HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-CABLECOMM-1995 MINUTES
Jan 9, 1995
City of Ithaca Cable Commission
Public Access Committee Pro Tempore
Organizational Meeting
• Call to order 7: 35 PM
Present: - Harvey Gitlin (PAC Chair) ; Lynn Andersen, Harel
Barzalai , Jill Brantley, Patricia Button, Joseph Edkin, Jean
Finlay (Cable Commission Chair) , Jeff Hetzel , Doria Higgins,
Will Kone, Rick Lawrence, Bill McCormick, Robin Palmer, Lauren
Stefanelli (TWC rep) , Jim Blizzard (as member of the public)
Jim Blizzard addressed committee as a member of the public,
calling for clarification of first-come first served policy with
respect the status of the public access time allocation for new
producers.
Bill McCormick ' s proposal condemning the lottery as a method for
assignment of cablecasting time, and citing the Cable Commission
and TWC access administration for their oversight, was
introduced (appended to the minutes and identified as resolution
#3) . It was moved by Bill McCormick, seconded by Joe Edkin and
rejected 6-1 by voting members Brantley, Edkin, Gitlin, Hetzel ,
Kone, and Palmer, with Mr. McCormick as the sole dissenting
vote.
The participants present at the meeting represented a number
of new candidates, as well as volunteers who, for various
reasons, had been unable to attend one or both of the previous
meetings during which the composition of the committee had been
discussed and tentatively resolved. For this reason the body of
the meeting consisted of an extensive consideration of this
question, culminating in the following proposal , which was
passed 6-1 by voting members Brantley, Edkin, Gitlin, Hetzel ,
Kone, and Palmer, with Bill McCormick casting the dissenting
vote.
Resolution #4: Moved that we increase the pro tempore committee
to 13 members and close the application procedure as of the next
official meeting. The present voting membership, consisting of
members Brantley, Edkin, Gitlin, Hetzel , Kone, McCormick, and
Palmer will operate as the voting body until it fills the
remaining positions at the next meeting.
Final announcement by Jean Finlay, regarding State Cable
Commission representatives coming to Ithaca on January 24. (?)
Next PAC meeting scheduled for Monday January 30 at 7: 30 at the
GIAC.
Meeting Adjourned 9:05 PM
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MINUTES
Jan 30, 1995
City of Ithaca Cable Commission
Public Access Committee Pro Tempore
Call to order 7 : 35 PM
Present: - Harvey Gitlin (PAC Chair) ; Lynn Andersen, Harel
Barzalai , Jill Brantley, Joseph Edkin, Benjamin Fan, Jean Finlay
(Cable Commission Chair) , Jeff Hetzel , Will Kone, Rick Lawrence,
Robin Palmer ,
Jim Blizzard and Bill McCormick (as members of the public)
Public Comment: Bill McCormick introduced a statement suggesting
that the PAC develop a long term agenda for the systematic
exchange of information with volunteers . This would include not
only local access policy information but correspondence
regarding national access policies and issues . His statement
will be appended to the minutes if available. An ombudsman for
the purpose of mediation of access disputes and creative
solutions to policy issues was also suggested.
Final Voting Membership of PAC: - Bill McCormick had resigned as
a voting member at the end of the previous meeting and Lynn
Andersen indicated that she would be unable to serve as a voting
member due to forthcoming travel committments . The voting
membership for the pro tempore committee was officially closed
at 9 members and established by the consent of the previously
designated voting members as follows :
Harvey Gitlin (chair) , Harel Barzalai , Jill Brantley, Joseph
Edkin, Benjamin Fan, Jeff Hetzel , Will Kone, Rick Lawrence, and
Robin Palmer
Jean Finlay ( ICCC) , Rick Gray (Common Council ) , and Lauren
Stefanelli (TWC) remain non-voting advisory liason members
Resolutions:- Resolutions numbered 6 through 11 regarding the
operation of the Pro tempore PAC were submitted by members
Edkin , Kone and Hetzel , and were discussed, amended and voted
upon. The final (amended) draft of these resolutions will be
appended to the minutes . A summary of the voting follows:
Number Brief Title' Moved by Seconded Vote
#6 Statement of Priority Lawrence Hetzel unanimous
#7 Quorum Resolution Kone Brantley unanimous
#8 Minority Opinions Kone Lawrence unanimous
#9 Acting Chair Resolution Fan Barzalai 8-1 in favor
with Rick Lawrence dissenting
#10Committee Minutes Gitlin Hetzel unanimous
#11Sub-committee Formation Kone Hetzel unanimous
Resolution #12 , designater the Tied Vote Resolution was tabled
for the next meeting
Next PAC meeting scheduled for Monday February 20 at 7 : 30 at the
County Office Bldg if available (Jim Blizzard will check) , or
other location to be announced by chair.
Meeting Adjourned 9 : 03 PM
Resolutions presented by Edkin,Hetzel,and Kone 2/8/95
page 1
Resolutions passed by the pro tempore Public Access Committee on 1/30/95
RESOLUTION#6
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE STATEMENT OF PRIORITY RESOLUTION
The pro tempore Public Access Committee resolves that its main priority is to set the rules by which
the ongoing Public Access Committee will operate and that this business takes precedence over all
other business that it may discuss. Furthermore,the pro tempore PAC resolves to have the rules of
permanent PAC operations in place by the end of March, 1995.
RESOLUTION#7
PRO TEMPORE QUORUM RESOLUTION
In order to assure reasonable discussion on any issues brought before the pro tem Public Access
Committee,a quorum of at least fifty-one percent of the active voting members of the pro tern
committee must be present at a meeting to pass resolutions.
RESOLUTION#8
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE MINORITY OPINIONS RESOLUTION
When the pro tern Public Access Committee passes a resolution which advises the Ithaca City Cable
Commission,a minority opinion may be attached in writing to the resolution. Only voting members
of the pro tern PAC may write minority opinions,and the written statement must be signed by its
author(s).
RESOLUTION#9
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE ACTING CHAIR RESOLUTION
In the event that the chair of the pro tempore Public Access Committee is unable to fulfill his or her
duties,the chair may appoint a voting member of the pro tem PAC as acting chair to run meetings or
carry out any other orders of business. If the chair is unable to appoint an acting chair in time for a
metting,the voting members of the quorum my elect an acting chair for that meeting.
Resolutions presented by Edkin,Hetzel,and Kone 2/8/95
page 2
RESOLUTION#10
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE MINUTES RESOLUTION
The chair person,or their delegate,of the pro tempore Public Access Committee shall deliver
approved minutes of each meeting to the Ithaca City Clerk.
RESOLUTION#11
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE SUB-COMMITTEE FORMATION
RESOLUTION
The pro tempore Public Access Committee may appoint by simple majority of the voting members of
the pro tem PAC and disband by two-thirds majority of the voting members of the pro tem PAC,
sub-committees to do research and make recommendations as the pro tem PAC deems necessary. The
size and responsibilities of sub-committees will be left to the discretion of the pro tem PAC. The
chair may also reserve the right to form,but not disband,sub-committees. Deadlines for reports to
the pro tern PAC are at the discretion of the pro tern PAC and members of the sub-committee may
attach alternate opinions to the sub-committee's report. The pro tem PAC may add members to a
sub-committee by a simple majoirty of voting members. The pro tern PAC may remove individuals
from a sub-committee by a two-thirds majority of the voting members of the pro tem PAC.
