10/22/07 Information and Technology Committee

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October 22, 2007 Information and Technology Committee Page 2 The Council Attorney inquired whether the City Administration has reviewed the local cable television regulations codified in the South Bend Municipal Code as to whether there are any other options available. Mr. Leone stated that his department has not reviewed those provisions, assuming that they too have been superseded by state law, but he would do so. Mayor Luecke stated that the Indiana Legislature believed that the state law changes were intended to "put Indiana in the forefront of televising community services". It streamlines the process with ancillary benefits being recognized. December 15th is the final date for broadcasting of 3~d party's tapes by Comcast. He noted that Mishawaka and Elkhart have declined to have such services offered under a third party provider. Mayor Luecke added that he has had discussions with WNIT, but has not had sufficient time to review all options. He stated that it is his understanding that "whoever operates the PEG channel cannot restrict programming content", including obscene material. In response to a question from Council Member Kirsits, the Mayor noted that ATT has not been contacted as another provider of such services with Comcast being the only company having a franchise agreement with the city. Dr. Varner stated that WNIT has expressed in interest in hosting the PEG channel, noting that fees would be involved for such services. He also noted that based on his research libraries are also used to host. At this point there is no public access for governmental functions in South Bend. Dr. Varner suggested the it would be his recommendation to have the Board of Public Works look into this, since they are the contracting agency for the City and since they approved the current franchise agreement with Comcast. In response to questions from Dr. Varner to Mr. Gilot, Mr. Gilot stated that he could have a quote prepared within a week to ten (10) days. He would also check into the budget numbers of revenues received by the city from Comcast. Legal advertisement for quotes would then take place. Council Member White noted that she has received a number of inquires voicing their concerns since they are current users of this channel and provide video broadcasts. Mayor Luecke stated that they can continue to have their tapes broadcast until December 15th, but not tapes after that date will be broadcast by Comcast.