that
absent fraud, all audits shall be binding on the City. Further, TW shall only be required to
maintain the financial records necessary to verify franchise fees.
D. A false entry into the books and/or records of TW, of a material and substantial
' fact shall constitute a material violation of this Franchise. However, an erroneous entry, made
in good faith, shall not constitute a material violation of this Franchise.
' E. TW shall keep complete and accurate books and records of the key aspects of
the multi-channel system's operation for at least the preceding three (3) years in such a
' manner that all matters pertaining to the franchise performance of franchise obligations in the
City can be easily produced and/or verified at the City's request. Also, TW shall make
available and produce upon request, any other application records and information that may be
required by any other Federal or State agency having jurisdiction over TW, with respect to the
Wichita Falls MCS system.
SECTIONS 35-39. RESERVED).
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SECTION 40. NOTIFICATION OF CUSTOMERS AND MCS PROVIDERS' RIGHTS
AND RESPONSIBILITIES: GENERAL POLICY.
A. The Council/franchising authority recognizes that it is critical that a customer of
TW fully understand and rea1im the rights and responsibilities of both the customer and TW
with respect to the provision, maintenance, and repair of multi-channel service.
B. Further, the Council/franchising authority believes that if sufficient information
is provided to a customer on certain customer service practices such as rates, billing periods,
number and types of service provided, and rules concerning equipment use and return, then
that customer will have the information necessary to make an informed decision on what, if
any, multi-channel services to subscribe to and receive.
C. In order to provide customers with the variety of information needed to make
an informed decision, and to ensure that customers are notified of their and TW's rights and
responsibilities with respect to the multi-channel system, TW must provide a customer with a
written "Notice of a Customer's and TW's Rights and Responsibilities With Respect to the
Provision of Multi-Channel Service."
D. The "Notice of a Customer's and TW's Rights and Responsibilities With
Respect to the Provision of Multi-Channel Service" shall be provided at the time of initial
installation. Thereafter, a subscriber shall be provided with a written "Notice" at least once
each calendar year. If, however, TW amends, repeals, adds, deletes, modifies, or makes other
changes to any customer service practice that is required in this Franchise, then TW shall
b' provide a subscriber with such written notification at least thirty (30) days prior to the
effective date, if possible, of such amendment, repeal, addition, deletion, modification, or
other change.
E. Unless expressly prohibited by the State, TW may comply with the "Notice"
requirements by providing said "Notice" over the MCS system, on a channel clearly
designated for the dissemination of such information (such a channel need not be solely
designated for dissemination of such information, and may, in fact, be used at other times for
any lawful purpose).
SECTION 41. NOTICE OF CUSTOMER'S AND TW'S RIGHTS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES WITH RESPECT TO THE PROVISION OF MULTI-CHANNEL
SERVICE; MINIMUM CONTENTS.
A. TW is required to furnish an annual "Notice," such "Notice" shall contain, at a
minimum, the following:
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(1) an up-to-date listing of the specific multi-channel services provided --
clearly indicating and isolating the basic, premium, and informational
services offered, as well as the service tiers or service clusters offered;
(2) notification of a subscriber's ability to purchase or lease, from TW, a
lock box, parental control mechanism, or other device which will
prohibit the viewing of a particular multi-channel service during a
period selected by the subscriber;
(3) pursuant to FCC regulations, a subscriber's ability of purchasing or
using an A/B or input selector switch;
(4) a comprehensive listing and explanation of all rates and charges
(including rates for standard or basic and premium channels/services,
particular service tiers or service clusters, installation charges, and
security deposits, if any);
(5) if service clustering is available, then a description and explanation of
any penalties, credits, restrictions, upcoming (within sixty [601 days, if
possible, of the "Notice") service clustering changes or differing
alignments, or other pertinent information;
(6) a comprehensive listing and explanation of all billing options available
(such as monthly, quarterly, or yearly, and/or discounts for pre-
Payments);
(7) the customer service office hours and telephone number(s) in a manner
consistent with the specific policy set forth in this Franchise;
(8) the billing practices of TW in a manner consistent with the specific
policy set forth in this Franchise;
(9) the specific customer complaint/inquiry resolution policy that is adopted
and followed by TW and which is consistent with the parameters set
forth in this Franchise;
(10) the availability, upon request, of the rules and regulations for using any
production and playback facilities, including a studio or mobile van of
TW;
(11) the method of securing a voluntary disconnection in a manner consistent
with the specific policy set forth in this franchise;
(12) rules relatingto both connections and involuntary disconnections;
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(13) the extent of the credit/refund policy in a manner consistent with the
specific policy set forth in this Franchise;
(14) the equipment use and return policy, together with any required security
deposits in a manner consistent with the specific policy set forth in this
Franchise; and,
(15) the additional rights of blind, hearing-impaired or ambulatory-impaired
customers in a manner consistent with applicable law or a franchise
agreement.
B. The "Notice" shall be written in plain, simple-to-understand English. The
"Notice" shall contain no fine print, and any exclusions, limitations, or caveats shall be
clearly indicated as such in the "Notice."
C. The "Notice" may be delivered to a subscriber via an insert in the subscriber's
periodic invoice, or through a special mailing, or over an MCS channel clearly designated for
the dissemination of such information.
SECTION 42. BILLING PRACTICES.
A. Within the "Notice" that is required by this Franchise, subscribers shall be
informed of at least the following billing Practices of TW:
(1) billing procedures (including payments necessary to avoid
discontinuance of service);
(2) payment due and delinquent dates;
ii' (3) amount of percentage of late charges, if any;
I
(4) advance billing options;
(5) resolution procedures for billing disputes, complaints, and inquiries;
I (6) refund policy for service interruptions, substandard signal quality, or
uncontracted service;
I (7) current service rates in a detailed and understandable format;
I (8) procedure and amount of charges for installation or relocation of TW's
facilities and/or equipment;
I
(9) current schedule and explanation for any billed charges or other non-
regularly occurring fees invoiced to subscribers; and,
I
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(10) any lower-income or fixed-income rates, together with any
qualifications to obtain such rates.
B. All periodic service bills shall plainly state that there shall be no later charge or
penalty assessed if payment is received by the last date of the billing period.
C. Existing subscribers shall be informed of the items listed in Subsection (1) at
least once every calendar year.
D. Whenever there is a change in TW's billing practices or payment requirements,
all subscribers must be notified in writing at least thirty (30) days before such billing practices
or payment requirements become effective.
E. In any case where a subscriber requests a cancellation or reduction of service
within thirty (30) days after the notification of a scheduled rate or charge adjustment, then the
subscriber's liability for the newly implemented rate or charge shall cease from the moment
the rate or charge adjustment becomes effective.
SECTION 43. BILLING CREDIT FOR SERVICE OUTAGES, INTERRUPTIONS;
SUBSTANDARD SIGNAL OR PICTURE QUALITY OR UNSOLICITED SERVICE.
A. TW shall provide a subscriber with a prorated credit for service outage
exceeding eight (8) hours in duration upon request.
B. Where not expressly prohibited by the State, TW shall give credit to a
subscriber in cases of substandard signal or picture quality after notice has been given to TW.
Such credit shall be based on the number of channels affected and the period of time the
outage occurred.
C. In the case of a charge for unsolicited service, TW shall provide a subscriber
with an adjustment or billing credit on the next available billing statement. Moreover, in such
a case, TW shall not consider a subscriber delinquent for failure to pay a charge for
unsolicited service.
SECTION 44. PROHIBITION AGAINST NEGATIVE OPTION PROMOTIONAL
PACKAGES.
A. The Council/franchising authority both recognizes and determines that as a
matter of consumer protection, a subscriber should be charged only for those services that
such subscriber has affirmatively requested. Therefore, TW may not bill or invoice any
subscriber for any multi-channel service that is not affirmatively requested by the subscriber.
B. For purposes of this section, a subscriber's affirmative request need not be in
writing, but TW relying on an oral request must keep an accurate record of the date on which
the request was made.
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' C. For purposes of this section, a subscriber shall be deemed to have affirmatively
requested a multi-channel service if:
(1) the subscriber voluntarily makes payment for the multi-channel service;
and,
(2) there was included, in the notice or advertising material describing the
service, a statement clearly advising the subscriber that such subscriber
has incurred no obligation to pay for such service, and that such
subscriber need not take any action to avoid incurring any such
obligation.
D. Moreover, TW may not automatically enroll a subscriber into a different class
or tier or multi-channel service without first informing (at least thirty [30] days in advance)
such subscriber of any, and all, costs associated with such a different class or tier or multi-
channel service.
E. Additionally, TW may not invoice a subscriber for disconnecting or
downgrading from a "negatively promoted" or automatically enrolled class or tier of multi-
channel service.
F. Should a subscriber be charged for a multi-channel service in violation of this
section, then TW shall provide a subscriber with an adjustment or billing credit on the next
available billing statement. Moreover, in such case, TW shall not consider a subscriber
delinquent for failure to pay a charge for a non-affirmatively requested multi-channel service.
SECTION 45. SPECIAL RULES CONCERNING SALES SOLICITATIONS.
enga
ge
Should TW en a in sales solicitations (via phone, cellular phone, interactive
multi-channel system, PCN, or other type of personal, communications system), the following
' rules apply (unless pre-empted by Federal or State law):
(1) sales solicitors identify themselves at the outset of the communication;
(2) sales solicitors must not engage in bait-and-switch tactics -- that is, they
' must not initially offer a lower-priced service only to inform the
customer of its unavailability, or offer the lower-priced service in order
to pressure sale a higher-priced service; and,
(3) sales solicitors must quote the full and complete cost for any service
sold or subscribed to during the course of the communication.
' B. The restrictions outlined in Subsection (A) of this section shall not apply to
sales solicitations which are done or occur in the following circumstances:
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(1) in response to a customer's specific request;
(2) at a time mutually agreed upon by an authorized representative of TW
and the customer;
(3) in connection with a charitable contribution or charitable purpose;
(4) in connection with a home shopping or travel-related service; and,
(5) where the sales solicitor has established (and can document) a previous,
or on-going commercial relationship with the customer.
C. These restrictions outlined in Subsection (A) of this section shall not apply to
sales solicitations via printed material in that such printed solicitations or advertisements are
deemed not as disruptive or intrusive as solicitations noted in Subsection (A) of this Section.
SECTION 46. SPECIAL RULES FOR MENU-DRIVEN SYSTEMS, SERVICE
CLUSTERS, AND PACKAGING OF SERVICE TIERS.
A. The Council/franchising authority recognizes that the concept of menu-driven
program/service selection has both positive and negative aspects. On the one hand, menu-
driven program/service selection allows the greatest flexibility for a subscriber in that it
permits the subscriber to essentially create a program/service package tailored to the
subscriber's budget, viewing habits, and informational needs. On the other hand, menu-driven
program/service selection is susceptible to unauthorized or unknowing purchases, and
uninformed program choices if certain procedural and operational safeguards are not
maintained.
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B. Should TW implement and/or offer menu-driven program/service selection for
all, or the majority, of TW's multi-channel services, then the Council/franchising authority
may negotiate with TW concerning the following potential problem areas:
(1) notification to the subscriber on a periodic (at least monthly) basis of the
exact costs for each menu-driven program/service, including any
' installation or equipment rental charges;
(2) notification of what constitutes, or what is required for selection or
subscription to a particular program/service;
(3) limitations on negative option marketing plans when done in connection
with a menu-driven system, unless the subscriber is initially informed,
consents to be included on a list of potential subscribers; and,
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(4) restricting access to menu-driven program/service selection by
subscribers (through the use of individual, non-duplicative access codes
or some other means). in order to limit unauthorized purchases.
C. If, at the time TW implements and/or offers menu-driven program/service
selection, TW also adopts an operational policy which protects subscribers from those
potential problem areas listed in Subsection (B) of this section, then the Council/franchising
authority shall not exercise its additional regulatory authority on this subject as provided in
this section or as provided by application law, unless there is documentation that the adopted
policy of TW is not being enforced, or is ineffective in safeguarding subscribers from the
potential abuses listed above.
D. As for service clusters, and the packaging of service tiers, and to provide both a
disincentive for "bait-and-switch tactics," and to promote cluster and tier stability, TW may
not switch any particular multi-channel service from one tier or cluster to another without
thirty (30) days notice, if possible; provided, however, that upon thirty (30) days prior notice,
TW may rearrange, re-tier, re-cluster, or otherwise offer its multi-channel service.
E. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as mandating any particular
Iprogramming choice being provided to a subscriber. Nor should this section be construed as
requiring any particular program, service, cluster, or service tier. Rather, this section is
designed to promote cluster and tier stability, so that a subscriber may choose a program,
' service, cluster, or tier that best suits the subscriber's individual programming and
informational needs.
' SECTION 47. CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS; CAPABILITIES OF CUSTOMER
SERVICE OFFICE; AND TELEPHONES.
A. TW shall maintain in the City a business office for the purpose of receiving
inquiries, requests and complaints concerning all aspects of the construction, installation,
operation, and maintenance of the system and for the payment of subscribers' service charges,
and providing facilities for the production of programming.
IB. The customer service office shall be open at least forty-five (45) hours per
week (exclusive of holidays), including some Saturday hours.
C. Within the forty-five (45) hours per week that a customer service office must be
open, TW must provide office hours either on at least two (2) evenings (after 5 p.m.), or on
Saturdays and/or Sundays (if not prohibited by State law).
D. The customer service office should have an adequate and knowledgeable staff in
order to handle the vast majority of customer service inquiries, specifically including, but not
Ilimited to: billing inquiries refunds, service outages, equipment service and repair, payment of
bills and other charges.
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E. TW may install (at its customer service office) an after-hours depository in
order to collect invoice payments and receive requests for service appointments (including
connections and disconnections) after scheduled office hours.
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F. TW may install an automated (audio or video) customer assistance device or
machine which can handle various types of customer inquiries.
G. Neither the presence of an after-hours depository or automated customer service
is adequate
relieves TW from maintaining the minimal required number of office hours, or
adequate CSR staff to handle the majority of service inquiries (unless TW can demonstrate to
the Council/franchising authority's satisfaction that the efficiency of such devices reduces the
need for customer service hours or CSR personnel).
H. Upon request, TW shall certify to the Council/franchising authority that each
customer service representative (CSR) has taken a TW-implemented course designed to train
CSR's to handle their jobs in a courteous, efficient and responsive manner.
• I. TW shall maintain at least one (1) toll-free and/or local telephone number to
accommodate normal business inquiries.
i J. TW shall maintain a separate twenty-four (24) hour toll-free or local telephone
number to facilitate calls concerning repair of equipment and extended interruption of service.
During any hours that the customer service office is open, TW must have or make available
in-house personnel to address a customer's inquiries. During other hours, a telephone may be
manned by an automatic answering device, provided that the use of an answering device or
answering service still results in an initial phone call by TW within sixty (60) minutes, in
order to at least determine the extent of the outage; except that TW shall not be required to
make in-person telephone contacts to subscribers at a rate which exceeds sixty (60) calls per
hour, and shall not be required to make such calls between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00
a.m.
K. TW shall have adequate staff and/or extension lines (except during special
marketing promotion periods, peak billing cycles, and service outages) in order to handle calls
to the general information number to the following specifications:
(1) Eighty-five (85%) percent of all customer calls received in a year shall
be answered within three (3) minutes by a representative of TW, or by a
device that is capable of receiving complaint/inquiry resolution; and,
(2) The rate of abandoned calls shall be less than five (5%) percent over a
year's period of time. "Abandoned calls" shall in no event be deemed to
include calls in which the caller hangs up within forty-five (45) seconds
of making the call.
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L. With respect to the specifications listed in Subsection (K) of this section, it shall
be TW's responsibility to certify upon request, to the CouncWfranchising authority that TW is
meeting the minimal specifications.
SECTION 48. CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS
A. TW shall meet the FCC's Standards for Customer Service and the systems
standards as provided in Appendix A, "Consumer Standards," attached hereto and
incorporated by reference. TW shall provide to the City annual management data, including
data from any service centers used by TW, related to compliance with the FCC's Standards
for Customer Service. At such time as TW does not meet the FCC and or the Franchise
requirements for repair for one quarter, TW shall take corrective action to ensure that such
standards are met during the next quarter. At such time as the FCC no longer promulgates
Consumer Service Standards, the FCC standards in effect on the effective date of this
Franchise will be in force.
SECTION 49. RESERVED
SECTION 50. PREFERENTIAL OR DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES PROHIBITED.
A. TW shall not, as to rules, regulations, rates, charges, provision of service, or
use of a provider's facilities and equipment, make, allow, or grant any undue preference or
advantage to any person, nor subject any person to prejudice or disadvantage on the basis of
age, race, creed, color, sex, national origin, handicap, religious affiliation or location of
residence.
B. Consistent with Section 621(a)(3) of the CCPA (codified at 47 USC 541[a][3]),
TW shall not deny cable service, or the extension of cable service, to any group of potential
residential cable subscribers because of the income of the residents of the local area in which
such group resides.
C. Subsection (A) of this section, however, does not prohibit TW from offering a
promotional or incentive discount rate or charge as long as the rate or charge does not exceed
three hundred seventy (370) days in length. This subsection does not prohibit TW from
offering special incentive rates such as one (1) month basic service free, if twelve (12) months
of basic service are paid in one (1) payment or within a certain time frame.
D. Subsection (A) of this section also does not prohibit TW from denying service
based on location of residence, if that residence is outside the parameters for line extension as
detailed in a franchise agreement (if applicable).
E. Subsection (A) of this section also does not prohibit TW from denying service
to a subscriber who is more than thirty (30) days delinquent in the payment of any periodic
service, or special service bill, so long as the requirements for disconnection (as outlined in
this Franchise) have been satisfied.
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F. Subsection (A) of this section also does not prohibit TW from implementing a
carefully designed no-frills service tier or service cluster for "lower income," and/or fixed
income individuals.
G. Subsection (A) of this section also does not prohibit TW from making
agreements or entering into multi-channel service agreements with multiple dwelling unit
owners (including hotel, motel, and mobile home park owners) to provide multi-channel
service under a bulk billing or other type of arrangement.
SECTION 51. USE OF EQUIPMENT, RETURN OF EQUIPMENT, SECURITY
DEPOSITS, AND i nr.IR RETURN.
A. Prior to formally delivering any equipment, including auxiliary equipment
(such as an in-home terminal, input selector switch, or video control recorder) to a customer,
TW shall have tested a representative sample of such equipment to make sure it is in proper
working order.
B. If needed for proper operation, or requested by a customer, TW shall deliver to
a customer, handwritten or typed instructions detailing the proper use of rented, loaned, or
purchased equipment. Unless required by another section of this Franchise, TW may comply
with this section by delivering the manufacturer's instructions to a customer.
C. TW is not required to seek a security deposit from a customer for use or rental
of TW's equipment.
D. TW shall comply with any and all applicable State rules concerning the
imposition, retention, and return of security deposits.
E. As a matter of consumer protection, TW shall be prohibited from charging any
security deposit for multi-channel service to residential subscribers which exceeds twice the
monthly rate for services purchased.
F. TW may charge an appropriate security deposit in those instances where a
customer is re-connected after an involuntary disconnection for non-payment or prior history
of unsatisfactory payment.
G. TW shall return a security deposit after the equipment is satisfactorily returned.
H. A customer shall maintain any equipment rented or leased from TW in good
working order, and operate such equipment only in the manner specified by TW or the
manufacturer of the equipment.
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I. A customer shall totally and fully reimburse TW for any damage or loss to
TW's equipment that is due to the customer's failure to properly maintain and operate such
equipment.
J. A customer shall be relieved from any responsibility for reimbursing TW for
equipment which malfunctions or does not operate due to a hidden or latent defect in the
equipment, or for equipment which fails to operate, or improperly operates due to natural
occurrences conditioned by the normal wear and tear of such equipment, or for equipment
damaged or destroyed by an act of nature, with appropriate documentation.
SECTION 52. SERVICE INQUIRY LOGS.
A. TW shall be required to keep and maintain logs of inquiry, complaint, and
requests which require further action of TW to resolve, subject to any limitations imposed by
State or Federal law, any subscriber privacy limitations imposed by the CCPA. Complaints
related to rates and programming are excluded.
B. The purpose of the service inquiry logs is to assist the City in assessing (in the
aggregate) the type, degree, and resolution of customer service requests, inquiries, and
complaints.
C. At a minimum, the service inquiry logs should contain the following:
(1) the time and date of initial receipt of any service request, inquiry, or
complaint, together with the time and date of initial response to that
service request, inquiry or complaint;
(2) the nature of the service request, inquiry, or complaint;
(3) the resolution of the service inquiry, request or complaint and the date
thereof;
(4) the location of the City where the service request, inquiry, or request
was generated.
D. In addition to any other right of inspection that the Council/franchising
authority may possess, it shall have the right to review and inspect a compilation of such logs.
However, the Council/franchising authority shall not have the right of access, review, or
inspection for any service inquiry logs or any information contained within service inquiry
logs that are otherwise protected from access, review, or inspection by State or Federal law.
E. This section does not require TW to maintain service inquiry logs on scheduled
installations.
SECTIONS 53 - 57. RESERVED.
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SECTION 58. RESTORATION OF A SUBSCRIBER'S PROPERTY.
A. At any time TW (in furtherance of its right to construct, operate, and maintain
the multi-channel system), disturbs the yard, residence or other real or personal property of a
subscriber, TW shall ensure that the subscriber's yard, residence or other personal property is
returned, replaced, and/or restored to a condition that is sufficiently comparable to the
condition that existed prior to the commencement of the work.
B. The costs associated with both the disturbance and the return, replacement,
and/or restoration shall be borne by TW. This subsection also requires TW to reimburse a
subscriber or private je—t,:,a:" owner, for any damage caused by TW, its subcontractor, or its
independent contractor, in connection with the disturbance of a subscriber or private property
owner's r.,,r:,•i.f
C. The types of acts specifically included in this section are the following:
(1) removal of a subscriber's sod, lawn, plants, shrubbery, flowers, trees,
driveway, or fence, to install, trench, repair, replace, remove, or locate
cable or other equipment of TW;
(2) installation or removal of cable or other equipment of TW within a
subscriber's residence which requires drilling, excavating, plastering, or
the like on the part of TW;
(3) temporarily relocating or moving a piece of personal property or a
fixture of a subscriber (such as a motor vehicle, fence, air conditioning
or heating unit, or the like), in order to perform some sort of
construction, maintenance, or repair on the multi-channel system; or
(4) permanently removing TW's cable or equipment due to either the
revocation, termination, or non-renewal of a franchise (if applicable), or
the abandonment, withdrawal, or cessation of multi-channel service to
any portion of the City.
D. The requirements imposed upon TW extend to any subcontractor or
independent contractor that TW might employ to perform the tasks outlined in this section.
E. In light of the foregoing, TW has the authority and responsibility to diligently
trim trees of a private .r ,..:y owner (including a subscriber) within the streets and public
ways, but only to the extent necessary to prevent the branches of the trees from coming in
contact with TW's wires and cables.
35
SECTION 59. SERVICE INQUIRIES, REQUESTS, COMPLAINTS, AND RESPONSE
TIMES.
A. Except in times of a natural or man-made emergency, or an appointment
scheduled with the mutual consent of a subscriber, TW shall respond to the service inquiries,
requests, and complaints of subscribers, within TW's normal business or service hours, and
within the time schedules detailed in subsections (B) through (G) of this section. Moreover;
except in emergency situations, TW shall inform the customer whether the service call is
scheduled for the morning, afternoon, or evening hours. If the service call has to be canceled
or rearranged, then TW shall make every effort to notify the customer as soon as possible, and
shall (unless the subscriber decides otherwise) re-schedule the service call for a time within
twenty-four (24) hours of the cancellation. The term "service call" as used in this section does
not refer to initial installation.
B. In the case of a signal or service interruption, TW shall ninety-five (95%)
percent of the time respond to, and make repairs as are necessary to resume the signal or
service to the subscriber within twenty-four (24) hours from the time TW first received
notification of the signal or service interruption.