At the first meeting following the election of the ongoing Public Access Committee,all
sub-committees must be reviewed. The incoming PAC may decide by simple majority vote of the
voting members to continue or by two-thirds majority vote of the voting members to disband any
sub-committees appointed by the pro tem PAC.
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Minutes by Sally Kesn
Public Commentary
Doria Higgins Stated that the law is against a mandatory archive for
editorial control. Emphasized that state and local laws should guide the
commission.
Bill McCormick Will not be serving On the Access Advisory Board because
he felt it was "falling apart: Feels the archive violates the First
Amendment and is an action that is taken in no other medium.
Lynn Matrulis Disputes Jean Finley-s appointment as chair of the
committee. Upset over the numerous channels available which she feels
are unworthy of being on television. Supports the proposal for an archive.
Jim Blizzard Supports an archive and does not believe it interferes with
one's freedom of speech or with copyright laws. Requests a restriction on
verbal violence in future Public Access committee meetings.
Robin Supports archive proposal
Ben Nichols Defends freedom of content on public access and doesn't see
how an archive interferes with that freedom.
Meeting
*Time Warner Cable - Feels the channel 13 questionnaire on Time Warner's
performance should have been on governmental access instead of private
access. Will personally address Ms. Matrulis concerns later.
?- Has received mostly positive feedback regarding the Public Access
meetings. Feels the archive is directed primarily at Mr. McCormick.
*Jean Finley's Report - channel 13 is virtually full and channel 57 has
more on it now (however, there is still room). Volunteer workers will
hopefully alleviate the crunch. - consumer protection/customer service
standards of the state will be compared to our franchise's standards. Will
report back. - Steven Shay ....Till be here January 24th at 4pm to answer
questions of the. State Cable Commission. The Commission has said one
cannot be forced to sign over the right to record their show in order to
appear on cable access. - correspondence with Mayor: discussed support
for postage telephone copying. A memo will be corning. intern support
possible for research in certain areas. - public meetings law applicable to
Cable Commission. - complaints: S. Cummings upset that weather channel
not on channel 7 especially during the winter season [Note: the weather
criannel was not pulled of by Time Warner but was not on due to technical
dif T icultie.s] Anonymous complaint that programs catered to African
-Americans and college professors and not to whites. Jews and Catholics.
- Cable Commission training meeting took place
*Governmental Access Report: meeting Jar! 23rd, 4prn election of officers
*no Educational Access Report
*Public Access Report - more turnout than expected. Want to increase the
number of members to 13). Resolution introduced by Mr. McCormick,
rejected 6: 1 . Need unbiased group to handle scheduling problems. Next
meeting 1 /30.
*Interinstitutional Committee meeting 1 / 17 at 4pm. Commissioners
invited.
*old business - need to have an executive session to prepare for the
Committee of the ',,,d'hole meeting, decide on recommendations. After
meeting with Mr. Shau on 1 /24
*Public Access Archive - Ms. Finley's motion to neither instruct Time
Warner to construct an archive nor require producers to sign over the right
to copy as a precondition to being shown nor provide access funds for an
archive was seconded and approved unanimously. Some commissioners
reasoned that constructing an archive would be a poor use of resources,
that it would infringe on peoples freedoms., and that it is not highly
demanded.
new business - selection for 1995 officers will take place at the next
meeting. The Records Access Officer will be the City Clerk's office.
*final discussion on was to get and share more information, ie. through
the internPt.
Next Meeting: 2/ 14/95 at 7:30
REPORT TO INTER-INSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE FROM ICCC, JAN 14, 1995
The Ithaca City Cable Commission has received the communication from Time Warner
Cable asking that the Ithaca City Franchise be transferred to the new Time
Warner/Advance/Newhouse Cable company. ICCC has asked Time Warner Cable to
clarify the date of inception of the current franchise reported on FCC form 394, since it
does not match a recognizable date known to ICCC, and to allow a representative of the
City to inspect the undisclosed portions of TWC's agreement with Newhouse, etc., to
ascertain in private and in confidence whether these provisions indeed, as stated in the
document on the proposed merger to the FCC (form 394) do not relate to the franchise (or
systems competing with the franchise) in this area. TWC manager Raymond McCabe
reported at the last two cable commission meetings that negotiations are in process with
Newhouse/Advance to allow a City representative to inspect these undisclosed portions of
the agreement. We do not have an answer yet, nor do we have any clarification as to the
date in question.
Furthermore, ICCC has passed the enclosed three resolutions ("Cable Plus Charges before
Sept. 12", "Access Franchise Fee", and "Access Equipment Maintenance Charges") on points
where it feels TWC is in conflict with the law or its franchise with the City of Ithaca. These
resolutions were delivered to TWC 11/22/94. To date ICCC has received only an oral reply
from TWC General Manager Raymond McCabe stating that 1) he does not agree with the
resolutions and 2) he has passed them on to TWCs corporate legal department for reply.
In addition, ICCC is in the process of checking to determine whether TWC is complying
with the franchise at this date, especially since in its filing with the FCC on the proposed
merger (FCC for 394) TWC states it is willing to comply in any areas where TWC is or may
- be failing to do so. In this regard, ICCC has advertised for community input on Channels
13, 53, and in the Ithaca Journal, which ICCC is now in the process of collecting and
compiling, and has also scheduled a technical audit Jan.24-25 of Ithaca and the surrounding
area served by the same headend with the NYS Commission on Cable Television.
A deadline approaches in that, under the Cable Act of 1992, automatic transfer of the
franchise will take place, as far as the FCC is concerned, unless the City denies it within 120
days. The NYS Commission on Cable Television must also approve such transfer, which
it may deny for cause at the City's request, or until problem areas are resolved. The city
may also request an extension from the FCC on the grounds that TWC has not dealt with
the problems it raised as a franchiser in a timely manner.