C. In the case of a "blank" or "no-picture" situation of any given level of billing or
service (except for pay-per-view events), TW shall respond to, and make repairs as are
necessary to return the multi-channel service within twenty-four (24) hours from the time TW
first received notification of the "blank" or "no-picture" situation.
D. In the case of a defective, improperly operating, or non-operating piece of
equipment, TW shall respond to, and make repairs as are necessary to correct the problem
within thirty-six (36) hours from the time TW first received notification of the defective,
improperly operating, or non-operating piece of equipment.
E. In the case of repair to a piece of equipment in a subscriber's residence, or
repair to the cable (coaxial, fiber or functional equivalent), the repair should be completed,
and the situation resolved, at the conclusion of the first service visit. If the repair is not
completed and resolved within three (3) visits, and if as a result of the insufficient repair, a
situation remains wherein there is a visually or audibly detected degradation of a multi-channel
signal, then TW shall take whatever steps are necessary to correct the situation.
F. In no case shall a subscriber's service request or inquiry go unresponded or
unattended to for more than one (1) work day from the time TW first received notification of
the service inquiry or request. Moreover, except in emergency situations, all requests and
inquiries shall be handled or corrected within thirty-six (36) hours from the time TW first
received notification. If a cancellation of a service call occurs, then TW shall re-schedule the
call in a manner consistent with the guidelines expressed in Subsection (A) of this section.
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G. In case of a dispute concerning the precise time that TW received notification,
or the precise circumstances surrounding TW receiving the notification, or whether
notification was received at all, the Council/franchising authority shall reserve the right and
authority to settle such a dispute, subject to the right of any party to the dispute to seek
resolution in court.
H. Provided, however, that TW may make service calls in order of severity. That
is, total outages will take precedence over area outages; area outages take precedence over a
single home; and multi-channel problems take precedence over a single channel.
SECTION 60. TW REQUIRED TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT REPAIR PARTS AND
SUFFICIENT REPAIR PERSONNEL.
A. Except in times of natural or man-made emergency, TW shall, at all times,
have access to, and be able to secure, sufficient maintenance and repair parts and equipment
for the MCS system, so that TW can respond to, and correct, all subscriber service
interruptions within the time periods specified in this Franchise.
B. Having access to, and being able to secure sufficient maintenance and repair
parts and equipment, is necessary to promptly restore a subscriber's multi-channel service,
and avoid delays caused by having to obtain needed parts and equipment.
C. Except in times of natural or man-made emergency, or a strike (whose duration
has been less than seventy-two [72] hours), TW shall have sufficient maintenance and repair
' personnel so that the MCS provider can respond to, and correct, subscriber service
interruptions within the time periods specified in this Franchise.
' D. TW shall, upon request, annually certify to the Council/franchising authority
that each service technician has taken a TW-implemented course designed to train service
technicians to handle their jobs in a courteous, efficient, and responsive manner. Also, the
course should be designed to provide continuing education to service technicians in changes in
technology, repair/maintenance procedures and related matters.
E. Notwithstanding the other requirements and provisions contained in this
section, TW shall maintain at least one (1) service technician on call twenty-four (24) hours
per day.
SECTION 61. NEW INSTALLATIONS; CONNECTIONS-REGULAR,
PROMOTIONAL, SEASONAL, SHORT-TERM, PAY-PER-VIEW, AND MENU-
DRIVEN; RS CONNECTIONS.
' A. New installations, promotional, short-term, or seasonal connections,
reconnections, and upgrades of multi-channel service by TW shall be performed and
completed within seven (7) days of a customer requesting such.
' 37
B. The provisions of Subsection (A) of this section shall not apply to pay-per-view
or menu-driven connections.
C. While TW may charge a customer for installing, connecting, or reconnecting
multi-channel service, such charge must be understood, and approved by the customer prior to
the installation, connection, or reconnection.
D. In the case of a promotiona.. or seasonal connection, any limitations or
restrictions must be explained prior to the promotional or seasonal connection.
E. TW may charge an appropriate reconnection charge or require a security
deposit in those instances where a customer is reconnected after an involuntary disconnection
for non-payment or a prior history of unsatisfactory payment. However, the reconnection
charge or security deposit must be based on the prior unsatisfactory payment history, or
involuntary disconnection of the customer, and not the location or address of the residence or
structure.
F. Downgrading a particular service level or service cluster to a lower-priced or
less comprehensive service or cluster level shall not be considered a connection to the lower-
priced or less comprehensive level of service. TW shall comply with any and all rules
concerning downgrading.
SECTION 62. DISCONNECTION FOR NON-PAYMENT.
A. A subscriber shall not be considered delinquent for disconnection purposes in
payment until at least forty-five (45) days after the posting of the bill to the subscriber, and
payment has not been received by TW.
B. Before disconnection of a subscriber's multi-channel service (either physically
or electronically) takes place, the following must occur:
(1) the subscriber must in fact be delinquent in payment of multi-chaMel
service; and,
(2) at least five (5) days have elapsed after a separate written notice of
impending disconnection has been personally served upon the
subscriber; or,
(3) at least eight (8) days have elapsed after mailing a separate written
notice of impending disconnection to the subscriber; or,
(4) at least five (5) days have elapsed after the subscriber has either signed
for, or refused to accept, a separate written notice of impending
disconnection; or,
38
(5) at least five (5) days have elapsed after an electronic notice.
C. The written notice of disconnection must expressly and clearly state the amount
that is owed by the subscriber to TW, the minimum amount required to be paid to avoid
disconnection, and the date and place where such payment must be made.
D. When TW physically retrieves its equipment (including converter, remote
control unit, or digital audio tuner) from a subscriber, the Company must do so between the
hours of 8:00 o'clock a.m. to 9:00 o'clock p.m.
E. Receipt of a "bad check" from a subscriber in response to a written notice of
disconnection does not constitute payment, and TW need not give the subscriber further notice
prior to disconnecting multi-channel service.
F. TW may add a reasonable collection charge to the subscriber's bill if the
applicable provisions of this Franchise and any applicable State regulations are followed.
G. Any refund due a subscriber after such a disconnection shall be made within
sixty (60) days of the disconnection for non-payment.
SECTION 63. VOLUNTARY DISCONNECTIONS AND DOWNGRADES.
A. At any time, a subscriber who does not have a separate contract with TW may
request that a particular service tier, service cluster, menu-driven program/service, pay
channel, premium channel, informational service, or the entire multi-channel service be
disconnected.
B. Any contract for service, if requested, must be a separate, individual document
requiring the subscriber's signature; otherwise, it may be on the back of a work order or other
document.
C. Where provided by TW, a subscriber may request a downgrade from a
particular level of service to a less comprehensive level of service, or a less expensive level of
service.
D. From the date that such a subscriber makes such a request for either a
disconnection or downgrade, then TW shall have seventy-two (72) hours or three (3) service
days, whichever is longer, to disconnect or downgrade the service tier, pay channel, premium
channel, informational service, or entire multi-channel service. In the event that TW does not
disconnect or downgrade service within seventy-two (72) hours, a subscriber's obligation to
pay for such service shall cease, or in the case of a downgrade, a subscriber's obligation to
pay for the more comprehensive and/or higher priced service shall cease.
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E. For a service tier, service cluster, menu-driven service, premium channel or
informational service which is voluntarily disconnected, a subscriber shall pay a pro rata share
of the monthly rate for such service tier, service cluster, menu-driven service, premium
channel or informational service.
F. Once a valid connection to a menu-driven program, or a pay-per-view event
occurs, then TW may collect the full advertised or quoted rate, should the customer then
attempt to disconnect the menu-driven program or pay-per-view event.
G. Any separate disconnect or downgrade charge shall be in compliance with FCC
rate regulation.
H. If, however, TW's equipment is or has been damaged by a subscriber, prior to
such disconnection, then TW may charge the subscriber with the entire cost for such damage,
provided that TW notify the subscriber within thirty (30) days of the disconnection. A
subscriber shall not be required to pay for equipment failure, if the circumstances fall within
the normal wear and tear guidelines established in this Franchise.
I. Any refund due a subscriber after disconnection (both for non-payment and
voluntary disconnections) shall be made within sixty (60) days after such disconnection. This
subsection specifically includes the situation where a subscriber voluntarily disconnects service
but is entitled to a refund as a result of a service outage that exceeds eight (8) hours in
duration. In such case, a subscriber will also receive any refund due as a result of the service
outage within sixty (60) days after the voluntary disconnection.
J. In no event will this section be viewed as abridging the rights and remedies
afforded by the subscriber complaint/inquiry resolution process outlined in this Franchise.
tSECTIONS 64 - 68. RESERVED.
SECTION 69. PROTECTION OF SUBSCRIBER PRIVACY.
A. TW shall abide by any and all subscriber privacy rules or regulations of the
Federal or State governments.
B. TW J, shall also abide by and comply with any subscriber privacy
' protection requirements and procedures listed in Section 631 of the CCPA (codified at 47
USC 551).
tSECTION 70. RESOLUTION OF COMPLAINTS/INQUIRIES.
A. TW is required to develop a comprehensive complaint/inquiry resolution policy
' that is consistent with the rules and regulations outlined in this Franchise.
40
1111
B. TW's complaint/inquiry resolution policy shall be reduced to writing, and such
policy shall be available upon request to any person. In any event, a subscriber shall receive
notice of such policy in the manner that is prescribed by this Franchise.
C. TW's complaint/inquiry not requiring a service call and resolution policy shall
contain at least the following minimal standards:
(1) the initial response to a complaint/inquiry shall occur no later than two
(2) business days after receipt of the complaint/inquiry or the next
business day;
(2) every attempt will be made to resolve the complaint/inquiry within one
(1) week after receipt of the complaint/inquiry;
(3) complaints/inquiries that fall into the category of service inquiries shall
abide by the procedure set forth in this Franchise;
(4) informing subscribers of the credit/refund policy which is consistent
with this Franchise and any applicable State regulations; and,
(5) informing subscribers of the billing disputes policy which is consistent
with this Franchise and any applicable State regulations.
SECTION 71. POLICY WITH RESPECT TO CONTINUITY OF MULTI-CHANNEL
SERVICE PROVISIONS.
A. The Council/franchising authority declares that as part of its right to establish
multi-channel customer service guidelines, it has the duty to ensure continuity of multi-
` channel service for all subscribers. In that light, the Counci lfranchising authority also
determines that it may take 1 r Y,.. t..'.ate measures in order to ensure that no portion of the City
is threatened or faced with a disruption, interruption, or discontinuance of multi-channel
service due to the actions of TW.
B. In addition to the principles and ideals enumerated in Subsection (A), the
Council/franchising authority also expresses that its policy covers the following:
(1) to provide for continuity of multi-channel service in the event of
acquisition by the City;
(2) to provide for continuity of service in the event of a proposed
abandonment, withdrawal, or cessation of multi-channel service by TW;
(3) to provide for continuity of service in the event of revocation,
termination, or non-renewal of TW's franchise;
41
(4) to provide for continuity of service in the event a transaction occurs that
affects the ownership or control of TW, such as an assignment, sale,
transfer, or merger;
(5) to provide for continuity of service in the event of an expiration of a
franchise;
(6) to prevent disruption of multi-channel service which would provide a
hardship on those subscribers who rely on the multi-channel system as
their primary or secondary source for information; and,
(7) to prevent the interruption or cessation of multi-channel service which
would disrupt or eliminate the diversity of programming choices enjoyed
by subscribers of the multi-channel system, and thereby restricting their
ability to receive information.
C. In any situation (including those mentioned above) which threatens the City and
subscribers with the loss or interruption in the continuity of multi-channel service, then TW
' shall provide the Council/franchising authority with at least forty-five (45) days notice (except
in extreme circumstances) prior to the effective date of any action which would cause a loss or
interruption in the continuity of multi-channel service. The purpose of the notice is to apprise
' the Council/franchising authority of the possibility of such loss or interruption in the
continuity of multi-channel service, so that it might explore its options and take appropriate
measures.
' D. Whenever any situation occurs (including those mentioned above) which
threatens the City and subscribers with the loss or interruption in the continuity of multi-
channel service, then the Council/franchising authority may direct TW for a period of up to
twenty-four (24) months to do everything in its power to ensure that all subscribers receive
continuous, uninterrupted multi-channel service.
E. Duringthe interim period, the Council/franchising authority shall work with
TW in order to secure a new multi-channel system owner, or rectify the problem so that the
' threat of loss of continuity is removed at the earliest possible instance.
F. During any interim period in which TW continues to provide multi-channel
service to subscribers, TW is entitled to all revenues collected, except any sums owed
(including franchise fees, alternative user charges, and taxes) to the City or to other persons.
G. In the event that the threat of loss of continuity is not resolved within twenty-
four (24) months, then the CouncWfranchising authority may extend the interim period on a
' month-to-month basis until the situation is satisfactorily resolved. Also in such a circumstance,
the Council/franchising authority may adopt any emergency rules or procedures which will
ensure that the subscribers will receive continuous, uninterrupted multi-channel service.
42
111.
H. Nothing in this section should be construed as requiring TW to operate the
multi-channel system at a continued financial loss for an extended period of time. While the
Council/franchising authority may require continuity of service in instances where this
Franchise is revoked or terminated, it must lift such requirement as soon as the threat of loss
of service is removed. Consequently, the Council/franchising authority must take appropriate
steps to both ensure the continuity of service and minimize the financial loss incurred by TW
if the abandonment, cessation or withdrawal is caused by bankruptcy or insolvency.
SECTION 72. CONTINUED USE OF INDIVIDUAL ANTENNAS PROTECTED.
A. The Council/franchising authority does not intend to prohibit the erection or
continued use of individual television antennas within the City so long as the individual
' television antennas conform to any and all applicable zoning and/or land use regulations.
Consequently, no person shall be required to receive multi-channel service or to physically
connect to the multi-channel system.
' B. It is also noted that no person shall be penalized or fined (through either a home
sales contract, deed of restrictive covenants, or other type of agreement) for failing or refusing
to receive multi-channel service, or failing or refusing to physically connect to the multi-
channel system.
' SECTION 73. SYSTEM AND CAPACITY
A. By no later than thirty (30) months after the effective date of this Franchise
Agreement, Grantee shall complete a rebuild of its cable system in the Franchise area in
accordance with the following system design requirements:
' (1) The system in its entirety shall use at least downstream channel capacity
of least 750 MHz equipment capable of at least 110 channels;
(2) The system will be designed so that an average of no more than five
hundred (500) homes will be served per node, so that no more than one
' thousand (1,000) homes will be served by any one node, and so that
there will be no more than an average of ten (10) active devices between
the headend and the subscriber. The trunk and feeder design will
' average a maximum cascade of no more than five (5) bridger amplifiers
and three (3) line extenders. All passive devices shall be capable of
passing 1 GHz.
(3) Standby power at the headend will be provided by standby generator
with a minimum fuel supply of forty-eight (48) hours. All distribution
' trunks and fiber optic nodes will have battery-powered inverters with a
minimum running time of three (3) hours.
i
I 43
(4) Any coaxial cable which will be retained from the existing system shall
be tested to ensure that the cable meets manufacturer specifications and
can pass 550 MHz.
SECTIONS 74-79. RESERVED.
SECTION 80. CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE) AND CONSTRUCTION-RELATED
REQUIREMENTS
A. In order to establish minimum uniform standards, the Council/franchising
authority requires TW to adopt the following minimal construction schedule and construction-
related requirements:
' (1) construct, install, maintain, and repair the multi-channel system in
accordance with the requirements noted in this Franchise;
(2) use streets and public ways as set forth in this Franchise;
' (3) where applicable, remove franchise r..,r:,..y from public streets, as set
forth in this Franchise;
' (4) adopt the construction standards as set forth in this Franchise;
(5) adopt the system expansion standards as set forth in this Franchise;
(6) adopt the construction schedule as referred to in this Franchise;
' (7) abide by and act in strict accordance with all current technical codes
adopted by the City or the State or the United States, as noted in this
Franchise; and,
(8) maintain all permits and licenses as noted in this Franchise.
' B. TW shall notify the City in writing of the commencement of the rebuild and
completion thereof.
C. The City shall have the right to inspect all construction and installation work
performed subject to the provisions of this Franchise Agreement, and shall make such tests as
it shall find necessary to ensure compliance with the terms of this Franchise and other
pertinent provisions of the law.
D. TW shall, prior to initiating construction, provide to the City for reasonable
' approval, a detailed construction plan indicating planned construction phases, strand maps,
and initial customer conversion schedule. TW shall notify the City, in a timely manner and, at
44
I
a minimum, at least forty-five (45) days prior to proof of performance testing of the rebuilt
system or sections of the rebuilt system.
E. TW shall construct the system in accordance with TW's construction manual
incorporated herein by reference, a copy of which will be maintained in the City Clerk's
office.
F. TW shall comply with FCC consumer compatibility rules and guidelines.
G. Subscribers shall not be charged by TW for conversion from the existing
system to the new system. So that customers will experience the least possible interruption of
service, TW shall perform the cutover to the new system as specified in Appendix B,
"Cutover Plan," attached hereto and incorporated by reference. TW will use its best efforts to
notify subscribers and the public in general of the construction schedule and cutover to the
rebuilt system.
SECTION 81. CONSTRUCTION OF GOOD QUALITY.
During any phase of construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of the multi-
channel system, TW shall use materials of good and durable quality and all such work shall be
performed in a safe, thorough, and reliable manner.
SECTION 82. CONDITIONS ON USE OF STREETS AND PUBLIC WAYS.
A. All wires, conduits, cable (coaxial, fiber, or functional equivalent) and other
r•„r;,. y and facilities of TW shall be so located, constructed, installed and maintained so as
not to endanger or unnecessarily interfere with usual and customary use, traffic and travel
' upon the streets, rights-of-way, easements and public ways of the City.
B. In the event TW's system creates a hazardous or unsafe condition or an
unreasonable interference with then at its own expense TW shall voluntarily, or
upon the request of the Council/franchising authority, remove that part of the system that
creates the hazardous condition from the subject
C. TW shall not place equipment where it will interfere with the rights of
owners or with gas, electric or telephone fixtures, or with water hydrants or mains, or with
' wastewater lift stations, or any other service or facility that benefits the City's or its residents'
health, safety, or welfare.
' D. TW, at either its own expense or that of a private contractor, shall protect
rights-of-way, easements, and support or temporarily disconnect or relocate in the same street
or other public way, any r. r. �,� of TW when necessitated by reason of:
' 1 traffic conditions;
' 45
(2) public safety;
' (3) a street closing;
' (4) street construction or re-surfacing;
(5) change or establishment of street grade;
' (6) installation of sewers, drains, water pipes, storm drains, lift stations,
force mains, power or signal lines; or,
' (7) an improvement, construction or repair related to the City's or its
residents' health, safety or welfare.
E. It shall be the responsibility of TW (acting alone or in conjunction with another
person) to locate and mark or otherwise visibly indicate and alert others to the location of its
underground cable (coaxial, fiber or functional equivalent) before employees, agents, or
independent contractors of any entity install cable in the marked-off area within forty-eight
(48) hours or immediately in emergency situations.
F. TW shall, on the request of any person holding a building moving permit,
temporarily remove, raise or lower the cable wires to allow the moving of the building. The
I
expense of temporary removal shall be paid by the person requesting it, and TW may require
payment in advance. TW shall be given not less than twenty-one (21) days notice of a
contemplated move to arrange for temporary wire changes.
G. For any new installations occurring after the effective date of this Franchise,
and at the time that TW rebuilds or upgrades the multi-channel system, all trunk or feeder
Icable (coaxial, fiber, or functional equivalent) shall be placed underground, when and if
utilities are placed underground. Further, where both power and utilities are presently
underground, multi-channel system cable shall also be placed underground.
' H. It shall be the responsibility of TW to comply with the most current FCC
technical standards.
' SECTION 83. FRANCHISED MCS PROVIDER'S DUTY TO REMOVE FRANCHISED
PROPERTIES FROM THE PUBLIC STREETS.
A. This section is applicable to TW required to maintain a franchise to operate
within the City.
B. Whenever the following occurs:
' (1) TW ceases to operate all or part of the multi-channel system for a
continuous period of six (6) months;
46
■
(2) TW ceases and fails to construct the multi-channel system outlined in
the application or proposal for renewal, or renewal franchise agreement;
(3) the Council/franchising authority elects not to renew this Franchise
pursuant to the provisions set forth in this Franchise; or,
(4) TW's franchise is revoked pursuant to the provisions set forth in this
Franchise;
Then -- unless the Cityor another MCSprovider uses such multi-channel system under
Y
' the continuity provisions outlined in this Franchise, TW shall promptly remove its multi-
channel system property from the streets, public ways, and private property located within the
City.
C. If not removed voluntarily by TW, then the Council/franchising authority may
notify TW that if removal of the property is not accommodated within two hundred seventy
' (270) days, or substantial progress towards removal is not made within two hundred ten (210)
days, then the Council/franchising authority may direct officials or representatives of the City
to remove TW's system property at that franchised MCS provider's expense. The performance
' and/or construction bond, irrevocable letter of credit, cash deposit, or full faith and credit
guarantee required as set forth in this Franchise shall be available to pay for such work.
' D. If officials or representatives of the City remove TW's system property, and
TW does not claim the property within ninety (90) days of its removal, then the
Council/franchising authority may take whatever steps are available under State law to declare
the property surplus and sell it, with the proceeds of such sale (if permitted by State law)
going to the City.
' E. When TW removes its multi-channel system property from the streets, public
ways and private property located within the City, TW shall, at its own expense and in a
manner approved by the Council/franchising authority, replace and restore such public or
' private property in as good a condition as before the work causing the disturbance was done.
SECTION 84. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS.
A. Methods of construction, installation, maintenance and repair of any multi-
channel system shall comply with the most current editions of the National Electrical Safety
Code and the National Electric Code as affects the construction, installation and maintenance
of electrical supply and communication lines and attachments and supports. To the extent that
these are inconsistent with other provisions of a franchise or State or local law, then the State
or local law shall apply.
' B. All construction, installation, maintenance and repair shall treat the aesthetics
of the property as a priority, shall not substantially affect the appearance of the structure, and
I
1 47
shall not be installed on the bias across the property or any side of a residence or other
structure without the property owner's permission.
C. If requested by the owner of the all underground drops shall follow
(to the greatest extent possible) I,..��,�.: lines, and cross r..�r:..:y only at right angles, unless
otherwise permitted by the property owner, required due to the physical characteristics of the
subsurface, or required under City, State, or Federal rules. Property owners are to be notified
by TW prior to new construction of this drop construction option.
D. For existing multi-channel system construction, installation and repair, the
provisions of Subsections (C) and (D) of this section shall apply only at the time a scheduled
upgrade or rebuild of TW's multi-channel system is actually commenced. For newly served
areas, then the provisions of Subsections (C) and (D) of this section shall apply at the time of
initial construction and/or installation.
SECTION 85. SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE FOR FRANCHISED MCS
PROVIDERS
A. This section is applicable to TW.
B. If TW does not abide by the system construction schedule, the matter shall be
handled in the manner allowed under this Franchise.
SECTION 86. SYSTEM EXPANSION FOR M.
A. The Council/franchising authority recognizes that one of its primary purposes in
the franchising process is to ensure that the widest diversity of programming sources be
available to the greatest number of City residents.
B. TW shall adhere to the following minimum guidelines for any system
expansion.
C. TW's service areas is the corporate limits of the City of Wichita Falls,
including all territory thereafter annexed by the City. TW shall provide full cable service to all
homes served on the effective date of this Franchise.