ICCC asks, then, that
1) a further report from ICCC to common council be put on the agenda of the
Committee of the Whole next week, so that ICCC can report on the extent
of franchise problems in the City and perhaps have some preliminary word of
how the technical audit is progressing;
2) that the City officially request an extension from the FCC, on the grounds that
there are outstanding unresolved franchise-related problems on which TWC
has not gotten back to us
3) ICCC report on the technical audit at the February 1 Common Council
meeting and make a recommendation at that time to:
a) approve transfer
b) approve transfer with the following conditions
c) disapprove transfer
d) not act and ask NYSCC to approve or disapprove transfer under the
following conditions
Respectfully Submitted,
M. Jean Finley, Chair
Ithaca City Cable Commission
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable on Telephone: 607-272-3081
Fax: 607-272-7348
Resolution on "Cable Plus Charges before Sept. 12, 1994" Passed Unanimously by the
Ithaca City Cable Commission October 25, 1994
Whereas many City of Ithaca subscribers of the Time Warner Cable System elected before
Sept. 12, 1994, to subscribe to the new Cable Plus Service (including CNN, the Learning
Channel, ESPN, and Comedy Central), and
Whereas, these subscribers were changed for Cable Plus at $1.74 per month from the date
on which they ordered the service; and
Whereas all other Time Warner customers received this same Cable Plus Service (including
CNN, the Learning Channel, ESPN, and Comedy Central) free until the date of scrambling
on Sept. 12, 1994; and
Whereas legal proceedings in the State of New York have found unacceptable the practice
of a cable operator's charging subscribers who ordered a similar service (events from
Madison Square Garden) for that service while that service remained unscrambled so that
other subscribers of the same system continued to receive the service without charge; and
Whereas legal proceedings in the State of New York required the cable operator to refund
to all customers who had paid for the abovementioned programming from Madison Square
Garden all monies collected for the service during the entire period before the date when
the channel was finally scrambled;
Now therefore, the Ithaca City Cable Commission calls on Time Warner Cable immediately
to refund $1.74 per month, prorated for partial months, to all customers who were charged
for this service prior to Sept. 12, 1994, the date of scrambling.
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
Resolution on "Access Franchise Fee" Passed Unanimously by the Ithaca City Cable
Commission October 25, 1994
Whereas Franchise Fees in.excess of 5% are in violation of the federal Cable
Act of 1984 (622 (b)--unrevised in 1992); and
Whereas, the City of Ithaca charges Time Warner Cable a 5 percent franchise fee on gross
city revenues as allowed under the law; and
Whereas the term 'franchise fee' in the case of any franchise in effect on the date of the
enactment of this title [Cable Act of 1992], does not include payments which are required
by the franchise to be incurred by the cable operator for public, educational, or
governmental access facilitiesi1
Whereas Time Warner Cable has been charging City of Ithaca customers $1.26 per month
for a "Access Franchise Fee" since the week of July 11, 1994, and
Whereas the so-called "Access Franchise Fee" is cannot legally be charged as a franchise
fee; and
Whereas Time Warner Cable's General Manager Raymond McCabe was publicly informed
that this charge is not a "Franchise Fee" by Assistant Deputy Director of the New York
State Commission of Cable Television Steven Shaye at the Ithaca public hearing on cable
television held in Common Council Chambers on July 13, 1994, and televised on Channel
53; and
Whereas Time Warner Cable has taken no voluntary action to correct this situation;
Therefore the Ithaca City Cable Commission calls on Time Warner Cable to refund this so-
called "franchise fee" in full to each City of Ithaca subscriber that has been charged this
"franchise fee" in excess of the amount of franchise fee allowed by federal law; and
Be it further resolved that Time Warner Cable will desist from listing "Access Franchise
Fee" on its bills to city subscribers.
'Pike & Fisher's Cable Act: Law and Legislative History, p484
IT '
11.1 17771-M11
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
Resolution on Access
Equipment Maintenance Charges Passed Unanimously by the Ithaca City Cable
Commission October 25, 1994
Whereas the Ithaca City Franchise calls for Time Warner Cable to maintain or replace
Access and local origination equipment in a manner consistent with Good Operating
Practice; and
Whereas Good Operating Practice has a specific definition in the context of governmental
and non-governmental contracts and is an accepted trade phrase, and
Whereas Good Operating Practice for all equipment includes, at minimum:
1) For each piece of equipment, in accordance with the recommendations of the
manufacturer if available, determining acceptable tolerances for replaceable
parts and setting up a regular maintenance and inspection schedule;
2) Adhering to the regular maintenance and inspection schedule, including
preventative maintenance procedures and regular replacement of replaceable
- _ parts that fall outside acceptable tolerances;
3) Setting up a system to check adherence to the regular maintenance schedule,
such as posting this schedule and requiring the inspector or maintenance
worker to initial and date it on completion of each scheduled maintenance
procedure or inspection; and
4) Review of the initialed maintenance/inspection schedule or equivalent
procedure by management on a regular basis to assure adherence to the
schedule.
5) Replacing equipment that can no longer be brought into acceptable tolerances
because of the unavailability of standard replacement parts or because
advances in equipment design dictate replacement.
Whereas the two items marked "refurbishment" that TWC has charged to the 1994 access
capital equipment budget (2% funds) represent equipment maintenance procedures
involving the replacement of replaceable parts that have been analyzed and found to be
beyond acceptable tolerances, and
Whereas standard replacement parts were available and used for these replacements; and
Whereas the replacement of worn parts with standard replacement parts on a predetermined
schedule or when they are analyzed and found to deviate from original manufacturer's
specifications beyond acceptable tolerances falls within the normal definition of Good
Operating Practice;
Therefore the Ithaca City Cable Commission calls on Time Warner Cable to abide by its
repair responsibilities under the Franchise agreement and to refund the amounts charged
for the two items of "refurbishment" to the 2% capital equipment fund; and
Furthermore,the Ithaca City Cable Commission calls on Time Warner Cable to refrain from
charging equipment "refurbishments" or this sort to the 2% funds in the future.
, pg
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CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
RESOLUTION ON NYSCC-11,2/14/95
WHEREAS, since 1973 the New York State government has sponsored the New York State Commission on Cable Television,which
oversees cable television operation across the state;and
WHEREAS,the New York State Commission on Cable Television has effectively provided assistance to local communities across New York
State by supplying technical,legal,and regulatory expertise and up-to-date materials with respect to the rapidly changing field of cable
television;and
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television assists municipalities in negotiating and preparing favorable cable
television franchise agreements with cable operators and in enforcing certain minimum technical and safety standards for cable television
operation;and
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television provides consumer protection information and services, mediates
unresolved customer-cable operator disputes and regulates subscriber rates according to complex Federal Communications Commission
formulae;and
WHEREAS,on the federal level the new Congress is proposing returning the regulatory powers of the FCC over the cable industry to the
state level and where,in New York State, the NYS Commission on Cable Television and its staff are the only body with accumulated
expertise to handle the cable industry through this period of rapid change;and
WHEREAS,the Ithaca City Cable Commission,the City of Ithaca,and its residents have used and continue to use on a regular basis to
rely on the abovementioned services offered by the New York State Commission on Cable Television;and
WHEREAS,most funding for the New York State Commission on Cable Television does not come from the general tax levy,but rather
from fees paid on revenues of the cable television operators;
NOW THEREFORE,be it
RESOLVED, that the Cable Commission of the City of Ithaca supports continuation of the New York State Commission on Cable
Television at its full staffing and funding level and calls upon Governor George Pataki,Senator James Seward,and Assemblyman Martin
Luster,and the other members of the Legislature to continue their support for the New York State Commission on Cable Television.