D. Grantee shall extend its cable system to other portions of the Franchise area
pursuant to the following requirements:
(1) Grantee shall extend its cable system and make cable service available to
every existing residential area within the Franchise area which is
unserved by another cable system whenever density of at least twenty
(20) residential dwelling units as later defined per cable mile (or any
;..onate amount thereof measured over a shorter or longer
distance) is realized, as measured from the nearest portion of existing
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facilities of Grantee's cable system in the Franchise area. For purposes
' of this section, density per cable mile shall be computed by dividing the
number of residential dwelling units in the area by the length, in miles
or fractions thereof, of the total amount of aerial or underground cable
necessary to make service available to the residential dwelling units in
such area. The cable length shall be measured from the nearest point of
access to the then-existing system, and located within the public streets
or other public r.,r:. y. The total cable length shall exclude the drop
cable necessary to service individual subscriber premises.
(2) Grantee will make cable service available at the regular installation
charge (if a regular installation charge is established by Grantee) to any
person, including but not limited to residents and commercial
' establishments, requesting cable service if the connection to the person's
premises requires no more than a standard 150 foot drop measured from
the then-existing system. If the connection to the person requires more
' than a 150 foot drop, then said person shall be required to pay for the
plant extension on a time and materials basis.
' (3) When required to extend service in accordance with the terms of this
section, grantee shall extend service to any person who requests it
' within seven (7) days of the request, where service can be provided by
activating or installing a standard drop of 150 feet or less, and with
respect to aerial or underground installations of greater length, in
accordance with the schedule set forth below.
(a) For aerial installations of the following specified lengths,
' extension shall be completed within the time periods described,
provided that all permits necessary from the City or any other
person are issued expeditiously:
' (i) from 151 feet to one-half (1/2) mile, thirty (30) days
from customer request;
(ii) from one-half (1/2) mile to one and one-half (1-1/2)
miles, sixty (60) days from customer request; and
(iii) more than one and one-half (1-1/2) miles six (6) months
from customer request.
(b) For underground installations of the following specified lengths,
extension shall be completed within the time periods described,
provided that all permits necessary from the City or any other
person are issued expeditiously and that the ground is not frozen
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or in a condition that other vise would require extraordinary
restoration or other work:
(i) from 151 feet to one-half (1/2h) mile, sixty (60) days
from customer request;
(ii) from one-half (1/2) mile to one and one-half (1-1/2)
miles, ninety (90) days from customer request; and
(iii) more than one and one-half (1/2) miles, six (6) months
from customer request.
(4) In any residential area which is unserved by an existing cable system and
which has fewer residential dwelling units per cable mile than the
minimum density per cable mile set forth in subsection D(1) of this
Section, Grantee shall in any event extend its cable system and make
cable service available in such area upon request in any case where the
developer or resident of such area agrees to pay for a portion of the
labor costs incurred and materials used in making the extension in
accordance with the terms of this subsection. Under such cost sharing
plan, Grantee shall contribute an amount equal to the construction costs
of such extension per mile, multiplied by the length of the extension in
miles, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which equals so the
number of actual potential subscribers per mile at the time of the request
and the denominator of which equals twenty (20). The developer or
residents of such area requesting cable service shall bear that remainder
of the total construction costs.
E. As used in this section the term "construction costs" means the actual turnkey
cost to construct the entire extension, including electronics, pole make-ready charges, and
labor, but excluding the standard house drop.
F. As used in this section, the term residential dwelling unit means each
commercial establishment that accommodates the living quarter of one (1) family, and/or a
home, house, building, or other structure that normally accommodates the living quarters of
one (1) family, and each apartment, condominium, or co-operative unit that normally
accommodates the living quarters of one (1) family in any multiple-unit building or complex
of multiple-unit buildings; provided, however, that if the Grantee has not been granted the
authority by an owner or association of owners to extend its facilities to individual apartments,
condominiums, and co-operative units within the interior of such multiple-unit buildings or
complex of multiple-unit buildings, then any such multiple-unit building or complex of
multiple-unit buildings shall be considered a single residential dwelling unit.
G. Business extensions. Grantee shall make cable service available to every
business requesting service in the franchise area which is within 250 feet of the cable system
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for the normal installation charge. If the connection to a business requesting service is more
' than 250 feet, then said business shall be notified of the cost of receiving cable service and
upon agreement to receive service shall be required to pay for the plant extension beyond 250
feet on a time and materials basis.
' SECTION 87. PERMITS AND LICENSES.
' TW shall obtain, at its own expense, all permits and licenses required by law, rule,
regulation, or ordinance, and maintain the same, in full force and effect, for as long as
required.
SECTION 88. SYSTEM FEATURES
A. In constructing, operating and maintaining the system, TW shall at all times
comply with this Franchise and all applicable laws.
B. Equipment used for the distribution system shall be new (with the exception of
coaxial cable specified below) and of good and durable quality and be serviced and repaired
on a regular basis, and shall at all times be of equal or better quality than the equipment listed
in Appendix C, "System Equipment." In cases of equipment replacement not covered above,
and in the case of headend and reception facilities, such equipment shall be of equal or better
quality than the equipment being replaced. Coaxial cable in use on the effective date of this
Franchise may be used in the rebuild if it is tested and meets manufacturer specifications. The
headend reception facilities shall be upgraded to current technological standards as set forth in
' Appendix E.
C. During the rebuild, TW shall audit and test all subscriber drops as specified in
' Appendix D, "Subscriber Drop Testing," attached hereto and made apart hereof. All drops not
meeting the standards of the National Electric Code, the TW cable performance specifications
and the FCC technical specifications shall be replaced during the rebuild. Such subscriber
drop audit shall be completed concurrent with the completion of the rebuild.
D. TW shall provide the headend equipment as specified in Appendix E, "Headend
Technical," in.,.,.r...dted by reference, a copy of which shall be maintained in the office of the
City Clerk
' E. The system configuration shall include earth stations adequate throughout the
life of this Franchise, to receive signals from operational communications satellites that
predominately carry programming services available to cable systems.
' F. Upon completion of the rebuild, TW shall maintain a status monitoring system
to all fiber optic nodes.
' G. Upon the request of the City, TW shall interconnect the access channels and the
institutional network to the neighboring cable communications systems, provided that the
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respective cable company and franchising authority allow such interconnection. The cost for
such interconnection shall be borne by the parties or party requesting such interconnection of
the City and TW.
H. TW shall make available 750 MHz capable subscriber terminals to all
subscribers in Wichita Falls within six (6) months of the completion of the rebuild. Such
subscriber terminals shall be equal to, or better than, the specifications and capabilities listed
in Appendix F, "Subscriber Terminal Specifications," attached hereto and incorporated by
reference. All subscriber terminals described in this paragraph shall provide picture and audio
deletion of services not purchased by a specific subscriber.
I. TW shall provide detailed information written in "plain English" to consumers
and make available to all sellers of VCR's on how VCR's can be utilized in conjunction with
the cable system, TW shall also provide at a reasonable cost, "kits" of the necessary
equipment for subscribers to hook-up subscriber-owned VCR's.
J. TW shall allow subscribers to purchase or rent converters from other vendors
as provided in FCC rules. TW shall provide detailed information written in "plain English" to
consumers and make available to all sellers of converters the items necessary for converter
compatibility with TW's cable communication system.
K. TW shall install and/or maintain internal wiring for subscribers. TW may own
the internal wiring or, at the subscriber's discretion, the subscriber may install, own, maintain
or have other vendors install, own, and/or maintain internal wiring which meets FCC and
other applicable standards.
L. TW shall make remote control units available to subscribers. TW may provide
remote control units to subscribers as a part of its package of services. TW shall allow
subscribers to purchase or rent remote control units from other vendors as provided in FCC
rules. TW shall provide detailed information written in "plain English" to consumers and
have available for sellers of remote controls the items necessary for compatibility with TW's
cable communications system.
M. TW shall provide subscribers with parental control devices so that parents can
lock out channels that they desire to have such control over. Such devices on addressable
converters shall block both the video and the audio portion of such channels to the extent that
both are unintelligible.
N. TW shall perform all system tests and maintenance procedures as required by
the FCC, this Franchise, and in accordance with TW's standards of good operating practice
and the National Cable Television Association's test procedure guidelines.
O. The cable communications system permitted to be installed and operated
thereunder shall be installed and operated in conformance with this Franchise and FCC rules
and regulations. Any FCC technical standards related to the cable communications system
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and facilities shall be deemed to be regulations under this Franchise Agreement. At such time
' as the FCC does not regulate technical standards, the relevant manufacturers standards shall be
utilized.
' P. At least twelve (12) hours before any planned shutdown, when possible, TW
shall give notice on the message channel of maintenance or major equipment change-outs
which result in loss of service to a neighborhood or larger area.
Q. TW shall provide a standard identification document to all employees, including
employees of subcontractors, who will be in contact with the public. Such documents shall
' include a telephone number that can be used to verify identification. In addition, TW shall use
its best efforts to clearly identify all personnel, vehicles, and other major equipment that are
operating under the authority of TW.
IUpon completion of the rebuild, the system will provide stereo television
R. pY
signals for those broadcast, satellite, and locally originated services which transmit them,
excluding alpha-numeric, news and sports services.
' SECTION 89. STATE OF THE ART.
A. The Grantee shall construct, install, operate and maintain its system in
accordance with the highest standards of the art of cable communications, such standards to
include, at a minimum, but not be limited to the following:
(1) The system will be spaced to permit a minimum of 750 MHz operation
and will be compatible with cable-ready television sets, except for those
services requiring the use of an addressable converter.
(2) The Grantee shall maintain its system facilities in a manner which will
continue to enable it to add new services and associated equipment as
they are developed, available, and proved marketable to subscribers.
' The new services and associated equipment will be added to the system
facilities when they are provided in any other similarly-sized market and
' proved economically viable, and are owned by the Grantee or parent
company and/or owned by other operators in the State of Texas and
adjacent states, excluding experimental and pilot projects, and such
' services and associated equipment can be offered on the Grantee's
system in an economically viable manner (that is, Grantee will be able
to earn a profit over the remaining term of this Franchise from the
provision of such service or equipment).
SECTIONS 90 - 94. RESERVED.
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SECTION 95. COUNCILIFRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S POLICY WITH RESPECT
TO SAFETY REQUIREMENTS.
A. The Council/franchising authority requires that TW's construction, operation,
and maintenance of the multi-channel system meet certain threshold safety levels which are
designed to protect the public and lessen the likelihood of interruption of multi-channel
service.
B. Consequently, the Council/franchising authority requires TW to adopt the
following safety requirements:
(1) emergency alert override activation in the manner set forth in this
Franchise;
(2) minimum standby power as noted in this Franchise;
(3) the provision of an all audio emergency alert service in the manner
noted in this Franchise;
(4) implementing a periodic preventative maintenance program as set forth
in this Franchise;
(5) follow all FCC rules and regulations concerning maximum cumulative
leakage index (CLI) limits; and,
(6) comply with and abide by any construction, safety or fire coda as noted
in this Franchise.
SECTION 96. EMERGENCY ALERT.
A. The City requires TW, as a means of protecting the health, safety and welfare
of the public and of communicating with the public, to provide a emergency alert service that:
provides effectively instantaneous access throughout the system;
- provides an alert notification for emergency situations;
- is tied directly into the local Emergency Operation Center site.
B. TW shall within six (6) months of the execution of this agreement, install and
fully activate an all-channel audio emergency alert system that will permit the City to override
the audio of all active cable channels in order to make emergency announcements to
subscribers. TW shall continue to provide a dedicated telephone line from the City's
Emergency Operation Center to the emergency alert system for the instantaneous transmission
of emergency messages throughout the system. Persons to be provided with access codes shall
be selected by the City. TW and the City shall comply with all emergency alert regulations of
the Federal Communications Commission.
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C. The Council/franchising authority requires TW to provide the necessary
bandwidth to fully and completely cooperate with the CounciUfranchising authority in all
matters related to the provision of the service, including making the public aware of the
availability of the service and the need for periodic testing.
SECTION 97. PROVISIONS TO ALERT SUBSCRIBERS IN THE EVENT OF AN
EMERGENCY; STANDBY POWER.
A. In order that subscribers may be alerted in the event of an impending, imminent
or actual, natural or man-made emergency, then TW shall ensure that the multi-channel
system providing multi-channel service to all, or part, of the City is designed so as to permit
an authorized official of the City to override the audio portion of all channels, by touch-tone
phone (or functional equivalent) from any location.
B. In addition to any other requirements listed in this section, TW shall:
(1) designate a channel which will be used for emergency broadcasts of both
audio and video (this channel need not be solely used for emergency
broadcasts, and may in fact be used for any lawful purpose);
(2) inform subscribers by crawl or otherwise of the designated emergency
channel on a periodic basis (not less than twice a month);
(3) maintain all channel video blanking capability to facilitate the needs of
hearing and sight-impaired customers;
(4) will allow the City to test the emergency override system as deemed
necessary by the City;
(5) ,k, with the City on the use and operation of the emergency alert
override system; and,
(6) develop a plan (with the City's concurrence) in order to provide
continuity of multi-channel service, and response to service calls in the
event of a natural or man-made emergency.
' C. As one method of providing continuity of multi-channel services in the event of
a natural or man-made emergency, TW shall, unless exempted by the Council/franchising
111 authority, have the capacity for three (3) hour automatically activated standby power on all
trunk and feeder cable, and all headends, hubs, and receive sites associated with the
distribution of cable service to and throughout the City.
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' ss
SECTION 98. IMPLEMENTATION OF A PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
PROGRAM.
A. It shall be the duty of TW to devise and implement a periodic preventive
maintenance program for the multi-channel system in order to ensure that there is no material
degradation of the multi-channel system that would affect the citizens' health, safety and
welfare, or negatively affect the quality of multi-channel services being provided.
B. TW will comply with the preventive maintenance program specified in
Appendix G, "Preventative Maintenance Program," attached hereto and incorporated by
reference.
SECTION 99. CONSTRUCTION, FIRE AND SAFETY CODES.
A. TW shall construct, operate, maintain, repair, remove, replace, or restore the
multi-channel system in strict compliance with all current technical codes adopted by the
Council/franchising authority, the State, or the United States.
B. The codes referred to specifically include, but are not limited to, construction,
fire and safety, and zoning codes.
SECTIONS 100-104. RESERVED.
SECTION 105. ALTERNATIVE USER CHARGE.
A. This section is applicable if TW has had its franchise ruled unconstitutional,
unenforceable, or invalid. The provisions concerning franchise fees shall be applicable for
TW.
B. Where not specifically prohibited by Federal or State law, and as an alternative
to the imposition of a franchise fee as set forth in this Franchise, the Council/franchising
authority may impose and collect a charge from TW for the use by such provider of the
streets, rights-of-way, easements, and public ways of the City.
C. The alternative user charge shall be based on the following mathematical mode:
(1) determine the present value of all public streets, rights-of-way,
easements, and public ways of the City in which are located multi-
channel system facilities and equipment of TW;
(2) take the average percentage increase in land appraisals within the City
(as determined by the Property Appraiser for the City), for the five
preceding years;
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1
(3) take the average percentage increase for the five preceding years and use
' it to determine the dollar amount of property value increase for the
remaining term of this Franchise (if no franchise applicable, then use
five years);
(4) add the present value to the dollar amount of property value increase for
the remaining term of this Franchise (if no franchise applicable, then use
111 five years);
(5) divide the adjusted value by the remaining number of years on the term
of this Franchise (if no franchise applicable, then use five years);
(6) multiply that figure by five (5%) percent to arrive at the annual user
charge that is to be collected from TW.
For purposes of illustration only, the formula reads as follows:
present value, = (plus) dollar amount of
' property increase for remaining term of
the franchise (based on average
percentage increase of land appraisals
for past years of franchise term),
divide the adjusted value by the
remaining years on the term of the
franchise, multiply that figure by five
percent (5 %), = (equals) the annual
alternative user charge.
111 D. The Council/franchising authority adopts such an alternative user charge in
order to receive fair compensation for the affected MCS provider's use of the public streets
and public ways if such compensation cannot be obtained by imposing a flat percentage fee on
such MCS provider's annual gross revenues. However, an affected MCS provider may agree
to an alternative charge that is based on a flat percentage of gross revenues, as long as that
' charge does not exceed five (5%) percent of an affected MCS provider's annual gross
revenues.
1 E. Also, recognizing that an alternative user charge may affect TW, please note
that this Franchise Agreement may contain express language which details a different method
or manner to handle a situation in which franchise fees as historically calculated (as a
percentage of gross revenues) are ruled unconstitutional, or unenforceable, in order to protect
and preserve the City's source of revenue and compensation for the use of the public rights-of-
i way.
F. It is expressly understood that a franchise fee and an alternative user charge will
not be imposed on TW at the same time for the same period.
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G. An affected MCS provider shall at no time be charged or obligated to pay an
alternative user charge that exceeds five (5%) percent of such provider's gross revenues (as
defined by this- Franchise) for any particular reporting period. In the event that the alternative
user charge does exceed five (5%) percent of gross revenues, then such alternative user charge
shall be reduced to reflect an amount not greater than the five (5%) percent cap.
H. TW shall pay twenty-five (25%) percent of the alternative user charge within
fifteen (15) days of the end of each quarter.
SECTION 106. FRANCHISE REQUIRED; EXCEPTION.
A. Except as provided in Subsections (B) and (C) and (D) of this section, neither TW
or other MCS provider shall be permitted to construct, operate or maintain the multi-channel
system which requires the laying or positioning of cable (coaxial, fiber or functional
equivalent) across the rights-of-way of the City, without having first obtained a franchise, and
then entering into a franchise agreement with the City.
B. Pursuant to the CCPA, a local government may own and operate the multi-
channel system classified as a cable system. Consequently, should the Council/franchising
authority directly or indirectly, through any legal means available to the Council/franchising
authority, decide to purchase, acquire, construct, lease, control, or otherwise own a cable
system within the territorial limits of the City, then the Council/franchising authority shall not
be required to submit a proposal for, or receive, a franchise in order to construct, operate, and
maintain a cable system within the geographical limits of the City.
C. It is the intent of the Council/franchising authority that as a matter of policy all
MCS provider franchises shall contain substantially similar minimum terms and conditions.
D. The Council/franchising authority, to the extent permitted by law, shall always
have the right to grant or deny a franchise as may be deemed in the public interest.
SECTION 107. AUTHORITY AND GRANT OF NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISES.
A. Consistent with Section 621(a)(1) of the CCPA (codified at 47 USC 541), the
Council/franchising authority may award one (1) or more non-exclusive multi-channel service
franchises within its geographical limits.
B. A franchised MCS provider shall be selected as part of a public proceeding and
hearing which affords due process to both the City and the applicant, and after which, if the
applicant is selected as a franchised MCS provider, then such applicant will enter into a
franchise agreement with the City, pursuant to the provisions of Federal, State and local laws
and regulations.
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C. The City hereby authorizes TW, subject to the terms and conditions of this
Franchise, and the MCS Ordinance (#119-92) to use and occupy public streets and r.upciLf
within the City to construct, operate and maintain a cable system to provide cable service and
such additional services as TW may legally provide.
SECTION 108. EXTENT OF GRANT OF FRANCHISE.
A. Upon an award of a franchise, and the subsequent execution of this Franchise
agreement, an MCS provider required to obtain and maintain a franchise may construct, erect,
install, maintain, operate, repair, replace, remove, or restore the multi-channel system within
the geographical limits set forth in its respective franchise agreement.
B. The franchised multi-channel system may be located in, upon, along, across,
over, and under the streets, rights-of-way, easements, and public ways of the City.
C. If necessary, the responsibility of obtaining easements on private
(including privately owned utility or street light poles) shall be that of a franchised MCS
provider.
D. A franchised MCS provider, through a separate pole or utility easement
agreement with an affected utility, may locate the multi-channel system on, or within, the
r-�r. .1 of such utility company. This provision specifically includes MCS providers
classified as cable operators.
SECTION 109. TERM OF FRANCHISE.
A. The term of the Franchise shall be for a period of ten (10) years from the
effective date, unless sooner terminated as provided in this Franchise, at which time it shall
expire and be of no further force and effect. The term of said Franchise shall be extended for
five (5) years from the end of the ten (10) year term in the event the following two conditions
are met. First, TW shall have complied with the material terms and conditions of this
Franchise over the term prior to action by Council in this matter. Second, TW and the City
shall mutually agree upon any state-of-the-art upgrades pursuant to Section 89.A.(2) and
additional levels of funding for the government access channel not to exceed twice the level of
funding specified in Section 121(B) of this agreement.
B. Within ninety (90) days after the first day of the seventh year of the franchise
term, TW shall provide notice by certified letter to the City that it seeks the five (5) year
renewal. Such notice shall include TW's statement that it has compiled with the material
terms and conditions of this Franchise, and has met the second criteria for renewal described
in Section (A) above, and any information TW may provide in support of its request.
C. Within ninety (90) days of receipt from TW, the City shall review the notice
and supporting information provided by TW and shall notify TW in writing of its intention to
either grant and renewal or if the City contends TW has failed to comply with the material
terms and conditions of this Franchise or has failed to comply with the state-of-the-art and
59
access requirements specified in Section (A) above. If the City fails to notify TW within the
ninety (90) day period, the five (5) year renewal shall be deemed to be granted and no further
action by the City or TW shall be required.
D. If the City contends that TW has failed to comply with this Franchise or has not
complied with state-of-the-art and access provisions specified in Section (A) above, it shall
present written documentation to TW and TW shall have thirty (30) days in which to cure any
such failure as may be specified by the City or to provide evidence showing why the City's
claims should not be considered in granting the renewal. The City shall present written
documentation to the City Council, including, but not limited to, the information supplied by
TW, as required by the City, no later than one hundred twenty (120) days after TW
notification that the City contends that TW has not complied with the material terms and
conditions of this Franchise and/or the state-of-the-art and access requirements specified in
Section (A) above. Upon receipt of the documentation and evidence from TW, the City
Council shall schedule a public hearing after receipt of the documentation and evidence. At
such public hearing, TW shall have the right to present its documentation and evidence in
support of its position.
E. If, after reviewing all documentation, the City Council decides TW has
complied with the material terms and conditions of this Franchise, and complied with the
access requirement specified in Section (A) above, the five (5) year renewal shall be awarded.
If the City Council decides TW has not complied with the material terms and conditions of
this Franchise or the requirements of Section (A) above, it shall adopt a resolution stating the
same. If such a resolution is adopted, TW has the right to contest in a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the City Council's action.
F. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any failure to comply which has been cured by
TW shall not be used as a failure to comply under this section, unless such failures create a
pattern of non-compliance.
G. If an initial franchise or renewal franchise is for a period of six (6) years or
less, then this Franchise Agreement shall detail the reasons for granting the shorter franchise
term.
H. The reasons for a franchise term of six (6) years of less include, but are not
limited to, the following:
(1) multiple or repeated violations of the prior franchise agreement;
(2) multiple or repeated violations of this Franchise, or any mandated
provisions of the CCPA;
(3) a continuing and documented pattern of substandard or non-responsive
service;
(4) reckless disregard for the safety and welfare of the citizens of the City;
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L
-- (5) failure to comply with any construction, rebuild, or upgrade schedule;
(6) failure to timely pay in their entirety any franchise fees or taxes, or
other charges due to the City.
I. The Council/franchising authority reserves the right to grant a franchised MCS
provider a variable franchise term (wherein the initial or renewal term may be extended by up
to three [3] years, not to exceed fifteen [15] years total) upon the franchised MCS provider
attaining an excellent rating during the course of a periodic performance evaluation.
J. Should the highest court of the Nation or State invalidate, void as unenforceable
or unconstitutional, the concept of a franchise or franchise duration, then the
Council/franchising authority may adopt emergency rules and regulations in order to preserve
and protect the rights and duties of both the Council/franchising authority and any franchised
MCS provider. During the interim, the invalid franchise may be considered (unless prohibited
by the State) and interpreted in the same manner and fashion as a business license. Upon the
adoption of emergency rules, the Council/franchising authority and TW should enter into a
new agreement which describes under which terms and conditions the system may be
operated, and under what circumstances TW may forfeit its right to operate the multi-channel
system within all or part of the City. Nothing herein shall supersede Section 113, Default of
Franchise; Revocation, Termination or Cancellation of Franchise.