Motion by Commissioner Dick Cogger,seconded by Commissioner Richard Entlich,passed by Ithaca City Cable Commission 2/14/95
Ayes Commissioners Dick Cogger,Richard Entlich,Harvey Gitlin,Helen Grimm,Chair Jean Fmley,Nays none
Cable Commission Meeting Tuesday February 14, 1995
Call to order 7:40pm. Commissioners present: Dick Co ger, Richard
Entlich, Jean Finley, Harvey Gitlin, Helen Grimm. Kick, Grw.t -
Correcti ons to 1/ 10/95 minutes - call to order 7:40pm. Commi psi oners
present: Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, Jean Finley, Harvey Gitlin. The
formal motion regarding the archives will be written up by Theresa Alt -
the motion was approved 4:0. Lynn tietraiis-Robin Feltner-if u 5 t 1f
Steven Slieve. 1/ 10 minutes accepted.
Public Commentary
Fay Gougakis offended by Nick Papatonis' program Sat night, ch 57-upset
that teenagers encouraged to call and discuss fantasies-insult to see
obscene garbage on TV-promotes social ills and lack of responsibility
toward sexuality-wants Cable Access to be progressive/dignified.
Jim Blizzard requested item be added to agenda-on behalf of Tompkins
County wants piece of equipment-insignificant cost for useful item-
County providing playback for govt access and running bulletin board, now
would like Commission's help. Should be flexible about govt access use.
Robin Palmer rep. of Intermunicipal Cable Commission of Cayuga Heights-
agrees w/ Ms. Gougakis-many want to get rid of ch 13-archive issue not
dead, has across party support OlayoriD.A.)-this Commission becoming
more illegitimate-made reference to suggestion that the Access Building
be bombed-demand for 'adult time period' has grown.
Will Cohn against archive-potential lawsuits: he offended someone who
then tried to get copy of program for slander suit-if archive, would have
been expensive/troublesome to prove innocence-archive theft of his work,
would have no control over it-would have chilling effect on speech.
Meeting
*Government Access Report-Pauline Layton*GAAC meeting 1123*offi�I
elected*Is concerned about article 6 sec 4.3 of the new Pegas 3 manuel,
which forbids payment to access crew members. The passage should be
clarified-the distinction between sponsors that can't pay and producers
that can pay is unclear. Crew members must be paid.*ICCC passed a
resolution saying permanent placement of video equipment packages in
government areas would not be allowed if they are not allowed to
residents of Ithaca. This limits lending packages to outlying districts-
reduces govt access to them. Mailing is sent to municipal gouts allowing
them to ask for packages-but they don't know what paperwork to fill out.
Govt's can't afford to buy packages. GAAC would like resolution restated.
[Ms. Finley clarified the resolution-ICCC doesn't want to lock packages up
in outlaying areas where residents of Ithaca don't have access to them.
There needs to be an equitable way of distributing packages.]
*Time Warner Cable-Ray McCabe*correction-funds for access equipment
from TWC. City residents don't pay.*Capital requests reported to TWC by
5/31 *NYS Commission on Cable TV completed technical evaluation of our
cable system-report has not been received.*Responded to Oct. '94 ICCC
resolution`s*Complaints-most focus on public access issues. Much
community interest in universal paramount network programming. UPN
chose to distribute their programming through local broadcasters. In
Syracuse market chose WNYS ch43. WNYS does not broadcast with
sufficient signal to reach Ithaca. WNYS rep. stated plans to later increase
signal strength. TWC in contact w/ all parties to bring UPN programming
to this market ASAP.*ICCC public input campaign-service concerns
communicated to TWC directly were responded to w/in 24 hrs. TWC has
not yet received service complaints resulting from ICCC press releases
and ch 13 notices.*Meadowbrook Trailer Park a complex outside of City of
Ithaca. investigation by TWC technical staff identified cables in question
as telephone cables.
*Ms. Grimm stated she would have voted for the archive had she not been
ill. Felt concern over being sued was poor reason not to have archive. . (�
I
. t *Ms. Finley's report*Interinstitutional Committee meeting-recommended V11v
for an extension from FCC*resol - . • • - . - go - • :ssed by Gammon ,
rnci l-resolve :- - =�.rt State Cable Commis .o t*techr -a au uililf �'1,';;_/
`, results riot yet in*Tom Isabella and Carol T . reviewed complaints- /,/►
technical ones passed on to state 'technical people. Spoke more about ,I
. :‘,\,4\t
general complaints-things that may be franchise violations. Will talk to
them again-looking at resolutions.*Complaints-one woman felt program
'Nick at Night' was in poor taste. Commissioners discussed this-Mr. Gitlin
said importance of free speech should be communicated to public. Ms.
Grimm felt something should be done to limit # of complaints-difficult to
cJ ans,r,er. Can only say FCC rules being followed. Felt 'pitiful' that many
;,ranted to get rid of chl3 because of actions of one person. Recommended
an editorial be written to lessen bad sentiments toward Commission. Ms. .
Finley said more of what people like shoud be put on-larger variety. Mr.
Entlich felt Commission could clarify how little control they have over
content, make regulations clear, encourage quality programs.*Flower Hill,
a long island community, under revolt. Mayor John Walter re-negotiated
the franchise-investigated municipal ownership. Wants a task force to
look into options as enter negotiations.
*TWC and ICCC interaction during ICCC meetings brought up-Clarified that
TWC representative is invited to participate in meeting-open interaction.
*public comment period of meeting needs to be more controlled-too
lengthy. Mr. Cogger suggested Commissioners not respond to criticisms at
meeting. Mr. Entlich suggested ceremonial way of signifying an
individual's comment time is up.
*Mr. Blizzard's $300 equipment request-ICCC will hand issue over to
Public Access Equipment Committee-if they recommend it, ICCC will
approve it as an exception.
*Public Access report-resolution passed. Next meeting 2/20
*Resolution (supporting NYS Commission on Cable TV) revised and
approved 5:0.
*Mr. Gray stated that 800 # for NYS Commission is no longer in TWC bill.
*Election of officers. Rotating chair (with exception of Ms. Grimm) Mr.
Gitlin will chair next meeting. Ms. Finley chair, Mr. Entlich vice chair, Ms.
Grimm secretary (approved 5:0)
Next Meeting 3/ 14/95 at 7:30pm_
WHEREAS, since 1973 the New York State government has sponsored the New York State
Commission on Cable Television,which oversees cable television operation across the state;
and
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television has effectively provided
assistance to local communities across New York State by supplying technical, legal, and
regulatory expertise and up-to-date materials with respect to the rapidly changing field of
cable television; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television assists municipalities in
negotiating and preparing favorable cable television franchise agreements with cable
operators and in enforcing certain minimum technical and safety standards for cable
television operation; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television provides consumer
protection information and services, mediates unresolved customer-cable operator disputes
and regulates subscriber rates according to complex Federal Communications Commission
formulae; and
WHEREAS, on the Federal Level the New Congress is porposing returning the regulatory
powers of the FCC over the cable industry to the State Level and where, in New York
State, the NYS Commission on Cable Television and its staff are the only body with
accumulated expertise to handle the cable industry through this period of rapid change; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca, its staff, and residents have used and continue to use on a
regular basis the abovementioned services offered by the New York State Commission on
Cable Television; and
WHEREAS, most funding for the New York State Commission on Cable Television does
not come from the general tax levy, but rather from fees paid on revenues of the cable
television operators;
NOW THEREFORE, be it
RESOLVED, that the Cable Commission of the City of Ithaca supports continuation of the
New York State Commission on Cable Television at its full staffing and funding level and
calls upon Governor George Pataki, Senator James Seward, and Assemblyman Martin
Luster, and the other members of the legislature to continue their support for the New York
State Commission on Cable Television.
Date: February 22, 1 5
From: Jim Loomis
To: Educational ccess Committee
Subj . : Meeting Reminder
Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8th , 3: 30-4: 30
p.m. , at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Center, 615 Willow
Avenue. Please let me know (274-3913) if you will be unable to
attend.
Please find, attached, a draft letter for the Intermunicipal
Cable Commission. I will be interested in your remarks/direction
before making it official . Remember that we still need policies
for school use and feedback to Lauren on the I -NET document. We
hope to have more information on how much is spent for access and
a report on the Electronic Futures Committee, from Rick .
Hope to see you then.
JL
DRAFT
Jim Loomis , Chairman
Educational Access Committee
c/o Telecommunications Facilities
128 Park Hall , Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY 14850-725- /. -�6 /
Mr . Ben Curtis v feoe"
Chair , Cable Commission
c/o Village of Lansing
2405 North Triphammer Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
Ben:
We understand that the Intermunicipal Commission is still
organizing, to some extent. Pauline Layton, Dave Allen and
others keep me advised of your progress. As we have said,
in the past, the Educational Access Committee, representing
area educational institutions, has interests beyond the
boundaries of the City of Ithaca, which coincide with the
jurisdictions of your membership. For that reason we
encourage a formal relationship between our two
organizations, and would welcome a ratification of that
relationship from the Intermunicipal Commission.
Our priorities are, simply stated, to represent our
insitutions in assuring continued and effective access to
the area cable system for educational purposes, primarily
for television. As you know, the New York State Commission
on Cable Television mandates that cable systems provide for
noncommercial television channels, without charge to the
users, for members of the public,' educational institutions ,
and government agencies. We are interested in access for
our institutions and for the potential audience.
According to the Policies and Procedures manual of the
Educational Access Committee:
The state commission mandates that "The
educational . . . channel shall be operated and
administered by a committee or a commission
appointed by local government and shall include
appropriate representation of local school
districts within the service area of the cable
television system and may include for purposes of
•
coordination an employee or representative of the
cable television franchisee. " The Educational
Access Committee was formed by Resolution 7 . 91 of
the Cable Access Advisory Board, a body that
recommends access policy to the Ithaca City Cable
Commission. The Ithaca City Cable Commission and
the Cable Access Advisory Board represent the
access interests of the nineteen communities that
have franchise agreements for service by ACC.
The committee was charged with entering into a
written agreement with ACC to assume primary
responsibility for the administration of the
educational access channels. . . .
(Sec. 4 . 1 , 5/93)
The Cable Access Advisory Board was since disbanded, but the
Educational Access Committee has continued to operate in an
advisory relationship with the City Cable Commission and the
current cable franchisee. Representation had been sought
from each of the area schools, but was not forthcoming. The
area public schools have been represented by Tompkins Seneca
Tioga B.O.C. E.S. Cornell University, Ithaca College,
Tompkins Cortland Community College, Cornell Cooperative
Extension, and ACC/Time Warner are represented.
By state mandate, our relationship with the franchisee seems
to be clear . It is less so with the Intermunicipal and City
Commissions . The state mandate does not address continuing
issues of appointment to the committee, for example. There
are also procedural concerns related to administration of
budget and allocation of other resources, which remain
unclear. Currently, there is no direct line of authority
for the committee, other than the mandated relationship with
• the franchisee.
Dispite our sometimes nebulous nature, I feel the committee
has been useful toward its intended task, and has served the
intent of the state commission. Please share any or all of
this letter with your members and thank you for considering
our concerns .
Sincerely ,
!than ritu Ctle Commission Meeting Morn 14, 1999
Call to order 7:45 pm. Present: Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, Jean Finley,
Harvey Gitlin (Chair), Rick Gray.
Public Comment
Pauline Layton lives in the Town of Ithaca-is a Public Access volunteer.
Distributed 2 handouts to the Commissioners in order for them to become
more familiar with what's going on at Public Access.
Ben Fan lives in the City of Ithaca. The reason Public Access is provided is
to allow ordinary people who don't normally have access (due to limited
money., prestige„ etc) the opportunity to express their views. Therefore,
individuals like Bill McCormick shouldn't be restricted (even though Mr.
Fan doesn't personally enjoy his show). Thankful for the Scifi channel.
Public Access producers are generally in favor of an Archive. A 'safe
harbor time should be voluntary, otherwise it will be impossible to
enforce. The franchise fee from TW is a separate dollar amount on the bill.
This is deceptive-it gives the incorrect impression that this is in addition
to the basic fee.
Nick Papatonis TW has backstabbed him (complained and said insulting
things to the Board of Directors about him-wrecked his credibilitu). Listed
his credentials. Putting on a telethon for Loaves and Fishes. 1-',Alt-j. should
give to Loaves and Fishes-it isn't in tune with community needs. Running
for Mayor of City of Ithaca this year. Has filed official harassment
charges against Fay Gougakis and Robin Palmer. Defended his show against
their complaints.
TWC Comments -Tom Doheny- Handed out Pegasys 1994 Annual Report.
In response to Mr. Papatonis-the Cable Co. is making a contribution to the
telethon and hopes for its best. Technical audit by P.Ily`SCCT found TWC in
compliance. flYr.:-_CCT requested and was given information as to the initial
launch of Cable Plus. At this time, usage of ch57 is not sufficient to
require the launch of another Access channel. TWC: plans to limit cable
casting of Access programs to residents of the service area effective May
1 , 1995. In the process of re-naming the Access Franchise Fee to PEG
Access Fee. TWC is supplying details of capital spending for 1994. Have
removed costs associated with playback decK refurbishments. Planning to
increase TWC prices to reflect inflation and increases in external costs.
Notices to customers and Regulatory agencies will be mailed March 15th.
T\ 'II. was primary sponsor of the Cabin Fever Festival which was very
successful. Also snonored a poster contest. Sponsored the Cayuga chamber
Orchestra's Youth Concert at uiD Auditorium.
Corrections to 2/ 14/95 minutes - Mr. Gray present. Will hiwe. 2/ 14
minutes accepted.
Choirs Report Ms. Finley- Technical audit turned out well. Submitted a
potential resolution (3/ 14/95-3)-has to do with out-of-franchise
supplied programming on access. Ms. Finley disputes the opinion that there
is no need for another channel. Discussed correspondance with Jun Wu:
broke some equipment; disputes over depreciation of the equipment; there
is no access grievance procedure right now; Public Access to set up
permanent rules. Mr. Doheny was asked and agreed to handle Martha Creed's
complaint.