SECTION 110. APPLICATION FOR FRANCHISE; APPLICATION FEE.
A. Consistent with Federal law, the Council/franchising authority may develop
rules and regulations with respect to the submission and processing of applications for an
initial franchise or franchise renewal. Such rules and regulations shall primarily be aimed at
determining the legal, financial, technical, and character qualifications of the applicant.
SECTION 111. FRANCHISE FEES.
A. TW, after the date this Franchise becomes effective, will pay to the City for the
privilege and use of the streets, rights-of-way, easements, and public ways, and other facilities
of the City in the operation of the multi-channel system, and for the City's supervision thereof
during the term of this Franchise, a sum of five (5%) percent of annual gross revenues derived
from the provision of cable services for the term of this Franchise. In addition, TW shall pay
to the City five (5%) percent of the gross annual revenues derived from the provision of
services other than cable television over the system until December 31, 1997. After
December 31, 1997, TW shall pay to the City that percentage of its annual gross revenue
derived from the provision of services other than cable television over the system which is
equal to the highest percentage of gross revenues for the provision of equivalent services
which is paid or due to the City by any other person.
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B. If the FCC, Congress or other governmental entity with authority over multi-
channel service ever allows a governmental entity or Council/franchising authority to increase
the franchise fee beyond five (5%) percent, then the Council/franchising authority shall have
the authority to increase the franchise pass-through fee up to ten (10%) percent, if allowed by
law.
C. It is intended that the franchise fees will promote the health, safety, and welfare
of the citizens of the City. Therefore, the five (5%) percent franchise fee shall be deposited in
the general revenues of the City unless specifically authorized elsewhere.
D. TW shall file with the Council/franchising authority, within ninety (90) days
after the expiration of each of TW's fiscal quarters, a detailed financial and revenue statement
clearly showing the gross revenues received by TW during the preceding quarter and certified
by a certified public accountant or officer of TW attesting to the accuracy, completeness, and
veracity of the revenue figures. Such statement shall be in the form and format approved by
the Council/franchising authority, in accordance with acceptable accounting principles. Such
statement shall include revenue from whatever source, directly or indirectly derived from, or
allowed, or caused to be derived from, or applicable to the operation of the multi-channel
system, or the provision of any multi-channel service by or to the multi-channel system, for
those revenues and revenue sources applicable to or affecting the franchise fee or the
computational base for the franchise fee. Revenue will be -;.r.,.�:,1 by service category, type,
and level showing computations and using incremental billing rates for all sources, levels,
tiers, and types of service and other revenue sources of all kinds and types.
E. Payment of the quarterly portion of the franchise fee shall be rendered to the
City at the time the financial and revenue statement is filed.
F. In the event that payment is not made within forty-five (45) days after the date
specified in this section, then TW may be declared in default of this Franchise, and this
Franchise may be revoked, terminated or canceled in the manner prescribed by this Franchise.
G. The Council/franchising authority reserves the right to audit TW's books, if the
Council/franchising authority deems it necessary in order to determine whether appropriate
franchise fees have been paid. If such audit discovers an underpayment of franchise fees that
exceeds two (2%) percent of the total fee paid for any reporting year, then TW shall
reimburse the City for the cost of such an audit. It is specifically understood that the right of
audit and re-computation of any and all amounts paid under a franchise fee shall always be
accorded to the Council/franchising authority. It is further understood that the
Council/franchising authority shall be bound by the result of any audit it performs or causes to
be performed, except for instances involving fraud.
H. If an audit or other research discovers that franchise fees have been either
underpaid or not paid for a period exceeding six (6) months from the original due date, then
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the City may seek full recovery of the underpaid or non-paid fees plus interest, not to exceed
fifteen (15%) percent or the maximum allowable under State law (whichever is lesser).
I. All annual reports due and pertaining to the payment of franchise fees will be
certified by an officer of TW, and such provider shall maintain records used in the preparation
of said report, to be produced in their originality and totality upon request or demand by the
Council/franchising authority for at least a five (5) year period.
J. No acceptance of any payment shall be construed as a release, or an accord, or
satisfaction of, any claim that the City might have for further or additional sums payable
under the terms of this Franchise, or for any other performance or obligation of TW
hereunder.
K. Payments of compensation made by TW to the City, pursuant to the provisions
of this Franchise, shall be considered in addition to, and exclusive of, any and all authorized
taxes, business license fees, other fees, other levies or assessments presently in effect, or
subsequently adopted.
L. A franchise fee does not include any items excluded by Section 622(g)(2)(D) of
the CCPA (codified at 47 USC 542(g)(2)(D).
M. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the
Council/franchising authority to impose a tax, fee or other assessment of any kind on any
person (other than TW) with respect to multi-channel service or other programming or
communications service provided by such person over the multi-channel system for which
charges are assessed to subscribers, but not received by TW. For purposes of illustration only,
this subsection shall include the situation(s) where a premium service directly bills a
subscriber, or TW merely acts as a collection agent for a premium service billing directly to a
subscriber, or where a person leases a channel for commercial use and sells advertising or
goods on that channel, and receives the money directly or through a third party.
N. For any twelve (12) month period, the fees paid by any person subject to
Subsection (M) who provides any such multi-channel service shall not exceed five (5%)
percent of such person's gross revenues derived in such period from the provision of such
service over the multi-channel system, or the maximum allowed by law at any time.
O. If at any time the highest court of the nation, or the highest court of the State,
invalidates, voids, or rules as unconstitutional the concept of franchise fees, then the
Council/franchising authority may impose an alternative user charge on TW, in the manner set
forth in this Franchise.
P. In light of Subsection (0) of this section, and recognizing that an alternative user
charge may affect TW, please note that this Franchise Agreement may contain express
language which details a different method or manner for collection of franchise fees should the
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way they historically have been calculated (as a percentage of gross revenues) be ruled
unconstitutional or unenforceable, so that the City's source of revenue and compensation for
the use of the public right-of-way may be protected.
SECTION 112. ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER OF FRANCHLSE.
A. Where required for operation, TW's franchise may not be assigned or transferred in
whole or in part by TW, without the prior express written approval by the Council/franchising
authority.
B. Any attempted assignment or transfer without such prior written consent shall
constitute a default of such franchise.
' C. In the event of such a default, the Council/franchising authority shall proceed
according to the procedure set forth in this Franchise. and any applicable State law.
D. At least ninety (90) days before a proposed assignment or transfer of TW's
franchise is scheduled to become effective, such franchised MCS provider shall petition in
writing for the Council/franchising authority's written consent for such a proposed assignment
or transfer.
E. The Council/franchising authority will not unreasonably withhold its consent to
such an assignment or transfer. - However, in making such a determination, the
Council/franchising authority may consider the following:
' (1) experience of proposed assignee or transferee (including conducting an
investigation of proposed assignee or transferee's service record in other
communities);
(2) qualifications of proposed assignee or transferee;
' (3) legal integrity of proposed assignee or transferee;
(4) financial ability and stability of the proposed assignee or transferee;
(5) if requested by the Council/franchising authority, submittals from the
' proposed assignee or transferee, on what, if any, changes it intends to
make in the operation and maintenance of the present multi-channel
system;
' (6) the corporate connection, if any, between TW and the proposed assignee
or transferee;
the economic viability or non-viability of the multi-channel system in
(� the future, based upon certain factors, including the impact of the
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purchase price on the City and/or the proposed assignee or transferee;
and,
(8) any other legitimate aspect of the proposed assignee's or transferee's
background which could affect the health, safety, and welfare of the
citizenry of City as it relates to the operation of the multi-channel
system.
F. Upon request, a copy of the completed sales agreement, or a functionally
equivalent instrument, between TW and proposed assignee or transferee shall be provided to
the Council/franchising authority, so that the Council/franchising authority may discover the
assumption of obligations by TW and proposed assignee or transferee with respect to the
multi-channel system. In lieu of the sales agreement, the Council/franchising authority may
accept an attested summary of obligations assumed by the above-referenced parties.
G. Before an assignment or transfer is approved by the Council/franchising
authority, the proposed assignee or transferee shall execute an affidavit, acknowledging that it
has read, understood, and intends to abide by both this Franchise and the applicable franchise
agreement.
H. In the event of any approved assignment or transfer, the assignee or transferee
shall assume all obligations and liabilities of the former franchised MCS provider, except as
noted in Subsection (I).
I. An assignment or transfer shall not relieve the former franchised MCS provider
of its liabilities under this Franchise Agreement until the assignment actually takes place, or
unless specifically relieved by Federal or State law, or unless specifically relieved by the
Council/franchising authority at the time an assignment or transfer is approved.
SECTION 113. DEFAULT OF FRANCHISE; REVOCATION, TERMINATION OR
CANCELLATION OF FRANCHISE.
A. When any event, act or omission (on the part of TW) occurs which represents a
violation of an integral and material provision of this Franchise, or compromises the corporate
character, or legal, financial or technical integrity and/or stability of the multi-channel system
or TW to such a degree that the interests of the subscribers and users are materially and
negatively affected, then such event, act or omission may be considered a major breach of this
Franchise. Under this circumstances, the Council/franchising authority shall notify TW in
writing of the specific breach, and direct TW to comply with all such provisions of its
proposal, Franchise Agreement, or this Franchise.
B. For illustrative purposes only, the events, acts and omissions include, but are
not limited to: bankruptcy, insolvency, failure to pay taxes or franchise fees (including the
alternative user charge if applicable), failure to receive written Council/franchising authority
approval for an assignment or transfer, or failure to abide by the integral and material terms
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and conditions of this Franchise Agreement, or integral and material provisions of this
Franchise. For purposes of this section, "integral" means a provision which either (1) affects
the ability of the customer to receive multi-channel service; or (2) affects the ability of the
Council/franchising authority to receive compensation for the use of its rights-of-way; or (3)
affects the ability of the Council/franchising authority to evaluate TW's performance in the
technical, financial, and legal aspects of the multi-channel system.
C. Where TW satisfactorily corrects any of the enumerated conditions within sixty
(60) days, then in no event shall the enumerated conditions be weighed against TW in any
subsequent review of franchise performance.
D. A copy of such notice of material breach shall be mailed to the surety on the
performance bond.
E. Within seventy-five (75) days after such written notice is mailed to TW, the
Council/franchising authority shall conduct a public hearing on the matter (unless State law
requires a different procedure in which the State procedure would control).
F. The Council/franchising authority shall provide written notice to a TW and the
surety of the time and place of said public hearing in a manner consistent with either State
law, or approved by the Council/franchising authority.
G. At the time of the hearing, TW may present information on the current status of
the alleged breach of this Franchise Agreement. If the situation has been resolved, or steps are
being taken to resolve the situation, then TW should present the information at the hearing.
H. If TW fails to attend the hearing and has not requested a continuance of the
hearing, then TW shall be deemed to have waived its right to a further continuation of the
matter, and may be declared in default of this Franchise Agreement.
I. After the public hearing, the Council/franchising authority may determine TW
to be in compliance and dismiss the matter, or may determine that TW has cured any non-
compliance and thereby dismiss the matter. However, the Council/franchising authority may
determine that an ordinance violation exists and remains uncured. Consequently, upon a
finding that TW violated an integral ordinance provision, or failed to cure an outstanding
ordinance violation, the Council/franchising authority may direct TW to take corrective action
within a specified period of time, or may declare TW in default of this Franchise Agreement
and thereafter may revoke, terminate, or cancel this Franchise, unless this franchised MCS
provider presents sufficient mitigating circumstances.
J. If the Council/franchising authority directs corrective action to take place
within a specified time or declares TW in default of this Franchise Agreement, then that
declaration shall be reduced to writing, and the notice of corrective action or default shall be
mailed to TW, and surety, within fifteen (15) days of the Council/franchising authority's
action.
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K. If within forty-five (45) days of the public hearing TW, or surety, does not take
significant action to rectify the breach, or submit a plan detailing how TW will eliminate the
breach, then the Council/franchising authority may revoke TW's franchise, and may notify
TW and surety forthwith, unless there are mitigating circumstances.
L. The Council/franchising authority reserves the right to assess any charges
incurred (including costs for consultants, witnesses, and hearing preparation) in a default
and/or revocation proceeding to TW.
SECTION 114. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS.
The Council/franchising authority is authorized to design a performance evaluation
procedure which periodically monitors compliance of TW with the terms and conditions of
this Franchise. Moreover, the Council/franchising authority may periodically review, and
examine whether TW financial, technical, legal, and character qualifications continue to meet
required operational, maintenance, and performance levels in order to ensure that identified
community needs are met and the uninterrupted provision of multi-channel services. Such
performance evaluations may be conducted every three (3) years during the franchise term,
and may be done as part of any required survey.
SECTIONS 115-119. RESERVED.
SECTION 120. SPECIFIC ADDITIONAL RULES FOR MCS PROVIDERS
CLASSIFIED AS CABLE OPERATORS.
il' A. In addition to any requirements contained within this Franchise, TW shall be
111 expected to abide by and comply with all applicable provisions of the Cable Communications
Policy Act of 1984 and its amendments.
B. The specific provisions of the CCPA include, but are not limited to, the
Ifollowing:
(1) cable channels for public, educational, or governmental use (Section 611
ICCPA - codified at 47 USC 531);
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(2) cable channels for commercial use (Section 612-47 USC 532);
(3) general franchise requirements (Section 621-47 USC 541);
I (4) franchise fees (Section 622-47 USC 542);
(5) regulation of rates (Section 623-47 USC 543);
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(6) regulation of services, facilities, and equipment (Section 624-47 USC
544);
(7) modification of franchise obligations (Section 625-47 USC 545);
(8) franchise renewal (Section 626-47 USC 546);
(9) conditions of sale of a franchise (Section 627-47 USC 547);
(10) subscriber privacy (Section 631-47 USC 551); and,
(11) equal employment opportunity (Section 634-47 USC 554).
C. Further, as an additional requirement, before the third anniversary of the
effective date of this Franchise, TW shall have designed and activated the multi-channel
system with a minimum capability or providing seventy-seven (77) full-time video channels.
SECTION 121. SPECIFIC ADDITIONAL PUBLIC, EDUCATIONAL, AND
GOVERNMENTAL RULES.
In order to develop and promote public access programming for the system's access
channels, TW hereby agrees to provide the following:
A. All active access channels shall be placed on the basic tier of service, unless
both parties mutually agree otherwise.
B. TW shall provide $175,000 for studio, portable and edit equipment for
government access production. TW shall provide funds for government access equipment
replacement and maintenance upon the reasonable request of the City, not to exceed the initial
grant. In addition, TW agrees to provide the City with $1,000 per year to support government
access related computer software. Such government access funds shall be provided by TW.
C. TW will provide forty (40) hours per year of video training to the Wichita Falls
Independent School District without charge. Requests for training must be made at least one
week in advance.
D. TW will provide, maintain, and replace studio and playback facilities for public
access use and provide staff and services for public access consistent with the facilities,
equipment, services and staff provided for such purposes by TW during the previous
Franchise term, as set forth in Appendix I, "Public Access Services and Facilities," attached
hereto and in,,,,.r.,.ated by reference.
E. TW will produce and cablecast at least 250 hours per year of original (non-
repeat), local programming concerning the City of Wichita Falls and activities and events
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therein, provided that current expenditures of $81,000 and any increase in costs consistent
with the level of inflation in any year shall be considered a part of the rate base under FCC
rules in effect on the effective date of this franchise. Prior to increasing rates based upon
increased costs above those contemplated herein, the Grantee shall consult with the City. The
City, in its discretion, may lower the number of hours of programming required herein to
avoid cost increases to the subscriber.
F. TW shall provide an appropriate converter for the.access channel designated for
closed circuit-programming to all municipal and educational locations receiving free drops and
TW shall provide up to an additional twenty (20) converts to individuals identified by the City
to receive closed-circuit programming. The necessary headend equipment for modulating,
scrambling, and cablecasting the closed-circuit signals shall also be provided by Time Warner
Entertainment-Advance/Newhouse Partnership. TW shall provide the technical assistance
required to transmit closed-circuit programming on the system.
G. TW shall construct and maintain transmission facilities from Kirby Middle
School, City Hall, MSU, School Administration, MPEC, and a new public library, if
constructed. TW agrees to provide digital, optical transmission packages for all origination
sites upon completion of the rebuild.
SECTION 122. THE COUNCIL/FRANCHISING AUTHORITY'S OBJECTIVE AS IT
RELATES TO THE PROVISION OF BROAD CATEGORIES OF VIDEO
PROGRAMMING AND SYSTEM SERVICES AFTER THE REBUILD.
A. The Council/franchising authority recognizes that under Section 624 of the
CCPA (codified at 47 USC 5440), the legal power of local government is severely restricted
in requiring and/or demanding that particular video programming or other services be
provided to subscribers over the multi-channel system.
B. Nevertheless, the Council/franchising authority recognizes that it should strive
to ensure that its citizens receive the widest and most diverse section of video programming
possible. TW agrees to provide diverse programming which reflects the various interests of
the residents of Wichita Falls, including minority, racial, and linguistic populations. TW
agrees that the provision of video programming to subscribers should include the following
broad categories:
(1) local broadcast stations as required by FCC;
(2) PEG programming on the lowest offered as specified in the Cable Act.
C. TW shall provide one free cable drop and free non-premium service to each
location already provided with a free drop, and at any City-designated locations in municipal
and/or educational buildings on a time and materials cost basis. All non-premium services and
closed circuit training programming shall be provided free of charge to all of these locations.
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Upon request by the City or the schools, each drop will be capable of supporting multiple
additional outlets.
D. All closed-captioned programming shall be re-transmitted by the system.
E. TW will offer "Cable in the Classroom" and guides, to the schools in the City
of Wichita Falls served by TW, free of charge, to the extent available to TW on the terms
similar to those on the effective date of this Franchise.
F. One access channel shall be made available for closed circuit institutional
programming.
SECTION 123. INSTITUTIONAL NETWORK.
A. TW agrees to construct, install and maintain an Institutional Network ("I-Net")
to the locations indicated in Appendix I attached hereto and entitled "Institutional Network
Locations." To the extent technically feasible, the I-Net shall be a part of the subscriber
network. The cutover to these sites shall be conducted so that, to the extent technically
feasible, no service is lost to those sites currently originating programming on the access
channels. The I-Net will utili7P the capacity of four activated fibers to each site as may be
required by the City and other non-commercial governmental and educational users throughout
the term. The governmental and educational users of the I-Net shall be responsible for all end
user equipment necessary to enable them to utili7P the I-Net. Time Warner agrees to provide
for routing redundancy to support the self healing properties of end user equipment. The
institutional network and each institutional network location connection specified by the City
shall meet the design specifications included in Appendix J, "Institutional Network Design
Specifications," attached hereto and incorporated by reference.
Both parties agree that Time Warner will not charge the non-commercial governmental
and educational users of the I-Net for its use except that these users will be responsible for the
payment of any fees imposed on Time Warner by another telecommunications service provider
based on the use of the I-Net (by way of example interconnect and access charges). Time
Warner shall not pass through to cable television subscribers any charge attributable to the use
of the I-Net by the non-commercial governmental and educational users, provided that this in
no way limits Time Warner's rights to externalize for rate regulations or other purposes the
amount of costs which it actually incurs in connection with the I-Net.
The I-Net shall be used only for non-commercial governmental and educational
purposes. The I-Net and any portion thereof may be connected with a site other than the I-
Net sites, (the I-Net sites being the locations specified in Appendix I and any other municipal
government or public education site in Wichita Falls, which is subsequently made part of the
I-Net) and may be used to transmit or receive a communication to or from any place other
than a site on the I-Net (the I-Net sites being the locations specified in Appendix I and any
other municipal government or public education site in Wichita Falls, which is subsequently
made part of the I-Net) only if Time Warner consents thereto, which consent may not be
denied unless Time Warner is willing to provide such connection or transmission at a charge
no greater than that which the City would pay any other party for such transmission or
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connection. However, nothing herein will prevent (1) the transmission of information
(including video) to or from or connection with any communication or informational system
of a governmental or non-commercial educational entity, or (2) connection with any
communication or informational system of a governmental or non-commercial educational
entity without the consent of Time Warner, or (3) connection with a City-owned
telecommunications facility which is used exclusively for non-commercial governmental and
educational purposes and which does not include any connection to any commercial
telecommunications facility (by way of example, a municipal traffic control system).
B. TW shall construct the connection from the existing I-net to the additional sites
listed in Appendix I, and any additional governmental or educational sites additional City sites
on an incremental materials cost basis. The parties agree that at the time of request, the City
may indicate if the additional cost for such connections will be borne by the City, a third
party, or be passed through to subscribers. For the purpose of this Franchise, incremental
material costs shall be defines as only that portion of the costs of the I-net incurred by the TW
in the installation of its facilities which exceed the rebuild capital cost of the cable system and,
but for the additional capacity provided upon request of the City, which the TW would incur
in its normal course of providing facilities for its own use and purposes. For example, the
City will be charged only the incremental material costs for additional fibers within TW's
common cable sheaths, where applicable, but there will no labor costs charges against the City
to construct such common cable sheaths. All non-incremental expenditures for construction,
installation and activation of I-net facilities beyond TW's planned cable plant will be charged
against the City at TW's direct costs for labor and materials.
C. Features incorporated into the system design and headend equipment shall
permit institutions to transmit programming via upstream, institutional channels to access
channels on the residential subscriber network.
D. The institutional network will be completed during the rebuild in conjunction
with the adjoining portions of the system. The TW will use its best efforts to activate the
return paths from the organizations operating access channels, as soon as possible during the
construction of the rebuild. Under normal operating conditions, TW shall respond to technical
problems on the institutional network within six (6) hours with the exception of public safety
or critical City communications. In such cases, TW shall respond immediately.
SECTIONS 124-128. RESERVED.
SECTION 129. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS - TAMPERING AND
UNAUTHORIZED RECEPTION OF CERTAIN SERVICES.
A. Consistent with Section 633 of the CCPA (codified as 47 USC 533), no person
shall intercept or receive or assist in intercepting or receiving any communications service
offered over the multi-channel system, unless specifically authorized to do so by TW, or as
may otherwise be specifically authorized by law.
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B. For the purpose of this section, the term "assist in intercepting or receiving"
' shall include the manufacture or distribution of equipment intended by the manufacturer or
distributor (as the case may be) for the unauthorized reception of multi-channel service as
noted in Subsection (A) of this section.
' C. Without security permission from TW, or making payment to TW, no person
shall be authorized to make any connection, whether physically, electrically, acoustically
inductively, or otherwise, with any part of an authorized or franchised multi-channel system
for the purpose of receiving or intercepting, or assisting others to receive or intercept, any
cable service provided lawfully by TW.
' D. No person shall be authorized to willfully tamper with, remove, or damage any
cable, wires, equipment, or facilities used for the distribution of multi-channel services.
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E. TW agrees to cooperate with the Counci Jfranchising authority in developing
and implementing a plan designed to control and eliminate the unauthorized reception of
certain cable services within the City.
SECTION 130. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Franchise shall take effect and be in full force from and after passage and
publication as provided by law, provided, however, vested rights relating to billings and the
City's rights to accrued Franchise fees shall not be affected thereby; and provided, further,
that any criminal proceedings commenced under or pursuant to said Franchise shall in no
manner be affected.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this franchise has been duly executed and delivered by or
on behalf of the parties hereto as of the effective date of Ordinance No. C{`� .
City of 'chits Falls, Texas
By:
Michael Lam, Mayor
Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse Partnership
By Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P.
Managing Partner
By:
Name: -#414-14 L • --7(-4E7-ei
Title: /-�—e4
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APPENDICES
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APPENDIX A
Consumer Standards
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VISTA_
A B L E V I S I O N 3225 Maurine Strut Wichita Falls, Texas 76305 817 855 5700 Fax 817 855 0465
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WICHITA FALLS CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS
I1. OFFICE AND TELEPHONE :
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A. Knowledgeable, qualified company representatives will be available
e to respond to
customer telephone inquiries Monday through Friday during normal business hours.
' Additionally, Vista Cablevision will staff telephones for supplemental hours based on
community needs.
IB. Under normal operating conditions, telephone answer gP time by a customer service
representative, including wait time, and the time to transfer the call, shall not exceed
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30 seconds.
Automated answering and distribution equipment will limit the number of routine rings to
I four or fewer.
These standards will be met no less than ninety percent of the time measured on an
I annual basis.
IC. Under normal operating conditions, the customer will receive a busy signal less than
three percent of the time that the cable office is open for business.
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D. Customer service center and bill payment locations will be open for transactions Monday
Ithrough Friday during normal business hours. Additionally, Vista Cablevision will be open
supplemental hours based on community needs.
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A DIVISION OF q lIUE OIAII■E ti SAILS
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' 2. Installations. Outages and Service Calls
Under normal operating conditions. each of the following
four standards will be met no less than 95% of the time
measured on an annual basis.
' A. Standard installations will be performed within seven
business days after an order has been placed. "Standard"
installations are up to 125 feet from the existing
distribution system.
S Excluding those situations beyond the control of the cable
operator. the cable operator will respond to service
' interruptions promptly and in no event later than 24
hours. Other service problems will be responded to within
36 hours during the normal work week.
C. The appointment window alternatives for installations.
service calls. and other installation activities will be (a)
' morning. (b) afternoon, or (c) all day during normal
business hours. Additionally, based on community needs.
1 cable systems will schedule supplemental hours during
which appointments can be set.
D. If. at any time an installer or technician is running late.
an attempt to contact the customer will be made and the
appointment rescheduled as necessary at a time which is
convenient for the customer.
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3. Communications, Bills and Refunds
' A. The cable company will provide written information in
each of the following areas at the time of installation and at
any future time upon request:
• products and services offered
'I . prices and service options
• installation and service policies
• how to use the cable service
a Bills will be clear, concise and understandable.
C. Refund checks will be issued promptly, but no later than
' the earlier of 45 days or the customer's next billing cycle
following the resolution of the request. and the return of
the equipment supplied by the cable company if service is
terminated.
D. Customers will be notified a minimum of 30 days in
' advance of any rate or channel change. provided
the change is within the control of the cable operator.
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APPENDIX B
Cutover Plan
April 25, 1995 A l p •
Wjcbuita Falls. TX Upgrade
• The planned upgrade area inside the city limits is approximately 404 miles of plant.
• A fiber rich plant will be overlaid on the existing coaxial cable system. The coaxial cable
system will be broken up into fiber node areas which will serve an average of 500 passings
per node. These node areas will consist of approximately five to six miles of coaxial plant
with an amplifier architecture of no greater than four trunk amplifiers and three line
extenders in cascade.
• Approximately 82 sheath miles of fiber optics cable will be used to interconnect all of the
fiber nodes to the system headend programming distribution point.
• Approximately 10/ of the existing coaxial cable will be replaced and an additional 5% of
new coaxial cable plant will be built to serve homes that are not presently passed.
T 9n Plan
1. Install fiber optic cable and new and replacement coaxial cables where necessary through out
the system.
2. Working our way from the extremities of the system back to the headend, replace all passives
and actives with new equipment one fiber node at a time. By starting at the extremities of the
system to connect fiber to the optical nodes as the passives and actives are replaced will keep
service interruptions to a minimum.
3. The existing programming lineup along with the additional new programming will be
transmitted on the fiber networks as each fiber node is activated.
4. Home terminals will be offered to customers and installed by Vista representatives with no
installation charge for the terminal installation. These representatives will also at the same
time explain the functionalities of the home terminal, and brief customers on all of the new
programming.
5. Any Vista Cablevision drop equipment that doesn't pass the new channels correctly will be
replaced at no charge to the customer. All drop fittings at the pole will be replaced when new
passives are installed.
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APPENDIX C
System Equipment
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T I M I W A R N [ R MEMORANDUM
CABLE
April 27, 1995
System Performance Specifications and Technical Standards
The Wichita Falls system will be upgraded to a fiber background system with three single-mode
fibers run to each node supporting an average of 500 passings per node. Two fibers will initially
be activated at 1310 rm wavelength, one for downstream services and one for upstream services.
All three fibers to each node will be spliced and tested at both wavelengths (1310 nm and 1550
nm) when plant is activated.
The coaxial cable plant will be activated downstream 54 MHz thru 750 MHz capable of providing
video, audio, data, and monitoring and control signals to the customers, and upstream 5 MHz thru
40 MHz capable of retrieving audio, data, and monitoring and control responses from the
customers.
The system will be in technical compliance with the Federal Communications Commission's
section 76 subpart K technical standards. Specifically, the system will meet or exceed all parts of
section 76.605 technical performance standards (note exception). The system will be designed
and set up to provide greater than 0 dbmv of signals on all video channels at the customers'
terminals of no more than two active outlets. A customer will be required to provide a residential
RF two-way amplifier for his/her use to provide adequate signals to the additional outlets at the
customers' terminals.
A standby generator will be installed at the systems' headend to sustain services to the customers
in the event of a utility power loss. Standby power supplies, with a minimum of 1.5 hours of
standby time, will be provided to all parts of the plant in the event of a utility power loss.
Historically, the majority of utility power losses are less than 20 minute duration.
Good engineering practices will be incorporated in the design of this system, quality materials will
be used in the equipment to withstand the environment it is required to operate in, and
professionalism will be maintained in all aspects of the construction and operation of the system.
• Ari(-co- 5 WtU 6.01 I 'fit rirathtrc LrGLC iir1 L. t•nA Nu, iuJ OuOu r. .o
Pctcriptiop of Uostrade Plat
• The system will be designed and upgraded to 750 MHz with a fiber-rich backbone to serve an
average of 500 passings per node.
• Three fibers are planned for each node, one used for the downstream services, one used for
upstream services, and one to be used for future services.
1 • Additional fibers will be installed to accommodate future growth at the system extremities.
• System will be activated two-way 5 to 42 MHz in order to utilize the full benefits of the
addressable terminal's features.
• The electronic equipme t installed for the fiber system will be General Instrument lasers and
receivers.
• The electronic equipment installed for the RF portion of the plant will be C-COR Flexnet.
• Alpha standby power supplies with status monitoring are planned to power each fiber node and
key areas that have a track record of frequent power outages.
• We anticipate a 2.5% cable replacement for defective trunk and distribution, and a 1.5%
addition of new trunk and distribution cables to accommodate ties and badcfeeds and reduce
electronics. With the inclusion of the 22 miles of new plant, this comes out to 9.25%. All new
cable added will be Trilogy MC2 500, 650 and 750.
• We anticipate there will be rework and rerouting of drop cables and replacement of in-home
devices that will not meet the upgrade bandwidth requirements. RG-6 type drop cable will be
used.
a • Magnavox 9000 series 1 GHz directional taps and passives will be used in the system.
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I APPENDIX D
Subscriber Drop Testing
April 25, 1995
Vista Cablevision Drop Replacement Plan for Upgrade
During the system upgrade we plan on replacing approximately 15% of the active drops because
of excessive cable attenuation at 750 MHz and rerouting of house drops. Customers will not
be charged for drop replacement or repairs made to the Vista Cablevision drops during this
upgrade. We anticipate that 25% of the house drop replacements will be in apartment complexes
due to only one distribution point at each building and long house drops causing excessive cable
attenuation at 750 MHz. Plans are to install additional distribution points at each building where
this situation exists and reduce the house drop lengths and attenuations.
The majority of the residential drops will perform at 750 MHz and will not require replacement.
We do not intend to remove or upgrade inactive drops during the system upgrade. The drops
that are not replaced will be upgraded when they are moved from the old taps to the new ones.
6
The following work will be done to upgrade the drops.
1. New connectors will be put on at the pole or pedestal.
2. A waterproof splice will be installed in place of a premium channel trap.
' 3. Security shield will be removed and locking terminators will be installed on
unused tap ports.
4. The drop will be checked for signal level and signal leakage with repairs made
where necessary.
5. Drop passives will be replaced if their bandpass is less than 750 MHz.
Replacements will have 1 GHz bandwidth.
6. Vista Cablevision's forward drop amplifiers will be replaced with two-way drop
amplifiers.
' 7. The drop grounding will be checked and corrected if found in non-compliance
with the NEC.
8. Cosmetic to drops will be made where ne
cessary.p
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APPENDIX E
Headend Upgrade
rime-Lb-Jb WtD 8:49 T l ME WARNER CABLE NATL. FAX NO. 303 649 8090 P. 0.?
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April 25, 1995
Wichita Falls. TX Headend Facility
• • Office Building will be expanded to provide 1200 square feet of floor space for program
processing electronics and a 600 amp electrical system with a 45 kW standby power
generator.
• Replace existing satellite antennas with a Simulsat antenna which looks at the entire North
American satellite arc simultaneously giving the system the capability of receiving
programming from all satellites now and in the future.
• Replace satellite receivers with Integrated Receiver Decoders for analog programming and
adding Digicipher Receivers for digital compression pay programming that will be provided.
• Add equipment to receive thirty channels of digital audio and the Sega Channel.
• Install equipment to offer an additional thirty channels of programming to Vista Cablevision
customers.
• Install a new emergency alert system that will provide both video and audio alert.
• Install addressable equipment to control levels of service to customers and offer impulse pay
per view.
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APPENDIX F
• Subscriber Terminal Specifications
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Jerrolw iMf ULbt iuuu senes baseband Converter
CFT 2000 With On-Screen Display
Specifications
MODEL CFT 20*# Differential Gain 10%(max.)
(*=1 way/2 way; Diierential Phase 10 degrees(max.)
N=output channel 3/4)
Scrambling Method Gated Sync Suppression or Dynamic
Input Frequency 54-550 MHz Gated Sync Suppression,Video
(excluding data carrier frequency) Inversion,Audio Privacy,Hamlin
HRC/IRC Frequency Compatibility
Assignments Downloaded On-Screen Display Character Size: 12 x 18 pixels
Number of Channels 82 channels per cable;one or Screen Size:
two cables 12 rows x 24 columns
Dual A/B Cable Switching Optional A/B switch Message/Barker Capacity:
(field upgradable) 14 pages
Channel Descriptors:
A/B Cable Indicator LED in front display 4 characters,maximum
Input Video Level 0 dBmV to+15 dBmV Parental Control by Channel 100%user-controlled offering
Input Sound Level -17 dBmV to+2 dBmV channel-by-channel selections
Data Carrier FSK Modulated FM Carrier Mechanical Security Std.:security screws;security pin;
Frequency 106.5 or 108.5 MHz uni-chassis construction
Bandwidth ±200 KHz standard FM Downloadable Parameters Output Channel
Level -15 dBmV Initialization Command
Video S/N 49 dB @ 0 dBmV input level Terminal Logical Address
System Site Code
Fine Tuning Automatic Time Out Period
AFT Capture Range t 300 KHz @ input level of 0 dBmV Terminal Configuration
Authorization Information
Output Frequency Accuracy t 150 KHz Barker Channel(s)
Return Loss: Consumer Feature Enable/Disable
Input 6 dB min. Subscriber Messaging
Output 8 dB min. Channel Descriptors
Spurious: Channel Cross Reference Map
Output -57 dBc max.,in band Decryption Key
Cross Modulation Distortion -56 dB(82 channels, Two-way System Compatibility Upgrade in field by addition
each @+15 dBmV) of STARVUE5 OR STARFONEJ
internal module
Composite Second Order -60 dB(82 channels,
Distortion each @+15 dBmV) Operating Temperature Range 59°F to 104°F(15°C to 40°C)
Second Order Distortion -60 dB(@+15 dBmV input level) Operating Humidity Range 5%to 95%(non-condensing)
Composite Triple Beat -65 dB(82 channels, AC Voltage 105 VAC to 125 VAC,60 Hz
Distortion each @+15 dBmV) Power Dissipation 16 Watts at 120 VAC
Converted Input Beats Surge Protection Surge protection provided on power
(With all Input Signals) -25 dB(82 channels, supply and RF ports
each @+15 dBmV)
Size 10.25'x 8.25"x 2.7'(LxWxH)
Hum Modulation Distortion 3 IRE (260.4 mm x 209.E mm
Output Level 10 to 15 dBmV x68.6 mm)
Isolation(Input/output) 70 dB min. Weight 5.5 lbs
NOTE:Specifications subject to change without notice.
® General Instrument
8-5
APPENDIX G
Preventative Maintenance Program
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'1 A pPErvOIX G
ATC NATIONAL DIVISION
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE POLICY
PURPOSE
' SCOPE
RESPONSIBILITIES
' POLICY
Section 1 . HEADENDS page #
1 . 1 HEADEND/HUB CHECKS 4
1 . 2 AD INSERTION 7
2 . PLANT
2 . 1 PLANT TEST POINTS 7
2 . 2 SWEEPING g
2 . 3 LEAKAGE 10
' 2 . 4 POWER SUPPLY 11
2 . 5 BONDING & GROUNDING 13
3 . OFFICE
' 3 . 1 DAILY PICTURE QUALITY CHECK 13
3 . 2 SYSTEM ENGINEER MONITORING 14
4 . CUSTOMER ' S RESIDENCE
4 . 1 INSTALLATION 14
4 . 2 SERVICE CALLS 14
5 . DOCUMENTATION
5 . 1 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION 15
5 . 2 RESPONSIBILITY CHECK LIST FORM 16
ATTACHMENTS :
ATC DROP SPECIFICATIONS
ATC CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
P .M. RECAP SHEET
A . T . C . RESPONSIBILITY CHECK LIST
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PURPOSE
In accordance with ATC Engineering policy E-5 and the
' ATC Goals the purpose of this policy is to:
' 1. Improve customer service and quality of our
product.
2 . Improve overall plant and equipment reliability.
3 . Increase the useful life of plant and equipment.
4 . Reduce operational costs .
5 . Maintain a professional image within the community.
SCOPE
' This policy applies to all ATC National Division systems .
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RESPONSIBILITIES
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A . System/Area Manager : The system/area manager is
' responsible to insure that this policy is
implemented in his/her system. Any system not
complying with this policy must advise their Vice-
President of Ops in writing and describe plans to
bring the system into compliance . Copies of this
correspondence should be sent to the Vice President
of Engineering.
B . System Engineer : The System Engineer is
responsible for developing specific System
Maintenance Procedures and Work assignments to
comply continuously with the policy . The System
' Engineer is responsible to review the specific work
assignments and procedures with the System/Area
Manager and to insure that each person on the work
force understands his/her assignments .
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C . Vice-President Engineering: The Vice-President of
' Engineering, in conjunction with the Project
Engineers , is responsible to monitor systems for
compliance with this policy . Each system will
provide a Annual statement of the System' s
compliance with the Policy to the Vice-President of
Engineering. The Vice-President of Engineering
will make assignments to the Project Engineers to
1 monitor and assist systems in resolving problems
with compliance .
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1 . HEAD END/HUB
' 1 . 1 . 1 . Checklist required in the system: Each
system Engineer must maintain and utilize a
specific System Headend/Hub Checklist as the basis
' for the periodic tests . Each item on the checklist
must specify established operation criteria or
levels . The System Headend/Hub checklist is part
of the System Maintenance Procedures . (As required
' in Paragraph B of Responsibilities . )
1 . 1 . 2 Responsibility_ The System Engineer is to :
' a) Ensure that detailed procedures are developed
for checking the headend.
b ) Designate at least 1 person to be responsible
for the operation of the headends/hubs .
c ) Ensure that headend checks are preformed
routinely .
d) Ensure corrective action is taken when the
established operation criteria is not met for
any item.
e ) Ensure that only qualified persons adjust or
repair headend equipment .
1 . 1 . 3 . Lod; results of headend checks : A log of
weekly headend checks is to be kept . The System
Engineer will review the log as to deviations
outside the established operational parameters .
The log will provide the system with a history of
headend' s operations to enable recognition of
unstable equipment .
1 . 1 . 4 . Tests required in checklist : The checklist
will be as comprehensive as necessary to ensure
that all signals leaving the headend/hub meet the
specifications of ATC requirements , the FCC , and
other pertinent regulatory bodies . The ATC signal
requirements must be modified as appropriate , by
systems using scrambling, addressability, or other
processing methods that effect the headend. Each
instrument used to verify the checklist items
should be calibrated prior to testing and allowed
to reach it ' s suggested operating temperature .
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1 . 1 . 5 . ATC signal requirements : All signals
leaving the headend/hub will meet the following ATC
requirements :
(Weekly Check)
' a) The channel shall be free of
spurious beats or interference
within the confines of system
' control .
b ) The RF video carrier level , without
' scrambling, will not vary more than
1 Db from specified levels .
' c ) The RF audio carrier level , without
scrambling, will operate between 13
and 17 Db below the related video
carrier , unless required by FCC to
clear FAA conflict .
d) The video carrier , in the
unscrambled mode , will be operated
within ± 0 . 5 Db of either adjacent
video carrier .
' e ) The depth of video modulation on all
AM modulators will be maintained at
87 . 5% f 2% .
f ) The audio subcarrier portion of any
television channel must not deviate
' more than 25 Khz at any frequency .
g) Proper operating levels will be
verified for all encoding/decoding
devices .
h ) All data carriers on the system will
' be maintained at recommended
manufacturer ' s specifications .
(Monthly Check)
a) The Baseband video and audio inputs
for all cable channels shall be
maintained at recommended
manufacturer levels .
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' b ) Video Cipher II AGC voltage
verified during the Scrambled mode .
c ) Emergency Override systems checked
for local and remote operation ( if
so equipped) .
' d) Microwave or TVRO waveguide
pressurization checked for leaks and
dessicant condition .
e ) Video and audio deviation checked on
all FM transportation channels .
1 ( Semi-annual Check )
' a) The cable channel will have a
Carrier-to-noise ratio without a
post-amp of 58 Db ; and with a post-
amp of 56 Db .
' b ) The Hum in a cable channel will be
less than 1 % of the related video
111 carrier level .
(Annual check)
a) The cable channel will have a video
carrier to interfering carrier ratio
the minimum outlined in the ATC
' Engineering Manual Frequency vs
Perceptible beat graph in Section E-
1 .
b ) The cable channel video carrier will
operate within a frequency tolerance
of 25 Khz from it ' s assigned
' frequency if it is a grandfathered
channel .
Any carriers not qualifying for
' grandfathered status must meet the
requirements of the new rules in
Section 76 . 612 of the FCC Rules &
Regulations . To ensure these
carriers are maintaining the new
tolerance off 5 Khz , more frequent
checks may be required.
c ) The cable channel ' s audio carrier
will be operated 4 . 5 Mhz , ±-- 1 Khz ,
above it ' s assigned video carrier .
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' d) The cable channel will have a
frequency response f 1 . 5 Db from 0 . 5
' Mhz below to 3 . 75 Mhz above the
assigned video carrier .
e ) All off-air antennas should be
checked for mechanical defects and
electrical integrity .
' 1 . 1 . 6 Equipment Specifications : The checklist
will incorporate test procedures to ensure that all
equipment is operating within specifications .
' 1 . 1 . 7 Standby Power : The checklist will include a
section for inspecting and checking Headend/Hub
standby generators or Battery backups for proper
joperation.
1 . 2 Ad Insertion :
1 . 2 . 1 . Maintenance Responsibility : If the system
has an in-house Ad Insertion Operation , The
' System/Area manager is to appoint a person
responsible for the technical maintenance of the
equipment .
1 . 2 . 2 Maintenance Requirements : Ad insertion
equipment will be maintained in accordance with
Manufacturer ' s suggested policies to protect all
warranties and ensure long equipment life .
2 . PLANT TEST POINT CHECKS
2 . 1 PLANT TEST POINTS :
2 . 1 . 1 Number of Test Points : The minimum
number of system test points should equal the total
system miles divided by ten . A minimum of three
test points per headend are required.
2 . 1 . 2 Location of Test Points : The test points
should be located at the last trunk amplifier
station on the longest cascades . The test point
locations are to be located so the picture checks
will represent worst case situations . The test
point locations are to be recorded on a system map .
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2 . 1 . 3 Schedule : Each week one fourth of the
test points are to be checked. The test point
checks are to be such that each test point is
visited at least once every month .
' 2 . 1 . 4 Use Established Pass/Fail Criteria:
Test points are to be checked using pass/fail
criteria for the established for the system ( see
2 . 1 . 6b ) . The monthly test point checks will test
overall system frequency response ; hum ; carrier to
noise of at least two signals ( one at the highest
1 and one at the lowest frequency ) , and video and
audio quality of all channels on a monitor . The
audio check should ensure that a customer need not
adjust the T .V . set ' s volume control to compensate
for audio level differences across channels . If
test points do not meet the pass/fail criteria, the
' System Engineer should ensure that corrective
action is taken .
2 . 1 . 5 Log Results : The monthly test point
' check is to be logged. The log is to record the
date , any problems found, corrective actions
taken , and the name of the person who performed the
tests .
2 . 1 . 6 Responsibility : The System Engineer
is responsible to :
a) Establish the schedule of which test points
and how many test points are checked each
week.
b ) Ensure that pass/fail criteria are developed
for the system' s test points .
c ) Assign personnel to review the test point
field checks .
d) Designate a person to review the test point
logs and flag problems .
2 . 2 SYSTEM SWEEPING:
System sweeping has been demonstrated to be one of the
most cost effective maintenance activities . Sweeping
ensures that UNITY GAIN across the active frequency band
is achieved.
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2 . 2 . 1 Sweeping Requirements :
a) Systems should be swept over the design
bandwidth of the plant in accordance to the
approved ATC design specification for that
plant .
b ) The maximum peak-to-valley acceptable during
monthly test point checking is not to exceed:
the number of amplifiers in cascade + 2
1 10
While N/ 10 + 2 is sufficient for monthly
checks , during actual field alignment the
' following should be adhered to :
the number of amplifiers in cascade + 1
1 10
c ) Corrective action must be taken if there are
' any deviations from the maximum peak-to-
valley .
d) Sweep Unit : The system sweep deteriorates the
' picture quality and therefore , the system
sweep unit is to be activated ( i . e . , turned
on ) only during the time sweep measurements
and adjustments are being taken .
e ) Sweep Outward from Headend: The sweeping
1 activity should start at the Headend/Hub and
work systematically outward. When the
activity for that day is over , the activity on
the following day should begin with re-
checking the last amplifier from the previous
day .
' 2 . 2 . 2 Frequency of Sweeping System: Each trunk
amplifier should be swept a minimum of once per
year . All other active devices should be checked
once per year .
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2 . 2 . 3 Sweeping Schedule : Each system will
P � y
establish a sweeping schedule for the year
accounting for anticipated weather variations . The
System Engineer is responsible for insuring that
the schedule includes the number of amplifiers to
be swept on a month-by-month basis and that a copy
is given to the System Manager .
2 . 2 . 4 Responsibilities
a) The designated sweep personnel are responsible
to sweep and to resolve deviations from the
' requirements . In addition , they are
responsible for noting any physical plant
problems for deficiencies ( i . e . , RFI , Lashing
Wire , Grounding, Bonding , Voltage , etc . ) .
b ) The System Engineer is responsible to
1 establish a way to track and clear such
physical plant problems .
c ) The System Engineer is responsible to ensure
1 that the sweep map is kept up to date .
d) The System Engineer is responsible to
authorize specific individuals who can open
amplifier housings and to ensure that all
personnel know that only authorized
individuals can open amplifiers .
2 . 2 . 5 Record on System Map : The sweeping
activity is to be displayed on a System map which
clearly indicates the status of the System sweeping
activity for the current year .
2 . 3 SYSTEM LEAKAGE:
2 . 3 . 1 System Leakage Log: Each System is to
use a System Leakage Log to record detections of
leaks ; where , when , by whom, when cleared, and what
was done to clear .
2 . 3 . 2 Clear Leakages : The System Engineer is
responsible to ensure that all leaks are
systematically cleared from the Leakage Log.