Other Discussions Mr. Entlich discuued a bill in the Senate (the
Communications Decencu Act of 1995) which is targeted at the use of
telecommunications networks and the control of content. Individuals of
society and various carriers of the content in questions would be
responsible for the content and subject to legal action if they violate the
regulations under section E of the bill. This sections primary purpose is
to regulate users of the Internet. However, it allows cable operators to
reject public or leased programming that in their opinion is obscene.
Operators shouldn't be allowed to censure Public Access. These operators
are threatened with criminal liability-will be second guessed. Mr. Cogger
voiced his concern. Ms. Finley agreed to write a letter on behalf of the
ICCC to Congresspersons and other appropriate individuals sauinq thei,;
shouldn't vote for this bill. All were in favor of this.
GACC Report Educational institutions put in requests for packages. The
Capital Budget Committee didn't know how to deal with the requests.
Resolution 3/ 14/95- 1 proposed to deal with the long-term lending of
video packages. Ms. Finley moved to pass the resolution as written. Mr.
Gitlin seconded the motion. Mr. Gitlin felt the resolution's goal and
purpose was fine, but the resolution was vague. Mr. Cogger felt parts of
the resolution were vague (eg. "suitable paperwork could mean anything)-
requests need to be prioritized, not as simple as stated in resolution. Mr.
Doheny noted that the final decision is up to TWC-this is the only part of
the res. TW would have a problem with. Resolution was revised. in favor:
Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, jean Finley, and Harvey Gitlin. None opposed.
Public Access Report by Mr. Gitlin. Motion was passed to table
dicusion of policy and procedures until a later date. Copies of the
minutes and proposals that haven't been voted on yet will be sent to the
Commissioners. Ms. Finley recieved a few grievances (eg. Mr. Wu was
charged by TWC with damaging a piece of equipment to the point of its
depreciated value). Such grievances need to be looked at and adjudicated
•
until Public Access can handle it. Resolution 3/ 14/95-4 proposed. Agreed
that Mr. Wu's case shouldn't be in the resolution specifically . Mr. Doheny
noted that TWC could try to follow the suggestions of a panel-but there
might be exceptions to this. Need for a panel was discussed. Mr. Entlich
noted the importance of having a willing group of people on the panel, and
the importance of the ICCC recieving background information on top of the
recommendation. The resolution was revised. Mr. Cogger moved to accept
the resolution. Seconded by Mr. Entlich. In favor: Dick Cogger, Richard
Entlich, Jean Finley, and Harvey Gitlin. None against. Resolution 3/ 14/95-
3 proposed. Ms. Finley moved to accept it. Mr. Entlich seconded. In favor:
Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, Jean Finley. and Harvey Gitlin. None against.
Other Business The NVSCC 800 number is on the bill now.
Commissioners adjourned to executive session.
Next Meeting 4/6/95 at 7_30pm_
Minutes by Sally Kesh
•
ITN •
iC
I
;
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
ICCC RESOLUTION 3/14/95-1
LONG-TERM EQUIPMENT PACKAGES POLICIES
Resolved: the Ithaca City Cable Commission endorses (as revised) the following statement
presented by Governmental Access Cable Committee Chair Pauline Layton after consulting
with the Educational Access Committee, the GACC, and all other members of the
Committee of Chairs.
PURPOSES AND GOALS FOR PEGASYS EQUIPMENT PACKAGES
PURPOSE: For the long-term lending of video equipment packages from PEGASYS:
To increase the use of PEG access channels by encouraging the creation of local
programming, in addition to what is being done through the use of the existing
studio, facility, public access volunteer training and equipment loan system now
operating from the PEGASYS Center at 612 W. Green St. Hence, especially to
encourage the creation of local programming by local governmental and educational
bodies and other local not-for-profit institutions.
Towards this end, our goals are:
To allow the temporary creation of off-site video production capability, allowing
groups of people who most likely would otherwise not come in contact with video
equipment to be taught to use it.
To enable these off-site trainees to create actual programming which will be run on
the air.
To assist institutions in experimenting with recorded or live cablecasting of their
institutional affairs.
To improve the quality of on-going video institutional projects through lending
•
institutions equipment for a stated period.
To encourage throughout the county the eventual establishment by institutions of
permanent video capability for themselves.
Implementation:
The Committee of Chairs is to create suitable policies, procedures, schedules, and
paperwork that will at an early stage spell out to applicants the limitations of the
loan and will bind them to follow PEGASYS policies and procedures. Final decision
over which applications for equipment packages should be honored and when loans
of equipment should be terminated is to reside in the Committee of Chairs, which
is subordinate to the Ithaca City Cable Commission.
Passed 3/14/95: Ayes: Commissioner Dick Cogger,Richard Entlich,Harvey Gitlin,Chair
Jean Finley; Nays: 0
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
ICCC RESOLUTION 3/14/95-2
RESPONSE TO PROSPOED FEDERAL LEGISLATION:
DECENCY IN TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT (S314)
BE IT RESOLVED that Chair Jean Finley is authorized to write a letter on behalf of ICCC
to area Congrespersons Maurice Hinchey and Amo Houghton, Senators Daniel Patrick
Moynihan and Alphonse D'Amato, and any appropriate committee chairs in the US House
of Representatives or the US Senate asking them to oppose provisions of the proposed
"Decency in Telecommunications Act of 1995;" which would revise sections 611 and 612 of
the Cable Act of 1984 to hold cable operators responsible for illegal or indecent program
comtemt on P.E.G. and leased access channels and would further allow cable operators to
censor or otherwise bar programmingit considers "adult" or illegal. Chair Finley will check
the wordiong of the letter with the other commissioners before mailing it.
•
(?F
s; S Fr.* f`
III
' 0
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable
Commission Telephone: 607-272-3081
Fax: 607-272-7348
ICCC RESOLUTION 3/14/95-3
P.E.G. ACCESS PROGRAM PROVIDER ELIGIBILITY
WHEREAS, the New York State Commission on Cable Television, in its meeting March 8,
1995, decided to permit local choice instead of requiring local franchises to carry P.E.G.
access programming that is provided by persons living in NAYS but outside of the local
franchise ares; and
WHEREAS, the Ithaca PEGASYS system currently carries programming presented by
residents from anywhere within New York State; and
WHEREAS, the temporary Public Access Committee has set as its first priority the
construction of rules for the formation of the permanent PAC and will not be able to
consider the issue of program provider eligibility and its ramifications in appropriate detail
until such time as the PAC rules are completed;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Ithaca City Cable Commission calls on Time
Warner Cable to refrain from implementing any'immediate changes in the PEGASYS rules
with respect to eligible program providers until such time as directed by Ithaca City Cable
Commission with the considered advice of the Public Access Committee.