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2 . 3 . 3 Frequency of Monitoring: The FCC Rules
and Regulations Part 76 . 614 state that ; "CABLE
TELEVISION OPERATORS TRANSMITTING CARRIERS IN THE
FREQUENCY BANDS 108-137 AND 225-400 MHz SHALL
' PROVIDE FOR A PROGRAM OF REGULAR MONITORING FOR
SIGNAL LEAKAGE BY SUBSTANTIALLY COVERING THE PLANT
EVERY THREE MONTHS. THE INCORPORATION OF THIS
MONITORING PROGRAM INTO DAILY ACTIVITIES OF
EXISTING SERVICE PERSONNEL IN THE DISCHARGE OF
THEIR NORMAL DUTIES WILL GENERALLY COVER ALL
PORTIONS OF THE SYSTEM AND WILL THEREFORE MEET THIS
REQUIREMENT . "
Systems will comply with the FCC regulation by
following this Maintenance Policy during their
normal activities .
I 2 . 3 . 4 Leakage Detectors : Each system is
required to have a minimum of one leakage detector
that will detect 20 microvolts per meter at 3
1 meters .
2 . 3 . 5 Leakage Log: Each person is to be
equipped with a Leakage Log . Each person is
responsible to record each leak detected, where ,
when and by whom. The person must transfer the
information daily to the System Leakage Log which
the System Engineer reviews .
2 . 3 . 6 Record onto System Map : Each leak is to
also be displayed on the System Map ( see section
5 . 1 ) . Once the leak is cleared, it should be
marked as cleared but retained on the yearly map to
indicate areas with numerous leaks that might
require special maintenance .
2 . 4 PLANT POWER SUPPLY MAINTENANCE:
2 . 4 . 1 Manufacturer ' s Specifications : Standby
power supplies should be maintained in accordance
with the manufacturer ' s recommendations . The
System Engineer is responsible to insure that
pass/fail criteria is established for standby power
supplies . A counter and run time clock should be
installed in each stand-by power supply.
Conventional power supplies should be checked once
per year for current draw, grounding, and general
cleanup .
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2 . 4 . 2 Quarterly check : Standby power supplies
' will be checked once per quarter to ensure the
following:
1 a) That security for the batteries and the on/off
switch is still in place .
b ) That the AC voltage and current in and out is
according to specifications after operation in
the stand-by mode for at least 30 minutes .
' c ) That the automatic transfer switching will
work correctly .
' d) That the power supply will operate for at
least 30 minutes in the standby mode .
e ) That the condition of the batteries are such
1 that proper stand-by operation can be
expected.
f ) That risers , grounding , etc are installed in
the correct manner .
1 g) All replacement batteries are to be of the
solid dielectric type .
2 . 4 . 3 Power Supply Documentation : Each system
is required to maintain for all power supplies , a
written Bill of Materials that includes :
a) The Manufacturer and Model of each Power
Supply .
b ) The street address of each Power Supply .
c ) The name plate KVA rating ( if not metered) .
d) An estimate of the percentage of actual load
to rated load.
2 . 4 . 4 Electric Power Bills Audit : At least
once per year , audit the system' s power bills to
compare ( a) the amount of power consumption
indicated on the invoices against the actual usage
by the power supplies in the plant , and (b ) the
total number of power supplies that are actually
active in the field.
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2 . 5 BONDING, GROUNDING, AND SHIELDING:
111 2 . 5 . 1 All Actives : Every active device will be
bonded and grounded. In addition , the first , last ,
I and every 10th pole in the System will be bonded
and grounded.
2 . 5 . 2 Requirements : The System will comply
I with bonding and grounding requirements of the
applicable Telephone , Power , or any other
regulatory body.
I2 . 5 . 3 Grounding Poles : For upgrades , line
extensions , or new builds , in areas susceptible to
I lightning, ( as determined by the System Engineer ) ,
the pole before and the pole after an active device
will be grounded.
I2 . 5 . 4 Check Failures : Whenever multiple
failures occur in an active device , check to ensure
that the Bonding and Grounding is adequate .
I2 . 5 . 5 RFI Connectors : RFI shielded connectors
are to be used for all connectors in the System.
I The System is to schedule the change-out of
connectors through maintenance , upgrades and/or
rebuilds for all connectors which are not RFI
shielded.
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3 . Office
111 3 . 1 Office Picture Quality Checks :
3 . 1 . 1 . Requirements for Daily Picture Check : The
I picture quality and sound levels are to be checked
daily in the system office to ensure Quality
pictures and constant audio levels on all channels .
I3 . 1 . 2 . Responsibility for Picture Check : The
System Engineer must designate a person to be
responsible , such as a dispatcher , to conduct the
II daily picture and audio check . That person is to
advise the System Engineer when there are problems .
The System Engineer is to ensure that problems are
1 quickly resolved and to bring those not cleared
within 24 hours to the attention of the System
Manager with information as to when the problem
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will be cleared.
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3 . 2 . System Engineer Plant Monitoring: Once a month ,
the System Engineer will personally get involved to
obtain an independent check on the performance of the
plant . This could take the form of : Randomly calling
back a few service calls , meeting with Dispatchers , cold
calling some subscribers to ask opinion of our service ,
Etc .
4 . Customer ' s Residence
4 . 1 Installation/Reconnect :
4 . 1 . 1 Procedures : All Installation activity is to
' be conducted in accordance with the Division ' s Drop
Specifications . ( Copy Attached) .
4 . 2 Service Calls : The System Engineer will develope
and implement the following into the System' s regular
operating activities :
4 . 2 . 1 Requirements of a Work Order : The Service
call work order must include a description of the
customer ' s complaint and the services to which they
subscribe . Any discrepancies in the service levels
should be brought to the attention of the
dispatcher or other designated person .
4 . 2 . 2 Signal Level Measurements : Signal levels
must be taken and recorded on all service call work
' orders . At a minimum, the signal level
measurements must be taken on the lowest and
highest channel on the system, or those designated
by the System Engineer .
4 . 2 . 3 . Measurement at Ground Block : If the
Technician is unable to gain access to the
customer ' s home , He/She will take the required
signal readings either at the ground block or the
tap . These readings will be recorded on the
service call work order .
' 4 . 2 . 4 . Visual and Audio Check : Anytime Service
a
Technician is in a customer ' s home , the audio and
video on ALL channels will be checked.
•
4 . 2 . 5 . Repeat Service Calls : All instances of
service calls required twice or more at the same
location during a _ day period will be reviewed by
the System Engineer or his designate . Corrective
' action will be taken to prevent similar problems .
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ANNIMMINIMMEMINEMMI
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5 . System Documentation
' 5 . 1 . Required Documentation :
5 . 1 . 1 . System Maps : Each system will have at a
minimum of one complete , up-to-date set of Denver
Design Prints including BOM/LA sheets . These
prints should also denote system sweep and signal
leakage activities as well as test point locations .
5 . 1 . 2 . Head End Diagrams : Each Headend/Hub should
have a block diagram and wiring diagram to aid in
trouble-shooting and training.
5 . 1 . 3 . Power Supply Documentation : Power supply
documentation as per section 2 . 4 . 3 of this
document .
5 . 1 . 4 . LOGS : Full compliance with this policy
requires the logging of various activities ,
including Headend/Hub checks , Ad insertion
Maintenance , Test point checks , System leakage log,
Etc .
5 . 2 . Responsibility Check List Form:
5 . 2 . 1 . Responsibility Check List Form: The System
Engineer is to ensure that the Responsibility Check
List Form ( attached to this Policy ) is complete ,
kept current , and reviewed with the system
personnel .
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' APPENDIX H
' Public Access Services
and Facilities
II
Y1STA
ABLEVISION 3225 Maurine Street Wichita Falls, Texas 76305 817 855.5700 Fax 817 855.0465
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IPUBLIC ACCESS- VISTA CABLEVISIOH
IEquipment available for Public Access:
I * This equipment is shared with Local Origination and
Ad sales
I ( 3) Sony DXC-3000 Chip Cameras
(1) Mackie 1604- 16 channel audio board
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(1) JVC KM-2000 Switcher
(1) Video Toaster 9000
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(2) Sony 9800 3/4 videotape decks
1 (1) Sony 9850 3/4 videotape editor
Plus associated microphones,props and lights,etc. as
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part of the studio.
IPlayback Hours:
Sunday: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
IMonday-Thursday: 7:00pm - 9:00pm I
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Staff for Public Access;
I (1) Full-time Production Coordinator Monday - Friday
8am-5pm: This person is shared with
Local Origination and Advertising Sales
I (1) Part-time Playback Operator: .
Sunday - Thursday (15-20 hrs/week)
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A OIY1110/ Or //entire UAAU[A CASlf
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' APPENDIX I
' Institutional Network Locations
ID
4/28/95
is
Appendix I
I # Public Buildings - Square Type Address
1 Municipal Court City 611 Bluff
I2 Memorial Auditorium City 1300 7th Street
3 Activities Center City 607 10th
I4 Fire Dept. Admin. City 1005 Bluff
5 Health Dept. City 1700 3rd
I6 Police Dept. I City 610 Holliday
7 Sanitation Div. City 200 Sunset
I 8 Streets Div. I City 200 Van Buren
9 Traffic& Transportation City 2100 Seymour Hwy.
10 Multi-Purpose Event Center I City Burnett
I # Schools - Triangles Type I Address
1 Admin. Building Admin. 11104 Broad St.
2 Hirschi High High 13106 Borton St.
3 Rider High High 14611 Cypress Ave.
4 Wichita Falls High High 12149 Ave. H
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I 5 Barwise Jr. High Jr. High 13807 Kemp St.
I 6 Kirby Jr. High Jr. High 11715 N. Loop 11
7 McKiel Jr. High Jr. High 14712 Barnett Rd.
8 Zundy Jr. High Jr. High 11706 Polk St.
I9 MSU College 13400 Taft Blvd.
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I APPENDIX J
I Institutional Network Design Specifications
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Wichita Falls, TX - INETs
' Proiect Overview
' Wichita Falls Cablevision will provide two separate fiber optic networks for the city of Wichita
Falls: one fiber backbone system serving ten(10) municipal buildings and another fiber backbone
system serving nine (9) school buildings. (See Appendix I)
' These Municipal Area Networks (MAN) will provide direction for the future and establish
standards that will enable easy growth of the networks into the future. The municipal network
' will offer high speed MAN access that will support LAN, video, and voice traffic at a minimum
MAN speed of 100 megabits per second.
The system will be primarily managed from a central location(the office building of Wichita Falls
Vista Cablevision) and will offer the following deliverables:
• transparent to user applications
• provide a secure environment to restrict access to unauthorized areas except by
' • certain users
provide a robust network and solid recovery plans
• use proven technology from reputable vendors
• provide systems that can grow as the technology and the services change
Transport System
Multichannel transmission will be accomplished using wide deviation frequency modulation and
frequency division multiplexing (FM/FDM)techniques. A star configuration will be built using
the Wichita Falls headend as the central distribution point for all services to and from all
interconnections. The star configuration can provide wide distribution of signals to multiple
locations, can use uni- or bi-directional transmission, can add additional buildings easily, and
provides the highest signal quality.
Protocol
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) will be the primaryprotocol used by
Wichita Falls Vista Cablevision. TCP/IP is the protocol used on the Internet. It is also used by
' most UNIX systems such as DEC Ultrix/OSFI, Hewlett Packard HP/US and IBM AIX. It is also
showing up as options for Novell, Apple, and Microsoft NT based systems. TCP/IP is the
protocol of choice for routed networks due to its efficiency and wide acceptance. It also provides
a common fabric to interconnect many types of systems on a network.
Network Management
The two fiber networks will be managed at the Wichita Falls Vista Cablevision headend using the
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) for the management structure. SNMP provides
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4/28/95
a common language in which to communicate with network devices and ascertain their status. It
also provides the ability to collect data on equipment utilization, failures, and long term statistics.
' Hardware
Wichita Falls Vista Cablevision will only use systems that are based on accepted standards and
that are from vendors with a proven track record of reliability, performance, and stability in the
market place. This will insure that we will have a network that will be supported into the future
with upgrades and support.
' Training
Wichita Falls Vista Cablevision personnel will provide training to the city personnel on the
111 network on key pieces of the network to insure the network will perform at its peak at all times.
Fiber Network*
Dedicated signal node fibers will be run from the Wichita Falls Vista Cablevision headend building
to each of the 19 city and school buildings. Each of these fibers have the potential bandwidth of
' 1.5 GHz. The system bandwidth is dependent on the hardware used at the building interface to
the internal networks.
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CONSTRUCTION MANUAL
A Copy will be Maintained in the City Clerk's Office
COCItrfa EdeCUYC Date
Initials
EXHIBIT A
CiltanUICEMLSEEcnacAnazis
CONTENTS
I .
SECTION I Compliance Requirements
2
SECTION II Aerial Construction Specifications 3 - 9
ISECTION III Buried Construction Specifications 10 - 14
ISECTION IV Aerial and Buried Splicing Specifications 15 - 19
SECTION V Power Supply Specifications
20 - 21
SECTION VI System Alignment Specifications
22
SECTION VII Construction Materials Specifications 23 - 24
SECTION VIll Aerial Fiber Optic Construction Specifications 25 - 26
ECTION IX Buried Fiber Optic Construction Specifications 27 - 28
'SECTION X Fusion Splicing Specifications
29
iSECTION XI Multiple Dwelling Units - Specifications and Sketches 30 - 33
ECTION XII Construction Sketches 34 - 51
Exhibit A Page 1 of 51
cont-caca
Comma Effective Date
Initials
Initials
SECTION I
Camallanceilcuartinsau
IA. The plant constructed for
shall hereinafter set forth. In addition, the following supplementaltrefereenced eet the specifications and ha be
observed: specifications shall be
( I ) Occupational Safety and Health Code (latest edition)
' ( 2 ) Applicable power and telephone pole attachment agreements
( 3 ) Applicable city, county and state ordinances
(4 ) National Electric Safety Code (latest edition)
I ( S ) National Electric Code (latest edition)
( 6 ) Applicable government agencies for safety and health for the work force.
( 7 ) Manufacturers specifications
' ( 8 ) Exhibit 0, Scope of Work
' B. Municipal, county, state or federal regulations may alter construction specifications in some areas.
If construction specifications are altered from these standards, an additional
illustrate changes. attachment will
C. All changes/revisions of the construction specifications made by the contractor
in writing and approved by the Owner's VP of Engineering. must be requested
ID. The owner reserves the right to change/revise the construction
conditions. In such case, the contractor shall be notified in writings ��ons to adapt to local
f
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kont-exa
Exhibit A Page 2 of 51
' Contract Effective Date
laituls
toitials
SECTION LI A .on I�
' erial atrLlin o Speerncafinw
I. Anchoring and Guying
A. General Procedures
' ( 1 ) Anchors and guy wires shall be installed and tensioned prior to sagging
( 2 ) All guy wires shall be properly tensioned. The tensioningof CATV
strand.
exceed that of any existing guys. guy wires is not to
' ( 3 ) Care should be exercised in anchoring to prevent the raking of poles which could cause
damage to the poles or to peripheral equipment.
(4 ) All installations of anchors shall be coordinated with the Department of Public Works and
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all utility companies to insure that no damage will be incurred to buried services.
( 5 ) All guy wires shall maintain proper clearances to ensure safe passage of vehicles and
persons.
' ( 6 ) The splicing of down guys is not permitted.
( 7 ) All down guys shall be bonded to the strand.
( 8 ) False dead-end strand attachments with down guys shall be used where great differences
' on pulling tensions are required to maintain proper clearances and to prevent raking of
non-guyed poles.
( 9 ) If anchor rods are distorted or damaged during the anchoring procedure, they must be
' replaced.
B. Installation Procedures
( 1 ) Consult the aerial construction sketches in Section 10 for references.
' ( 2 ) One-quarter inch (1/4") or five-sixteenth inch (5/16") extra high strength strand shall be
used at all anchoring locations, to match support system messenger.
( 3 ) Strand shall be continuous to the anchor where possible. Where continuous strand is not
required to the anchor rod, a continuity bond shall be used to tie the guy wire to the
support strand.
( 4 ) All anchors shall be placed in the ground making certain that at all times the anchor rod is
in line with the proposed guy attachment. No bends will be allowed in the anchor.
( 5 ) The eye of the anchor rod shall not extend more than twelve inches (12") above ground
level.
( 6 ) Guy tails at anchor level shall be trimmed close to the preform guy grip and shall not
extend more than two inches (2") beyond the grip loop.
( 7 ) Guy guards shall be installed on all down guy wires.
( 8 ) Span guys (pole to pole) shall be used in locations where it is not feasible to install an
anchor or a false dead-end.
( 9 ) Sidewalk guys shall be used in all locations where a clearance of eight feet (8) is not
available over sidewalks or lateral room is not available using normal guy wire installation
techniques.
Lat-exa Exhibit A Page 3 of 51
Contract Effective Date
Initial
' Initials{ 1
(10) Temporary guys shall be installed at the end of any strand run that is proposed for
extension by the owner before sagging in strand, with permission of the(11) Auxiliary eye attachments to existing utility anchors will not be allowed.utility companies.
(12) Pole to pole guys shall terminate at an anchor unless otherwise authorized in writing by
the Construction Manager.
(13) Side guys are required on all poles where the tangential pull is greater than ten degrees
(10°).
III. Installation of Strand
IA. General Procedures
( 1 ) All precautions shall be taken while pulling strand in order to:
' a) Prevent damage to other utility equipment and wires.
b) Prevent damage to public and private properties.
c) Prevent strand from contacting utility lines.
d) Maintain clearances across roads and driveways.
( 2 ) Strand shall not be pulled with a vehicle unless an appropriate tension release device is
employed and approved by the Owner.
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B. Set Up Procedures
( 1 ) Strand brakes (pole mount) shall be used at all road crossings and commercial drives.
( 2 ) The "B" roller or traveling ground is the approved method of grounding and shall be used
at all times when pulling strand.
( 3 ) Proper set up distance shall be maintained (twice the height of attachment).
( 4 ) Brakes shall be used on all trailers to maintain appropriate pulling tension.
I ( S ) Adequate safety cones and signs shall be used at all work locations consistent with local
and state guidelines and good recommended safety practices.
C. Pole Attachment
( 1 ) Consult the aerial construction sketches in Section 10 for installation references.
( 2 ) All pole piercing holes will be eleven-sixteenth inches (11/16") with no less than four
inches (4") vertically between holes in any direction.
( 3 ) Unless local regulations require differently, in the case where there is power only, the
strand shall be attached to the same side of the pole to which the power neutral is attached
and shall be at a minimum of 40" below the neutral. Where there is telephone cable, the
strand shall be attached to the same side as the telephone cable and shall be a minimum of
12" above that cable and a minimum 40" below power.
( 4 ) At no time shall there be more than one and one-half inches (1-1/2") or less than two (2)
full threads of bolt extending beyond the outside of the square nut after the suspension
clamp has been securely fastened.
Exhibit A Page 4 of 51
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1 Contract Efeuive Date
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( 5 ) The lip of the suspension damp shall always be below the through bolt. Clamps should
mounted as per the manufacturerspecifications, Depending �P be
be either facing the pole or facing away om the pole. on the type used, the lip will
( 6 ) Curved suspension clamps shall be used where the tangential pull is from ten to
degrees (10° - 35°), and attached on the front side of pole.
Y five
' ( 7 ) Where tangential pull is greater than thirty-five degrees(35°), the pole shall be framed as a
double dead-end pole. Downguys will be placed at all locations that the pole owner has
downguys.
( 8 ) Curved suspension clamps shall always be placed on the threaded end of through bolts.
Dead-end attachments may be attached to opposite end of through bolts.
( 9 ) Tangential pulls at strand cross ovens shall not be done .
(10) False dead-end strand attachments shall be used in all locations accompanied with guying
where great differences in pulling tensions are required to maintain proper clearances and
prevent raking of non-guyed poles or placement of a dead-end anchor is not possible on
' the final pole.
(11) All strand splices shall be of the two or three piece preformed variety and shall be placed
no more than eighteen inches (18") from the edge of the three-bolt suspension clamp.
(12) All suspension clamps on either side of all road crossings must be tightened before strand
crews leave the run.
' (13) Where slight differences of pulling tension are required between pole spans, suspension
clamps shall be tightened after strand is sagged in.
(14) Initial strand placement must always be slightly tighter than the final plant to allow for the
installed cable weight to stretch the final plant into proper sag. Final sagging shall be
accomplished when the cable is lashed.
III. Bonding and Grounding
A. General Procedures
( 1 ) The CATV plant shall be grounded in a manner
as required by local ordinances, and in
accordance with bonding and grounding architecture established by Owner.
( 2 ) The strand and equipment shall be bonded to all existing vertical grounds when possible
(power, phone, CATV).
( 3 ) The strand shall be bonded to the telephone company in a manner as specified by the
telephone company.
( 4 ) At sites of existing buried facilities, the contractor shall request proper locates prior to
driving the ground rods.
( 5 ) All active devices which consist of fiber nodes and trunk and distribution amplifiers will
conform to the Owner's grounding and bonding architecture.
B. Installation Procedures
( 1 ) Each power supply housing shall be bonded as specified in the Owner's grounding and
bonding architecture..
Exhibit A Page 5 of 51
c:\coot-exa
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Contract Elective Date
initula
( 2 ) Each active housing location shall be bonded as specified in the Owner's grounding and
bonding architecture.
( 3 ) The strand shall be bonded to a vertical ground (existing or installed) at the first, last an every fifth pole, plus or minus one pole. d
' ( 4 ) All strand and guy wires attached to the same pole shall be bonded together with KU-L
weaver clamps. Tails from bonding wires must point toward the pole.
( 5 ) In
the absence of the power company vertical ground, grounding shall be accomplished
by:
a) Driving a 5/8" x 8' ground rod to a depth of four inches (4") below ground
specified in Section III, B, 6. 8x d level as
' b) Attaching a soft #6 AWG drawn copper wire from the ground rod clamp to the strand
with the KU-L weaver clamp.
c) Installing protective molding over the bottom eight feet (8) of the ground wire in all
I locations where accessible to the public. The t
un roected
pole surface everyun(24")protected ground wire must be
attached to the
twenty-four inches with copper staples.
d) The ground rod clamp shall be treated with Penetrox "E", an oxide inhibiting
compound, before being buried.
( 6 ) Materials used for bonding and grounding:
a) Number 6 AWG solid soft drawn wire.
' b) Copper or copper clad staples.
c) Plastic molding.
d) Ground rods 5/8" x 8'copper clad steel.
e) Bronze ground rod clamps, using a non-galvanic locking bolt.
f) All bonding clamps shall be of non-galvanic material or have bimetal spacers to prevent
corrosion when bonding two dissimilar metals.
IV. Installation of Coaxial Cable
IA. General Procedures
( 1 ) When transporting reels from the warehouse to the construction site, cable ends will be
securely fastened and be capped using plastic caps provided by Owner. These caps are
used to avoid water ingress and migration.
( 2 ) Coaxial cables shall be smoothly installed avoiding loose lashing wire and/or twisting,
weaving or air looping of the cable. Cable that is not smoothly installed or cable that has
any physical ripple, kink or flatness around the outside diameter of the cable, shall be
cause for replacement.
( 3 ) Maximum pulling tensions as specified by the cable manufacturer shall not be exceeded
when pulling coaxial cables. Use of breakaway swivel and pulling grip are required.
B. Set Up Procedures
( 1 ) Safety cones and signs shall be used at all work locations as specified by applicable
governmental agencies.
Exhibit A Page 6 of 51
Icont-exa
1
' Contract Effective pate
Initial
Initial
( 2 ) The cable trailer shall never be placed anythe
nearer to pole than the height of the strand
attachment to that pole. It is preferred that cable trailers be placed twice the strand height
' attachment from the base of the pole in order to prevent distortion of the cable. The angle
of elevation of the cable as it comes off the reel should not be greater than 45 degrees.
( 3 ) When the payout trailer is set up, the center of the reel should be sighted so that the cable
pulls from the center of the reel, directly into the setup block, and along the line-of-sight
of the strand. If the payout red cannot be leveled, the contractor will ensure that an
individual is stationed at the reel to enable the cable to unwind without making contact
with the flanges of the reel.
( 4 ) The contractor shall use a 45 degree multi-cable roller or an equivalent at the first pole of
the proposed run to insure minimum stress and maximum protection to the cable as it
' comes off the reel. For single feeder, a cable chute or roller may be used if trailer set upis
at least 1-1/2 times the attachment height away from the pole.
' ( 5 ) Cable brakes shall be used on all trailers to maintain appropriate tension during the pull.
( 6 ) Prior to pulling the cable, the contractor shall ensure that the flanges of the reel are
smooth and free of nails and staples.
C. Installation Procedures
' ( 1 ) Consult the aerial construction sketches in Section 10 for installation references.
( 2 ) All cables must be pulled from the top of the reel.
( 3 ) Coaxial cables shall not be pulled with a vehicle unless accompanied by an automatic
' tension release to prevent damage to the cable. figs will be used on all new build.
( 4 ) No drive off of coaxial cable is permitted.
( 5 ) Trunk cable shall be pulled continuously without a splice between amplifiers except at
every second 90 degree turn of the pull where one splice will be allowed. In any case, one
(1) trunk splice is the maximum allowed between amplifiers. More than one splice in a
trunk spacing should be approved by Owner's representative.
' ( 6 ) Cable rollers shall be used in the following manner and locations to protect cable and
property:
a) One roller will be placed 3 to 5 feet each side of every pole. Two rollers will be placed
mid-span 10 to 15 feet apart for spans greater than 80 feet. When distance from the
pole roller to the first mid-span roller exceeds 80 to 100 feet, multiple mid-span roller
setups will be used. Each mid-span set up will consist of two rollers spaced 10 to 15
feet apart. Distances from one mid-span set up to another will not exceed 80 to 100
feet.
b) Not more than 25 foot spacing between rollers over all roadways and commercial drive
to ensure clearances.
c) Over all telephone drops to prevent chafing of drop.
d) Over all driveways and in areas where persons could be hurt.
e) Cable will not be left in rollers over night.
( 7 ) Corner cable rollers, especially designed for this purpose, shall be used for pulling coaxial
cables around corners greater than 30 degrees.
Exhibit A Page 7 of 51
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Contract Edxtree Date
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( 8 ) When pulling multiple cables, appropriate cable rollers shall be utilized to properly support
and separate the cables so that when lashed, the cables will maintain their same position in
' the cable bundle throughout the entire length of the cable run. Ensure that the cables
which will have expansion loops are positioned at the bottom of the bundle.
( 9 ) All trunk cables, .750" or greater, and any cable bundle three fourths inch(3/4") or greater
' shall be double lashed. When lashing coaxial cable to the grand, there shall not be less
than one wrap in fourteen inches(14").
(10) A divider block shall be used in front of the hasher when more than one cable is being
' lashed, and a cable block pusher (referred to as a "shotgun") shall be used in front of the
tastier when lashing coaxial cable over bare strand.
(11) The lashing machine shall not be pulled with a vehicle at any time unless an automatic
' tension release is employed. Angle from lasher to ground will be kept constant by a
person guiding the pull rope.
(12) The lashing wire shall be wrapped twice around the strand before terminating in the
' lashing wire clamp. The lashing wire clamp must be securely fastened to the strand to
ensure that the clamp does not slide or twist.
(13) Lashing wire clamp should be installed with washers facing you on your right and away
from you on your left. The lashing wire shall go between the two washers and be
wrapped no more than one-half turn, then 3 times around the nut side. When double
lashing, the two wires should be separated by the interior washer. The nut on the washer
' side should be tightened to secure the wire.
(14) When the lashing wire is securely fastened, the end of the lashing wire shall not be
' exposed. It shall be tucked inside of the cable lashing clamp. No end of wire shall
protrude from the clamp.
(15) Cable support straps and plastic cable spacers shall be placed two inches (2") from the
lashing wire clamp on the pole side of the clamp. Kinsel type spacers shall be used on •
multiple cable bundles.
(16) Coaxial cable tails shall be left at most amplifiers, DC or splitter locations, in the following
' manner:
a) Six feet (6) beyond the pole.
b) Output tails shall be properly pulled and bent toward the input side, where the
equipment would be placed, without "boxing in" the pole.
c) Tails are to be supported by a section of lashing wire, cable support strap, or nylon tie
wrap, no less than six inches(6") from the end of the cable.
' d) Cable ends shall be sealed with proper cable caps, as provided by the Owner, to
prevent moisture ingress prior to splicing. No tape will be used to seal cable ends.
' (17) Plastic tree guards shall be placed in all locations where coaxial cables will be in contact
with a foreign body which will apply pressure, shock or rubbing action to damage coaxial
cables over a period of time.
(18) All cable spans shall be properly sagged, either visually or by measurement, while
maintaining a minimum distance from local utility lines as required:
a) The cable sag should be proportional to that of the power in most cases.
Exhibit A Page 8 of 51
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' Contract Effective Dose
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b) At locations where the telephone plant is absent or sagged too low, the recommended
length)
sag for the cable is 1% (of the span
at 70 degrees F timid-span.
' (19) All suspension clamps shall be tightened upon completion of the cable installation.
D. Expansion Loops
( 1 ) Consult the aerial construction sketches in Section 10 for installation references.
( 2 ) All corners greater than 45 degrees shall have a trunk loop on one adjacent pole on the
' output side. Loop should be located on opposite side of pole from device, when device is
present.
( 3 ) One expansion loop shall be placed in all coaxial cables at the output side of every pole.
( 4 ) All expansion loops will be of the flat bottom type with the "flat" portion being no less
than 15 cable diameters or 12" long whichever is greater. These loops shall be formed
using the Jackson Communications bending tool or an equivalent. The bending radius
' shall be not less than the manufacturer's recommended minimum bending radius.
( 5 ) At cable loops, bands and spacers will be left loose enough to allow the cable to move
with expansion or contraction, but snug enough to prevent the cable from rolling upward.
( 6 ) If the loop consists of more than one (1) cable, an extra strap shall be placed at its bottom
to hold the cable together. Loops of .875" or larger cable shall not be formed together
1 with those of smaller diameter cables unless the larger cable can be positioned on top. In
such cases, the strap shall be loosely installed.
IE. Tree Trimming
( 1 ) The owner may authorize tree trimming where tree limbs (up to 2" in diameter) obstruct
the cable lashing operation or will be in contact with the cable after installation.
( 2 ) Promptly and properly remove and dispose of the resultant refuse from the trimming of
trees or other foliage.
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( 3 ) Tree trimming will be accomplished on private property only after the contractor obtains
the consent of the owner.
( 4 ) The con
tractor shall employ pro
per tree trimming techniques to prevent sho
ck or dis
ease
damage to the trees.
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ExhibitA Page9of51
c:1cont-exa
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' Contract ESocnve Date
lain
!wale
Section III
Burled Plant Construction Specification;
IA. General Procedures
' ( 1 ) All buried plant construction shall meet National Electrical Safety Code minimum depth
requirements, as well as those specified by city, county and/or state codes and Owner.
( 2 ) All buried plant construction shall be in accordance with local permit requirements and
stay within easements.
( 3 ) The Owner will acquire all street opening and easement permits prior to the
commencement of work in these areas.
( 4 ) Any cable or conduit not meeting the minimum depth specifications must be approved in
writing by the Owner prior to backfilling of trench.
( 5 ) All open trench and bore pits will be viewed by Owner for depth prior to back filling
operation.
B. pioniog
1 Prior to commencement
) of construction in any buried plant area the following shall be
' done:
a) Pre-survey the site and plan out the route. The cable route should be selected for the
best trenching conditions, minimum obstructions, and straightest line possible.
' b) Where there are existing buried facilities, including sprinkler systems, within the area
to be trenched, the Contractor shall request locates of such facilities by the respective
persons, companies, or utilities.
c) Consult all parties involved to resolve any errors or inconsistencies between the
design, actual layout, and existing facility locates.
d) When opening a trench or boring pit, arrange the work schedule such that no open
' trenches are left overnight. If for some reason a trench has to be left open, make
sure that it is well barricaded and marked and notify Owner's representative. All bore
pits are to be covered and barricaded.
C. Construction Technique
( 1 ) Sod and Plant Removal
a) All sod along the buried cable route shall be properly removed by sod cutting
' machines or shovels and rolled up to protect it against moisture loss. It is to be
stored out of the way, preferably in a cool area, until restoration. Occasional wetting
may be required.
b) Extreme care shall be used in removing plants or fixtures along the buried cable route
to prevent them from being damaged.
Exhibit A Page 10 of 51
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t ( 2 ) Direct Bury
a) Either trenching or plowing is an acceptable method to "direct bury" feeder,
' depending on local conditions. Plowing of trunk cable is unacceptable.
b) All coaxial cable shall be direct buried at a minimum depth of twenty inches (20"),
measuring from the top of the cable or conduit to the surface level, unless otherwise
t required by local codes or permits or specified by the Owner. All trunk cable shall be
open trenched at a minimum depth of twenty-four inches(24").
c) Trench width shall be the absolute minimum necessary to accommodate
recompaction.
d) Buried cable used at all direct buried or conduit locations shall be jacketed with
' flooding compound.
e) Cable shall be routed beneath fixed obstacles located at or above the required depth
in the trench or plow line.
' f) No cable splices of direct buried cable, between enclosures, will be permitted.
( 3 ) Conduit
' a) Unless otherwise specified by the Owner, cables shall be buried in conduit at the
following locations:
- Road Crossings
' - Driveway Crossings
- Joint trenches
- Fiber runs
' b) All conduits shall be buried at a minimum depth of twenty-four inches (24") and
twenty-four inches (24") for road bores, measuring from the top of the conduit to the
surface level, unless otherwise required by local codes or permits or specified by the
' Owner.
c) Six inches (6") of loose soil will be placed around the conduit to filter through the
' joints.
d) Warning tape must be placed twelve inches(12") above conduit.
e) Conduit shall be galvanized steel pipe, rigid PVC conduit, or rolled flexible cable
conduit, as specified by Owner.
f) Vertical conduit ends shall extend four inches (4") above ground level. Ends shall be
smoothed out and capped until cable is to be installed. After the cable is pulled, all
conduit ends (both vertical and horizontal) shall be sealed with materials approved by
Owner and a pull string will be installed to all conduits.
g) Conduits shall extend two feet (2') out from each edge of pavement unless otherwise
specified.
h) If conduits must cross, a pad (of dirt) shall be installed between them to prevent
breakage.
i) No coaxial cable splices are allowed in buried conduit.
j) All coaxial cable installed in conduits shall be jacketed and flooded.
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( 4 ) Zhu
a) Ail road bores are to be installed at a minimum depth of twenty-four inches (24") and
meet or exceed National Electrical Safety Code, city, county or state offices minimum
depth requirements,
b) Bore pits should be a minimum of six feet (6) from pavement whenever possible.
c) Water or air jetting is not an acceptable method of boring.
Surface Cuts
I ( S )
a) All concrete and asphalt cuts and patches shall be Electrical Safety Code minimum depth requirements nas well ase in d thoseanceRspeciith ionfied b al y y
' Owner, the city, county or state offices. i
b) Concrete, asphalt and other non-salvageable materials shall be removed from the job
site.
ID. Installation of Coaxial Cable
( 1 ) General Procedures
a) Coaxial cable structural return loss after installation shall not degrade by more than 3
t dB from 5 MHz to 1 GHz.
b) When transporting reels from the warehouse to the construction uction site, cable ends will
be securely fastened and capped to avoid damage and water migration.
' ( 2 ) setup
a) Safety cones and signs shall be used at all work locations as specified by applicable
governmental agencies.
b) Cables shall be set up on trailers or jack- stands directly in line with the trench. No
coiling or uncoiling of cable off the reel is permitted.
' c) Prior to pulling the cable, the contractor shall ensure that the flanges of the reel are
smooth and free of nails and staples.
( 3 ) Installation of Coaxial Cable
a) Maximum pulling tensions as specified by the cable manufacturer shall not be
exceeded when laying coaxial cables in trenches.
b) Coaxial cables shall not be pulled in conduits or trench with a vehicle or machine
without an automatic tension release. Dragging or pulling of cable into the soil is not
allowed.
c) To prevent damage, the cable must not be in contact with any sharp object or edge
during installation.
d) Laying of trunk cable shall be continuous, without splices, between amplifiers except
at every second 90 degree turn of the spacing where one splice will be allowed. In
any case, one (1) trunk splice is the maximum allowed between amplifiers unless
otherwise approved by the Owner in writing. Splices shall be placed above ground,
inside an enclosure.
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e) Cable must be handled with care and placed in the trench without damaging the jacket
or kinking the aluminum sheath. The bottom of the trench line shall be smooth and
free of rock, hard debris and sharp objects.
I) Installation of cable in conduit shall be accomplished as follows:
( 1 ) The cable shall be installed in the conduit alter the conduit is laid and covered, by either
inserting it or pulling it through the conduit with a pull tape or string. Apply a liberal
amount of lubricant on the cable as it enters the conduit. Owner provides the lubricant.
( 2 ) If the cable is to be installed in the conduit while the trench is still opened:
- Pull or insert the cable through the conduit prior to placing of the ninety (90°) degree
sweeps on the conduit ends at the pedestal locations.
- Cut the cable at the top of the pedestals on each end of run to leave adequate tails.
- The ninety (90°) degree sweeps shall then be installed over the cable ends and glued
to the conduit.
g) At no time shall cable be left exposed above ground while the job site is unattended.
Cable tails are to be protected by permanent or temporary enclosures as soon as they
are installed.
h) All cable ends, including reel ends, shall be protected from moisture with cable caps
at all times. Caps are provided by Owner.
E. Bacicfill andRecorrpaction
( 1 ) Backfill and recompaction of trench line shall occur immediately upon completion of cable
or conduit installation for a given run.
( 2 ) Backfilling shall be done in lifts of approximately twelve inches (12"). Each lift shall be
thoroughly compacted before the next lift is laid.
( 3 ) Burial tape is to be placed twelve inches (12") above cable or conduit in all open trenches.
( 4 ) Six inches (6") of clean fill shall be laid in and the entire lift compacted. Great care shall be
taken to ensure that cable is not damaged during this process.
F. Restoration
( 1 ) All sod, plants and fixtures disturbed by buried plant construction shall be restored to its
original conditions and to a satisfactory condition for the Owner, landowner or any other
party responsible for the condition of the property.
( 2 ) Items damaged or destroyed shall be repaired and made functional or replaced completely.
G. Setting Enclosures
( 1 ) All enclosures will be located after notification of the appropriate property owner(s).
( 2 ) The proper size of enclosures shall be used according to the device(s) that will be
enclosed.
( 3 ) All enclosures shall be placed within the right-of-way or easement, and, if possible,
clustered with existing facilities of phone and power without obstructing their accessibility.
( 4 ) All enclosures shall be installed facing the street if possible.
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' ( 5 ) All enclosures shall be installed in a vertical position, supported by a stake provid
ed by
manufacture. The enclosure shall be installed to grade pa manufacturer's specifications.
' H. Bondingand Ground'
�
' ( 1 ) All active equipment and power supply locations shall be grounded as well as every
termination. -
( 2 ) Unless otherwise specified by the Owner, buried plant grounding shall be accomplished
by:
a) Driving an eight foot (8') ground rod to a depth of four inches (4") above ground
t level inside the enclosure. Care should be taken not to damage the existing utilities'
buried cables.
b) Attach a soft drawn copper wire from the ground rod clamp to the clean unpainted I
surface of the device or grounding lug; not the enclosure.
c) The ground rod clamp shall be treated with Penetrox "E", an oxide inhibiting
compound. Penetrox "E" provided by Owner.
( 3 ) A bond shall be installed between the CATV pedestal and that of other utility companies,
as required and specified by the Owner.
I I.
( 1 ) The same type of cable used for buried plant construction shall be used for risers. The
cable shall be run continuous from the buried plant to the bottom of the riser pole and up
to the level of aerial attachment. A minimum of six feet of cable "tail" shall be left for
splicing into aerial plant. Tail should be attached to the strand or aerial cable in such a
way that it cannot become entangled with power primary or secondary.
( 2 ) The cable shall be attached to the pole in a manner which does not obstruct its climbing
' space.
( 3 ) Steel "U" guard molding shall be installed from six inches (6") below base of pole. PVC
conduit to within eighteen inches (18") of CATV strand.
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Exhibit A Page 14 of 51
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SECTION IV
Aerial and Buried Plant Splicing Specifrcatigp
I. Aerial, plicing
A. General Procedures
( 1 ) The appropriate cable preparation device and coring tool for each type and/or size
coaxial cable, approved by the Owner, shall be used in all splicing.
( 2 ) Splice blocks must be used when splicing dissimilar cables.
( 3 ) All active and passive equipment will be situated in a manner that is safely accessible
for service by personnel.
( 4 ) The splicer shall ensure that the pole vicinity is free of trash, resulting from the
splicing process before leaving the pole.
B. Splicing Procedures
( 1 ) All splicing shall be in accordance with the splicing sketches in Section 10.
( 2 ) Other than a few exceptions such as at riser poles and slack spans, all devices are to
be mounted on the input side of the pole using forward signal direction as reference.
( 3 ) One (1) trunk splice between amplifiers is the maximum allowed unless otherwise
approved by the owner in writing.
( 4 ) No splice will be allowed in new plant construction, where it is not accessible from
the pole by a man on climbers.
( 5 ) No active device will be mounted on a slack span unless approved by the owner.
( 6 ) Splicers shall use an ohm meter during the splicing process of new plant to ensure
that the cable run is continuous without "short" or "open" circuits.
( 7 ) All trunk devices, actives and passives shall have expansion loops at the output side
Iof the pole.
( 8 ) All feeder devices (actives, passives and splices) shall have expansion loop(s) at their
output(s).
I ( 9 ) There shall be an expansion loop on the aerial cable at all riser poles.
(10) All expansion loops will be of the flat bottom type with the "flat" portion being no
less than 15 cable diameters or 12" long whichever is greater. These loops shall be
formed using the Jackson Communications bending tool or an equivalent. The
bending radius shall not be less than manufacturer's recommended minimum bending
radius.
(11) The splicer shall observe the following steps in forming the expansion loop:
a) All cable tails shall be arranged in a manner which would not "box" the pole in.
Final check is splicers' responsibility.
b) Maintain the lashing wire tension while unwrapping it to move the lashing wire
clamp. Poor handling of the lashing wire by the splicer will cause looseness,
twisting, and separations between cable and strand. This is not acceptable (no
lashing wire grips permitted).
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c After the lashingwire clampis securelyr
anstalled, the lashing wire shall be
wrapped twice around the strand, following its bonding direction, before
terminating in the clamp.
d) When securing lashing wire to the cable lashing wire clamp, care should be taken
in securing lashing wire so that the clamp does not cut the wire, thereby releasing
' it. The lashing wire shall go between the two washers and be wrapped no more
than one-half turn then 3 times around the nut side. When double lashing, the two
wires should be separated by the interior washer. The nut on the washer side
should be tightened to secure the wire.
e) When the lashing wire is securely fastened, the end of the lashing wire shall not be
' exposed. It shall be tucked inside the cable lashing clamp. No end of wire shall
protrude from the clamp.
f) The splicer shall use a forming tool to form all expansion loops.
g) At cable loops, the band and spacer closest to the pole or device must be tight.
The band and spacer at the other end of the loop will be left loose enough to allow
the cable to move with expansion or contraction.
h) If the loop consists of more than one (1) cable, an extra strap shall be placed at its
bottom to hold the cable together. Loops of .875" or larger cable shall not be
formed together with those of smaller diameter cables unless the larger cable can
' be positioned on top. In such cases, the strap shall be loosely installed.
(12) The center conductor shall be clean of any remnants of dielectric or foreign materials
prior to installing cables in connectors. Do not use a knife to remove any remaining
residue and do not remove the copper cladding. Use Owner approved center
conductor cleaner (Lemco model #Y 190).
(13) Housing to housing adapters and right angle fittings shall be used in all locations
where necessary. No reverse loops will be allowed. Extension right angle, 180
degrees, or housing to housing adapters shall be used only where necessary for proper
clearance.
(14) All devices shall be strand mounted or supported by a special standoff bracket when
the housing mount cannot be used, or when interconnected to another device by a
housing to housing connector. Support brackets shall not extend below the
equipment being supported.
(15) The center conductor seizing screw port caps of all passive devices, shall be
accessible for testing purposes.
■ (16) In the event a cable terminator is installed at the end of a feeder or trunk where no tap
exists, a cable spacer and strap shall be installed within two inches (2') of the
terminator to avoid the possibility of kinked cable. The end of the terminator shall be
tilted up slightly.
(17) Any passive device at the end of a line will be terminated with a five-eighth inch
(5/8") entry terminator if the device is not already internally terminated.
(18) The splicer shall reform any expansion loop he/she has distorted in the process of
installing a passive or active device, to the specifications required using an approved
forming tool.
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' (19) The splicer shall not reform any expansion loops that are distorted while resplicing an
upgrade plant.
(20) All torques and tightening sequences as specified by manufacturers shall be used in
' tightening down all amplifier lids, passive device covers and coaxial cable connectors.
Manufactures specifications to be provided by Owner.
(21) All connectors will be tightened with a wrench and not with channel locks.
IU. Buried Plant Sn i 'ng
A. General Procedures
( 1 ) Same as aerial splicing procedures 1 and 2.
' ( 2 ) All active and passive equipment will be situated inside the pedestals in a manner that
is accessible for service and hook up.
( 3 ) The splicer shall ensure that the pedestal is free of trash resulting from the splicing
' process and properly closed after the splicing is completed.
B. Splicing Procedures
( 1 ) Same as aerial splicing procedures 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 17, 20 and 21.
( 2 ) The splicer shall use an approved solvent to fully remove the flooding compound on
the cable before connector installation. Solvent provided by Contractor.
( 3 ) All passive and active devices shall be securely mounted to the pedestal, using
appropriate brackets. Taps should be mounted at a height in accordance with
manufactures specifications.
( 4 ) The splicer shall complete the bonding and grounding as specified in Section III, H.
I ( S ) All housing to housing and 90 connectors shall be weatherproofed with Owner
approved materials.
( 6 ) Entry connectors to amplifiers, multi-taps and all other devices in both the trunk and
' feeder system shall be protected against moisture by heat shrink.
( 7 ) Heat shrink shall extend over any housing lip designed to facilitate moisture proofing
of a connector and at least three inches (3") and not more than four inches (4") past
the proper sealing. Care shall be taken not to overheat the heat shrink thereby
causing damage to cable dielectric and fitting o-rings.
d III. Upgrade Splicing- Aerial
A. General Procedures
( 1 ) Same as Aerial Splicing, General Procedures 1, 2, 3 and 4.
( 2 ) It is desired that all equipment replacement be completed with the least disturbance
possible to existing cables and drops.
( 3 ) Old taps will be cut out of existing plant at the back nut of existing connector, or you
may remove existing connectors and rework the cable.
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' ( 4 ) Contractor is required to use a gauge to measure the center conductor to insure the
correct type of connector is installed on the coaxial cables.
' ( 5 ) Extension connectors will be used as needed to limit splices in cables.
( 6 ) Pin connectors will be utilized in all cases.
( 7 ) All active drops will get a new connector.
' B. Splicing Procedures -
' ( 1 ) Same as Aerial Splicing Procedures 1, 3, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20 and 21.
( 2 ) Wherever possible, it is our intent to reuse the existing expansion loops. Due to a
lack of excess cable at most locations, this procedure may require removal of the
' existing fitting as opposed to cutting off the fitting and re-preparing for connectors
the cables or the use of extension connectors.
( 3 ) Expansion loops should be placed in feeder "jumper" cables connecting splices and
devices across a pole, no jumper cable will be shorter than 48".