Passed 3/14/95: Ayes: Commissioners Dick Cogger,Richard Entlich,Harvey Gitlin,Chair
Jean Finley; Nays: 0
e
•
•
4.1 lez. .1∎'1,
-'17 .1T I._.
iE0_
CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,New York 14850
The Cable Telephone: 607-272-3081
Commission Fax: 607-272-7348
ICCC RESOLUTION 3/14/95-4
ACCESS USER COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
WHEREAS, at present no mechanism is in place for the resolution of public access
volunteer and producer grievances with respect to rulings by Time Warner Cable; and
WHEREAS, a complete review of basic policies, including the question of whether access
capital equipment pool is replenished in any way when PEGASYS equipment is damaged
or destroyed, needs to be undertaken; and
•
WHEREAS, the temporary Public Access Committee has set as its first priority the
construction of rules for the formation of they permanent PAC and will not be able to
consider the formulation of a grievance procedure in a timely manner until such time as the
PAC rules are completed; and
WHEREAS,the prior Cable Access Advisory Board had an operational grievance procedure
which worked before the dissolution of fhat body,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: that ICCC hereby authorizes PAC Chair Harvey Gitlin,
ICCC Chair Jean Finley, and Common Council Liaison Rick Gray to explore and if
appropriate to appoint a temporary judicial panel to hear grievances; and furthermore
BE IT RESOLVED that ICCC requests that TWC hold in abeyance the implementation of
any pending disputed penalties until ICCC receives the report of the temporary panel and
makes a recommendation; and finally
BE IT RESOLVED that ICC calls on TWC to supply ICCc with appropriate information
detailing the current policy with respect to repair or replacement of
damaged/destroyed/lost/stolen equipment.
Passed: Ayes: Commissioners Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, Harvey Gitlin, Chair Jean
Finley; Nays: 0
. F THE d
>
�,, 1y l
(
)
NEW YORK STATE
ir ' ;
y ;
COMMISSION ON CABLE TELEVISION
°/
5 EMPIRE STATE PLAZA ALBANY, NEW YORK 12223-1552 (518)474-4992 FAX (518) 486-5727
May 11, 1995
Ray McCabe, Manager
American Community Cable
519 W. State St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Dear Mr. McCabe:
As you know, the City of Ithaca by resolution adopted October 25, 1994 has
expressed reservations concerning your company's introduction of a CablePlus service tier
as well as the treatment of public access commitments on subscriber's bills.
The Commission's Consumer Services Unit has previously inquired about the
facts and circumstances concerning the introduction of a CablePlus tier. From your
response, dated March 2, 1995, it is my understanding that the material facts are as follows:
1. that the CablePlus tier is comprised of four programming services -- CNN,
ESPN, The Learning Channel and Comedy Central -- all of which were
previously available as part of basic cable service but which were removed to
a separate "scrambled" CablePlus tier and marketed as a separate option to
subscribers;
2. that the four CablePlus channels were originally intended to be removed
from basic service on July 15, 1994 at which time basic service was reduced
from $1537 to $12.29;
3. that on or about June 17, ACC mailed a newsletter to subscribers which
described the changes in basic service and the CablePlus tier as well as the
availability of three new channels -- Encore, ESPN 2 and the Cartoon
Network -- on an a la carte basis;
4. that the newsletter indicated that a subscriber who wished to continue
receiving the four channels comprising the CablePlus tier at $1.34/month plus
an addressable converter "must subscribe before July 20;"
-2-
5. that the CablePlus tier was not scrambled until September 21, 1994, some
two months after the scheduled date, but that during the period July 20
through September 21, subscribers who affirmatively requested the CablePlus
tier were billed therefor immediately while all other subscribers received the
service free of charge as part of basic service.
Based on the foregoing, it is the determination of the Consumer Services Unit that
subscribers who were charged for the CablePlus tier for any part of the two-month period
from July 20 to September 21, 1994 are entitled to a refund or credit for such charge on a
pro rata basis. This ruling is based on the fact that a significant number of subscribers were
also able to receive the very same services throughout that period without the separate
additional monthly charge of$1.74. In other words, it fully appears that ACC continued to
promote the CablePlus tier by offering it free of charge for two months after the announced
deadline for initial subscription. The fact that all subscribers paid less for basic service and
the four CablePlus channels after July 15 does not mitigate the unequal treatment of
subscribers prior to September 21.
This action is taken on authority delegated to me by Section 590.70(c)(1) and
has previously been reported to the Commission.
Within seven days of the receipt of this letter, please provide a written
statement indicating the number of subscribers affected and the total amount of the refund
and the billing cycle in which the subscriber's accounts will be adjusted.
With respect to the issue of the manner in which public, educational and
governmental access related payments by ACC were reflected on the subscriber's bills,
please be advised that it is the position of the Commission that no amount other than that
which specifically qualifies as a franchise fee payment subject to the 5% federal ceiling may
be separately itemized as a line item on subscriber's bills. I am advised by the Commission's
Counsel that this ruling is consistent with the determination of the FCC Cable Services
Bureau in a Memorandum Opinion and Order, in the Matter of Warner Cable
Communications of Cincinnati,Inc.v. City of Cincinnati, Ohio,DA 95-550,Released: March
21, 1995 wherein it was held that a "community service fee" in the nature of a payment
made in support of PEG access facilities which was not part of a 5% franchise fee may not
be treated as if a franchise fee on a separate line item on the subscriber bill. Although I
understand that the rates charged by your company in the City of Ithaca are not subject to
the FCC's benchmark method of rate regulation as such the distinction made between those
amount which are franchise fees and other amounts would apply with equal force to the
subscriber bills in the City of Ithaca.
-3-
Please advise me within ten days of the date hereof as to the earliest billing
cycle within 60 days of the date hereof within which you can make the necessary corrections
to your subscriber bills.
Ve truly yours,
/42t1 V Pa
Anne V. Dalton, Director
Consumer Services Unit
cc: Hon. Benjamin Nichols, Mayor
City of Ithaca
Jean Finley, Chairperson ✓
Ithaca Cable Commission
John L. Grow, Counsel
Steven A. Shaye, Director
Municipal Assistance
APPROVED:
Ithaca City Cable Commission
November 2, 1995 Meeting
Minutes
Attachments: Pegasys Report to the ICCC 10/95
Location: City Hall , 2nd Floor conference room
Present: Richard Entlich (Acting Chair) , Dick Cogger, Jill Brantley,
Tom Doheny (TWC Rep. ) , Rick Gray (Common Council Liaison)
7:43 p.m. Call to Order
Public Comment: none
TWC Report:
Pegasys report to ICCC of 10/95 submitted.
Doheny presented letters regarding the converter box changes and
rate increases had been sent to subscribers.
Ray McCabe, the Manager of the local TWC office, is leaving the
position to take another position with TWC. He will be leaving
Thanksgiving week. No replacement has been named as of yet.
Steve Miron of the Syracuse office is Acting Manager until a
replacement is made. Doheny will provide Entlich with contact
information for Steve Miron via e-mail .
Doheny requested that the final text of approved ICCC resolutions
be sent to TWC.
Doheny requested that TWC be allowed to leave Cable Commission
meetings early-- after the TWC Report.
Agenda Changes:
An Executive Session was added to the end of the Agenda.
1
Minutes from the Previous Meeting:
Change "Jerrod" to "Jerrold"
Change "Deemo" to "Demo"
Add "p.m. " after the Call To Order time.
Minutes were approved as amended.
Chair's Report:
No Chair's Report was given due to Finley's unexpected absence.