( 4 ) All existing loops are to be inspected for damaged cable.
_If no damage is discovered, use existing loops.
_ If cable is damaged, cut this loop out and splice in a piece of cable.
( 5 ) Always re-inspect cables after work is completed to ensure no kinks, etc. have been
introduced during splicing procedure.
( 6 ) All equipment locations will be dictated by design prints.
( 7 ) Equipment is to be connected together with housing to housing connectors wherever
possible to avoid short cable jumpers.
( 8 ) All equipment (not including connectors) will be installed at least six inches (6") and
no more than forty-eight (48) inches from the nearest edge of pole. In some cases,
this may require separating the equipment to both sides of the pole. It may also be
necessary to place cable jumpers to relocated devices to comply with this
specification.
t ( 9 ) Stainless steel straps and spacers will be used in all splicing. Existing stainless steel
straps and spacers will be used if in serviceable condition.
(10) The Contractor is responsible for physically inspecting all cable and hardware within
five (5) feet from the nearest edge of the pole, or two (2) feet past the furthermost
piece of equipment, whichever is greater. The Contractor is also responsible for
making a reasonable visual inspection of all cable and hardware ten (10) feet from
each side of the pole. If the Contractor finds any defects upon its physical or visual
inspection, then it will take such steps as are necessary to correct the defect.
' (11) Equipment will placed in location vacated by old equipment, unless otherwise
approved.
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IIV. Upgrade Splicing - Buried
A. General Procedures
( 1 ) Same as Buried Splicing General Procedures 1, 2 and 3.
' (2 ) Same as Upgrade Splicing Aerial General Procedures 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.
B. SplicingProceduru
1
( 1 ) Same as Aerial Splicing Procedures 1, 12, 13, 16, 17, 20 and 21.
' ( 2 ) Same as Buried Splicing Procedures 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
( 3 ) Same as Upgrade Aerial Splicing Procedures 2, 6, 7 and 8.
(4 ) All passive and/or active equipment locations shall be securely fastened to the -
enclosure using appropriate bolts and/or brackets.
( 5 ) If existing coaxial cables are too short to splice and connectors are not accessible, the
cable will need to be extended, using extension connectors or splicing in jumpers. For
splicing purposes, the definition of"accessible connector" shall be - the lowest device
shall be no lower than two inches (2") above the edge of enclosure.
( 6 ) Existing enclosures are to be utilized except in cases where new splicing
configuration does not allow equipment to fit in present enclosure, or damaged
enclosures.
( 7 ) All active drops that are too short due to relocation of directional taps shall be
extended. Owner provides house drop jumpers.
( 8 ) All enclosures are to be equipped with Owner approved locking device.
( 9 ) Oversized enclosures will be replaced with enclosure sized appropriately for
equipment installed.
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SECTION V
Power Supply Installation
Snetiticatiens and Pro edure
( 1 ) Contractor is to obtain all necessary permits and approvals prior to beginning the
work.
( 2 ) Personnel performing the work shall meet all state, county, and city codes pertaining
to the installation of commercial electrical service.
( 3 ) All work performed by the contractor shall be done in accordance with the local
electrical code, utility company's specifications, National Electric Code (NEC) and
National Electric Safety Code as adopted by the local utility company, and
specifications.
( 4 ) All power supplies shall be properly grounded and bonded in accordance with the
local utility company specifications and specifications.
( 5 ) At no point shall the contractor change any of the specifications or procedures
without prior approval from
( 6 ) All service head equipment shall have a minimum clearance of 18 inches above the
CATV strand.
( 7 ) Service entrance conduit shall be 1/2 inch thinwall conduit with compression
connectors and/or couplings. It shall be supported within 3 feet of each connector,
coupling, or service head with the appropriate clamp. The conduit shall be attached
to the meter base using a standard LB connector.
( 8 ) Service entrance conductors shall be #12 solid copper, unless otherwise specified.
( 9 ) The meter base shall be installed a minimum of 6 feet from the base of the pole and
grounded with #6 soft drawn copper encased by 1/2 inch thinwall conduit in a direct
downward path to the CATV ground rod.
(10) A 5/86 by 8' ground rod shall be installed at each power supply location 3 inches
below ground level. The ground rod clamp shall be treated with an antioxidation
compound (Penetrox E) at the attachment point. The point of attachment shall be
made at 4 inches below ground level. A bonding jumper shall be installed from the
CATV ground rod to the power ground at the base of the pole using #6 solid copper.
(11) An Owner approved service disconnect box shall be installed 6 to 12 inches above the
meter base and equipped with an Owner approved 20 amp breaker. There shall be a
minimum of 12 inches clearance between the service disconnect and the power supply
housing. The service disconnect shall be properly marked by the contractor.
(12) Each entrance for conductors to a metal closure shall be protected by a plastic or
nylon bushing. All metal enclosures shall be bonded according to code.
(13) The power supply housing shall be installed a minimum of 10 feet or a maximum of
12 feet from the base of the pole. There should be a minimum of 40 inches clearance
from the top of the power supply housing to the CATV strand unless otherwise
indicated by
(14) The top mounting bracket shall be installed using a 5/8 inch machine bolt. The
bottom mounting bracket shall be installed using a 4 inch lag bolt.
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(15) The power supply housing shall be grounded from the ground attachment in a direct
downward path to the CATV ground rod using #6 solid copper from the base of the
pole to the bottom of the power supply housing, using ground wire molding.
(16) In the event any weatherproof flexible metal conduit is installed, it shall be properly
supported and a separate #12 solid copper ground wire will be installed.
(17) Installation of an underground power supply housings shall be done in accordance
with the attached drawings.
(18) All sod, plants and fixtures, disturbed during installation shall be restored to its
original condition and to a satisfactory condition for the Owner, landowner or any
other party responsible for the condition of the property.
(19) The power supply address shall be noted on the pole or the power supply housing,
and be visible from the ground.
POWER SUPPLY
INSTALLATION MATERIALS
PROVIDED BY
(1) 1 - 8 FOOT GROUND ROD
(2) 25 FEET#6 SOFT DRAWN COPPER
(3) 1 - GROUND ROD CLAMP
(4) 1 - 16" MACHINE BOLT
(5) 10 FEET GROUND WIRE MOLDING
(6) 1 - 4" LAG SCREW
(7) 2 - SQUARE WASHERS
(8) 1 - 20 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER
(9) 1 - POWER SUPPLY HOUSING(WHEN APPLICABLE)
(10) 1 - U/G MOUNTING BASE (WHEN APPLICABLE)
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SECTION VI
System Alignment Specification'
' A. General Procedures
I I ( 1 ) Appropriate test equipment will be approved by the Owner and shall be used to align
and record the system signal levels.
( 2 ) Test equipment should be calibrated on a weekly basis to ensure accuracy.
( 3 ) Great care shall be taken while transporting the electronic equipment to field
destinations to avoid physical and/or water damage.
B. Rough Balance_Procedures
1 ( 1 ) Manufacturer's specifications and recommended procedures shall be observed in
opening and closing amplifier housings, inserting modules and aligning the amplifiers.
( 2 ) Amplifier level analysis sheets shall be used for reference in aligning amplifiers.
I ( 3 ) Outside plant shall be activated and rough balanced according to the following
description:
a) Insertion of all active amplifier modules into the previously placed housings.
' b) Activation of all 60 volt power supplies and appropriate documentation.
c) Measurements of AC and regulated DC voltages at each amplifier location.
d) Proper selection of pads and equalizers and set up of gain and slope in manual and
AGC modes to achieve an output signal to within plus or minus 2 dB of the
system design specifications.
e) Repair of any defects in materials or workmanship to allow the previously
mentioned tolerances to be met.
f) Provide documentation sheets for each amplifier, showing:
' - AC in and out
- DC operating regulated voltage
- Pad and equalizer values forward (54-750MHz)Reverse (5-42MHz)
- Any deviation from level analysis sheets, if available
- Power direction
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SECTION VII
Construction Materia s fin ifkations Provided_ iwjier
A. moral
( 1 ) All forged steel and iron hardware used shall be hot dipped galvanized.
( 2 ) All copper clad hardware used shall not have less than 15 mils thickness of copper
coating and shall not have extensive electroplating pits.
( 3 ) All wood products used shall be pressure treated to not less than 10 pounds of
preservative per cubic foot of wood.
(4 ) All other hardware materials not specified above (paragraph 1,2,3) shall be corrosive
t protected to the environment and have a life expectancy of at least 20 years.
( 5 ) Owner may change Construction Materials Specifications as may be deemed
' necessary by Owner.
B. Support Hardware
( 1 ) Anchors and Guy Wires
a) Anchors shall be six inches (6") screw type, galvanized, with a five foot (5') rod
' or 8-way expanding anchors with a 6' galvanized rod or as required by the local
utility companies.
b) Guy wire shall be the same as the supporting strand when the guy has a lead over
' height ratio of 1/2 or better.
c) Guys shall be attached to standard pole line hardware and anchor rods using
preform dead-ends.
' ( 2 ) Bonding and Grounding
a) Ground rods shall be five-eighths inch by eight feet (5/8" x 8') copper clad steel
' rods.
b) Ground wire shall be #6AWG solid soil drawn bare copper wire.
c) Ground wire staples shall be copper or copper clad.
d) Ground rod clamps shall be bronze, using a non-galvanic locking bolt.
e) All bonding clamps shall be of non-galvanic materials or have special bi-metal
' spacers used in connectors to prevent corrosion when bonding two dissimilar
metals.
f) Ground wire molding shall be of plastic material.
(3 ) Bolts
a) All machine and thimble eye bolts shall be five-eighth inch (5/8") size, 12,400 lb..
' minimum tensile strength with cone ends.
b) All suspension clamps shall be of the three bolt, flat back variety.
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( 4 ) Lashing wire
' a) Lashing wire shall be .045 inch, alloy 302 or 316 stainless steel, unless otherwise
specified by the owner.
( 5 ) Strand
' a) All strand shall be 1/4" 7 strand extra high strength class A galvanized for normal
cable runs, unless otherwise specified by Owner. -
b) 5/16" strand shall be used for all multiple trunk runs or any run which consists of
5 or more cables, unless otherwise specified by Owner.
' ( 6 ) Support Straps
a) The cable support straps shall be stainless steel.
' C. Cable
( 1 ) All coaxial cable will be capable of passing the frequency spectrum of 5 MHz through
1 GHz.
' ( 2 ) All coaxial cable shall have a minimum return loss before installation, using narrow
band sweep, of 30 dB.
( 3 ) Jacketed coaxial cable with flooding compound shall be used for all buried
' construction through conduits and direct burial.
( 4 ) Jacketed coaxial cable with flooding compound shall be used for all direct buried
plant construction.
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SECTION VIII
Aerial Fiber Optic Construction Specifications
Aerial Installations - All of the general techniques and methods of aerial installations which have been
outlined for coaxial cable installation can be applied for fiber optic cables.
General
A. All fiber will be double lashed.
B. Fiber will lay parallel with the strand, do not follow the coaxial expansion loops.
C. Two (2) straps and spacers shall be evenly placed on the fiber within the coaxial expansion
loop.
II. Reel Handling and Inspection
A. Inspect fiber cable reels for flange protrusions, irregularities, or structural damage which
could be a hazard to the fiber cable sheath.
B. Inspect the fiber cable for any external damage prior to loading on a cable trailer.
C. Load cable trailers with care to protect the fiber cable of any damage, a lifting device is
recommended.
D. Make sure fiber cable is properly secured on the trailer for transporting fiber cable to the
field.
III. Installation - Back Pull Method or Stationary Reel Method
A. Protect the work area by placing warning signs, flags, or other warning devices at
appropriate points to alert vehicles and pedestrians.
B. Installation of fiber cable is identical to the methods used in the installation of coaxial cables.
C. Remove all cable support straps during the back pull of fiber cable to eliminate any possible
damage to the fiber cable jacket.
D. The use of tension release device or breakaway swivel rated for the manufacturer's
specifications will be required at all times.
E. The fiber cable on the reel trailer will require a man (reel spinner) to spin the reel to eliminate
any tension during the installation of the fiber cable.
F. Radio communications between both ends of the operation will be required to protect the
installation of the fiber cable.
G. The storage of excess fiber cable (slack points) will be the figure 8 method. The slack point
will be placed in the middle of the span, using appropriate straps and spacers. (See Sketch).
H. During the lash back of fiber cables, as-built fiber cable footage will be recorded at the slack
point storage of excess fiber cable and at riser pole location.
Exhibit A Page 25 of 51
c:kont-exa
Contract Effective Data
laitials
initials
IV. Installation -Drive Off Method or_Movin2 Red Method
A. Protect the work area by placing warning signs, flags, or other warning devices at
appropriate points to alert vehicles and pedestrians.
B. The fiber cable on the reel trailer will require a man (red spinner) to spin the reel to
eliminate any tension during the installation of the fiber cable.
C. Radio communications between the aerial lift basket and the truck will be required to
protect the installation of the fiber cable.
D. The pulling lines for the fiber cable fisher are attached to the cable trailer or truck body.
DO NOT ATTACH TO THE BOOM OR BASKET.
E. The storage of excess fiber cable and the recording as-built fiber cable footage are the same
as the Back Pull Method.
V. Inner Duct
A. Aerial inner duct shall be double lashed.
B. The ends will be sealed with owner approved sealant.
C. The end of the conduit shall extend past the pole to the strap and spacer on the far side. (See
Sketch)
VI. Fiber Cable Security
A. The security of the fiber cable shall be maintained at all times.
B. Should fiber cable need to be left out overnight, a security guard will be used at the
discretion of the contractor.
Exhibit A Page 26 of 51
::kont-exa
Cantrad EQaavc Deis
ktuali
laitials
SECTION IX
Buried Fiber Optic Construction Specifications
Installation - Buried Fiber Cable
A. Protect the work area by placing warning signs, flags, or other warning devices at
appropriate points to slat vehicles and pedestrians.B. Installation of fiber cable will be monitored with an approved monitoring device
(dynamometer) at all times during installation.
C. The same type of conduit shall be installed continuously from the buried plant up the utility
pole. When flexible conduit (cable-con) is used, conduit shall extend onto the strand to
within four inches (4") of the cable lashing clamp. At locations where fiber cable only is
lashed to strand, flexible conduit will extend onto the strand three feet (3). Stainless steel
straps will affix the conduit to the strand a minimum of every six inches (6") and within two
inches (2") of the conduit end. All fiber optics cables and conduits will be covered by
galvanized steel guard from six inches (6") below ground level to within twenty-four inches
(24") of the strand attachment position. Multiple galvanized steel guards will be covered by
an appropriately sized PVC guard, as specified by Owner. Spare conduits will extend four
feet (4') above ground level and be covered by one (1) section of galvanized steel guard. All
conduit ends will be sealed with split rubber cap, cable-con type cap, or foam sealant.
D. Vault locations and slack storage device installation instructions will be provided by Owner
at time of installation.
E. The fiber cable on the reel trailer will require a man (reel spinner) to spin the reel to eliminate
any tension during the installation of the fiber cable.
F. Radio communications between both ends of the operation will be required to protect the
installation of the fiber cable.
G. During the installation of the fiber cable, all as-built fiber cable footage will be recorded at
riser locations, pull boxes, and slack storage locations.
H. Fiber cable markers will be installed periodically along the trench to identify routing.
I. Burial tape is to be placed twelve inches (12") above fiber cable or conduit.
II. Figure Eight (8)Method
A. Protect the work area by placing warning signs, flags, or other warning devices at
appropriate points to alert vehicles or pedestrians.
B. Pull the fiber cable off the cable reel and place the fiber cable on the ground in a figure eight
(8). Place safety cones in a manner to keep the figure eight (8) in an orderly manner, the
bigger the figure eight (8) the easier the installation.
C. During the installation of fiber cable from the figure eight (8) the fiber cable will be paid off
by an individual to eliminate the possibility of kinking the fiber cable.
D. Radio communications between both ends of the operation will be required to protect the
installation of the fiber cable.
Exhibit A Page 27 of 51
c:l\cont-exa
Contra Effective Date
li iva.s
1mtuL
M. Fiber Cable Security
The security of the fiber cable shall be maintained at all times. Should fiber cable need to be left
out overnight, a security guard will be used at the discretion of the contractor.
w
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1
I
Exhibit A Page 28 of 51
c:kont-eca
Ccetract Metric Date
Initials
Initials
SECTION X
Fusion Snllcing Specificatiopa
GOAL:
The goal for fusion splicing is to obtain clean low loss fusion splices. Splice closures will be installed in
compliance with manufacturer's specifications and organized in a uniform manner with workmanship a
priority. The purpose of the procedures is to ensure full protection of the fibers for trouble free splices
forever.
a SPLICE LOSS;
The maximum allowance is .05 dB splice loss, or better, per splice. Total splice loss in any given link will
I meet link loss budget requirements. Final verification will be bi-directional OTDR proofing at 1310 and
1550 manometer wavelengths.
CLEAN SPLICE;
IAll splices must be free of bubbles, spots with good core alignment.
I
Exhibit A Page 29 of 51
c:'cont-cxa
it
Contract Effective Date
laitial�
Initials
SECTION XI
MultipleDw ing Units - Specifications and Sket hea
GENERAL PROCEDURES:
1. It is extremely important that each job be evaluated prior to commencing construction. No work
will be conducted without a work order in accordance with Exhibit E. The proper materials, tools
and safety equipment must be used to perform each given task; this ensures a safe and efficient
work environment.
2. Any changes made to a design will be indicated on the contractor's print and signed by Time
Warner Cable (TWC). Contractor will not change design without approval by a TWC field
representative.
3. All installations shall be made in accordance with the National Electrical code. A CATV fire
resistant cable is to be used from tap to the TV set. For other uses such as risers, ducts, plenum,
elevator shafts, and other air handling spaces, consult TWC for type of cables. All coaxial cables
will be supplied by owner.
4. All customer complaints and TWC field requests must be addressed within 2 hours and must be
completed within 72 hours.
I
?REPLANNING
Ii. Contractor will provide TWC with a reasonable construction start and completion date.
Construction must be completed by given date or TWC will be notified in advance.
I2. A meeting with the building owner or association and the contractor must be arranged to inspect
internal and external utilities, communication lines, sprinkler systems, landscaping, asphalt,
' concrete, and house lighting. This will eliminate potential damage claims.
3. The owners and management staff must be notified five working days prior to starting
' construction. This is to arrange access into each unit, if needed, and make personal changes to
accommodate our construction needs.
I4. Contractor to ensure that all materials are present before start of project so work can proceed in a
timely manner.
Exhibit A Page 30 of 51
c:lcont-e a
I
r
Contract Effective Data
laitials
initials
5. Care and pride should be taken when routing exterior cables. Vertical and horizontal runs must
be straight and neat. Horizontal rugs should be placed extremely high on the structure and as
close to the cave as possible. The vertical cable should be run in the corners (See Fig. B).
6. Take precautions to avoid kinking, rushing, stretching, or nicking the wire. If the cable is
damaged during the installation procedure, it must be replaced back to the pedestal or lock box.
7. All drops must be securely fastened to the structure at intervals no greater than 30 inches. The
fastener and/or anchor type shall be approved by the MDU coordinator prior to construction The
drops shall then be covered with molding.
8. Use one molding riser to feed two units (See Fig. A). Angle drill from molding into each unit.
The penetration point on the inside of the apartment should be slightly higher than that of the -
outside, this is to prevent water from migrating along the cable into the unit. Contractor shall
ensure that all power, telephone wiring, water pipes, pocket doors and gas lines in the walls are
identified and protected. This shall include the use of mechanical blue prints, locators, ground
fault interrupters and test holes.
9. Use of molding riser to include the distribution cable and drop cables (See Fig. C). Must have 6"
drip loop at all entry points.
10. All open ends and intersecting joints shall be mitered and sealed with silicone caulk(See Fig. D).
11. All external F-type connectors, splices and splitters should be of the outdoor type and properly
weather sealed.
12. All drops are to be tagged in lock boxes and pedestals.
13. Each time a unit is penetrated, a feed through bushing must be used in conjunction with a silicone
sealant.
14. When cables are installed through fire walls, the walls must be sleeved with EMT conduit in
accordance with NEC. Drops are then installed through the EMT and sealed with an appropriate
fire stop.
15. Wall plates are required for every outlet installation Wall plates with an F-81 connector are to be
mounted at the same height as the electric outlet or 14" from the floor to the bottom of the plate.
16. Each wall plate should be fastened with two #8 X 3/4" Hex Screw and anchors.
17. In the event of two or more outlets in any apartment, an appropriate splitter or directional
coupler can be installed behind a wall plate or in any concealed location.
18. When installing outlets on an adjacent wall, a stud must separate all back to back outlets.
Exhibit A Page 31 d 51
c:kont-exa
Caatraci Effective Date
lnitula
lnitiala
19. The drop cable must be tucked along the baseboard beside the tack strip of the carpeting. If no
carpet, attach cable to baseboard with clips and anchors.
20. If the cable must cross a doorway, drop cable should be routed up and around the door frame
with screws and cable clips at no greater than 12" intervals. A signed form that unconditionally
releases TWC of all liability must be obtained from the home owner whenever cable crosses a
doorway or is routed under carpet. -
21. If drilling through a carpeted floor becomes necessary, cut a small (1/2") "X" in the carpet before
drilling. This will allow the drill to pass through the carpet without unraveling. A feed through
bushing will seal the hole and hold down the carpet.
22. If a wallfish is necessary, contact a TWC field inspector. Do not commence work without written -
permission.
23. If the project has a bulk contract, the unit must be set up with appropriate services. If the unit is
vacant or no television exists, a six foot jumper must be left.
24. Install F-connectors on interior cable carefully and correctly, according to DROP
CONNECTOR SPECIFICATIONS.
25. All old wires, molding clips, screws and tie wraps must be removed from the structure. The holes
must be patched and sealed.
26. Port terminators will be installed on all unused tap ports.
27. All equipment, includingactives and passives, must be mounted to plywood backing when inside
eq P
lock box.
lock All knockouts on 1 k boxes must be sealed with RTV.
I29. Drops will be tie wrapped together in ped or lock box in a neat and orderly fashion.
I 30. Clean up any parts, tools, or debris before leaving the unit. Always leave the area you work in as
clean as it was before you arrived.
31. Contractor will "sniff' completed work for CLI compliance and document results.
Exhibit A Page 32 of 51
Ic:lcont<xa
r
Contract Effective Pete
Initials
Initials
I LOCK BOX LOCATIONS;
1 1. All lock boxes are to be installed in design designated locations. Changes will not be made
without the written permission of a TWC representative.
4' fromgroundbox. Exceptions
xshould mounted level to the bottom of the
2. All lock boxes beP
must be approved prior to placement.
I 3" When mounting the lock box, care should be taken not to obstruct any of the existing facilities.
Minimum distance from existing boxes is 2".
I4. Each box must be securely fastened with an anchoring system approved by the MDU coordinator.
S. All equipment, including actives, passives, deletion filters, signal processors, etc., must be
I
mounted to the plywood backing.
I 6. Where new drops are routed to a lock box location, they will be left with excess tail equivalent to
the circumference of the apartment box.
' 7. Drops wil be left with a 4 1/2" loop (excess slack) after cut in at upgraded apartment box
locations.
I
8. If a lock box is being removed from the structure, the building must be patched and painted to the
reasonable satisfaction of the owner.
9. If a lock box is being replaced, install the new lock box in the same location as the previous box.
Any penetration or cracks caused by the box removal must be patched and sealed prior to
' installing the new box.
10. A TWC field representative must be contacted prior to removing a lock box with an AC electric
' outlet.
11. All lock boxes will have a bead of RTV around it to seal it to the wall. All knockouts will have
' RTV.
ISPECIAL NOTE; Upgrade drop configuration includes, but is not limited to:
1) Change of all "F" type connectors.
2) Network (splitter) rework
3) Bonding or grounding
4) Drop tagging
Exhibit A Page 33 of 51
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