Announcements: None.
Government Access Report: Not presented.
Educational Access Report: Not presented.
Public Access Report:
Working Group met on 10/19/95. Working Group will meet next on
11/16/95, at 8:00 p.m. , City Hall 3rd floor conference room.
Handout regarding Public Access programming was not finalized due to
ICCC absences and was deferred to the next Working Group meeting.
8:02 p.m. Rick Gray arrives.
It was discussed whether the Handout regarding Public Access
programming would be distributed to new subscribers. It was
pointed out that TWC was preparing such a packet with a. section
regarding concerns about programming. Doheny requested that the
ICCC provide input for this section.
Gray reported that the Interinstitutional Committee (ICIC) will
meet next on 11/16/95, 4:00 p.m. , before the Working Group will meet.
Gray reported that the ICIC will not need the finalized version of
2
the Handout regarding Public Access programming and that the
nearly-completed version which has been developed was sufficient.
Old Business:
Public Right-of-Way was not discussed due to Paige Anderson's absence.
Regarding the Public Access "Fee" which TWC adds on to customers '
billing statements, the practice of which the ICCC has objected to,
it was reported that Finley is continuing to follow-up with the NYSCC
to obtain a response.
Regarding the Interim Report to the ICIC, because of Jean Finley's
anticipated absence, Entlich will give the presentation to the ICIC
on 11/16/95, 4:00 p.m.
New Business:
Resolution 1: Pegasys Editorial Policy
The ICCC voted to amend Pegasys Editorial Policy so that viewers with
concerns about Public Access programming could provide editorial
comment in an easier and more convenient manner.
[text of Resolution attached to end]
Brantley-Cogger, Passed unanimously.
Entlich will distribute the final text of the Resolution 1 to Doheny.
Resolution 2: Pegasys Comment File Review
The ICCC voted to institute a system for review of the Pegasys
Comment File. This system also provides for the distribution of the
review to ICCC members before each monthly meeting.
[text of Resolution attached to end]
Brantley-Entlich, Passed unanimously.
Next Meeting of ICCC will be on December 7, 1995, 7:30 p.m. , City Hall ,
2nd floor conference room.
8:39 p.m. Adjourned to Executive Session for franchise renegotiation
discussion.
End of Minutes
3
Resolution 9 ICCC meeting, 11.'2/95
WHEREAS.Public Access is designed to provide broad access to the production facilities of the PEGASYS
studio and
WHEREAS. members of the public in the Time Warner Cable Tompkins County area who may have an
opinion to express via public access have several ways to do so, including producing their own program,
appearing on someone else's show.or running an editorial and
WHEREAS.running an editorial is one of the techniques recommended for subscribers to respond to or
comment on the content of other public access programs they may have viewed and
WHEREAS. current guidelines for producing editorials for the purpose stated above limit the individual's
ability to do so in a timely or substantive manner
NOW. THEREFORE be it
RESOLVED. that the Ithaca City Cable Commission requests that Time Warner Cable make the following
changes in editorial production guidelines:
1) Increase the maximum time of editorials from 2 minutes to 3 minutes.
2)Decrease the advance notice required to produce a 3 minute editorial from 14 days to 7
days.
.3) Increase the maximum permitted length of text for editorials submitted with less than 7
days notice from 60 words to 120 words
4)Grant the editorial the same number of replays as are granted any producer in good
standing
5)Make reasonable effort to schedule the showing of the editorial according to the
preferences of the editorial producer.
•
Resolution #2: ICCC meeting. 11/2/95
WHEREAS. the PEGASYS studio maintains a file of complaints from subscribers about public access
programming and
WHEREAS. the contents of the complaint file reflects a portion of the community response to public access
programming
NOW.THEREFORE be it
RESOLVED, that a review of the PEGASYS complaint file be incorporated as part of the Chair's Report at the
monthly meetings of the Ithaca City Cable Commission •
and that it be the responsibility of the Public Access Subcommittee or similar advisory body to actually
review the complaint file and convey a summary of its findings to the Chair at least one week prior to each
monthly meeting of the Ithaca City Cable Commission.
YOU have the POWER. . .
SEE SOMETHING YOU
DIDN' T LIKE ON
PUBLIC ACCESS ?
YOU have the RIGHT to: Page
KNOW WHAT'S ALLOWED 2
Find out what types of programming aren't allowed on Public Access.
BLOCK IT 3
out of your TV and out of your home. Control what your kids can watch on TV.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD 4
to the Access Facility, to the producer, to the Cable Commission
REPORT IT 5
to the police. Illegal and criminal acts are not permitted on Public Access!
TALK BACK 5
to your TV, fight them on their own turf. Ways you can get on Public Access in
order to criticize Public Access.
GET RID OF BAD TV 6
altogether by increasing the amount of good TV. Ways to see more good
programming on Public Access.
12/95 Presented by the Ithaca City Cable Commission
PUBLIC ACCESS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Presented by the Ithaca City Cable Commission
HOW PUBLIC ACCESS WORKS
Public Access Cable (Public Access TV) is a not-for-profit community resource which allows
local organizations and individuals to create their own not-for-profit, or to submit other not-for-profit TV
programs, and to broadcast them on cable TV.
Many of the organizations that use Public Access TV are not-for-profit groups which would not
ordinarily have the money or resources required to get on TV. Public Access empowers these groups to
be able to let their message reach the entire community. These resources are provided to the community
without any charge to the organization or individual. Our goal is to get as many groups and individuals in
the community to use the resources of Public Access TV, thereby increasing the number of voices heard
and amount of information available to the community. Because of this, our policies on Public Access TV
are usually focused on providing as much access to the community as possible.
The Ithaca Common Council created the Ithaca City Cable Commission (ICCC)to deal with cable
related issues such as rate regulations, contract negotiations with the cable company, and resolving
complaints about cable service. Overseeing Public Access TV is just one of the things we do.
KNOW WHAT'S ALLOWED
(I saw something I didn't like)
1Q: I saw something I didn't like on Public Access TV. Who is in charge of preventing these things
from being shown?
A: Our goal is to provide access for everybody, especially those organizations and individuals who
would normally be shut out from television access(because of economic or class disadvantages,
or because of ideological differences). Because of this, our policy is to provide access as opposed
to restricting access.
2Q: You mean that anybody can show anything on Public Access TV?!?
A: Absolutely not. There are two types of programming which the ICCC does not allow on Public
Access TV. The first is commercial programming such as those which promote a commercial
product, service or company; offer lotteries or other games of chance; or which solicit funds for
candidates for public office. The other type of programming not allowed is programming which is
obscene. These two kinds of programming are also prohibited from Public Access TV by federal
law.
2
3Q: I'm certainly glad that obscene programming is not allowed on Public Access TV. That show I
saw was definitely obscene. Now will you ban it from being shown?
A: Not so fast. "Obscene" is a legal term with a specific legal definition'. In order for something to
be considered obscene, a court of law must declare it to be obscene. Our policy reflects this by
requiring a court to declare a program to be obscene before we can prohibit it from being shown.
4Q: Well it hasn't gone to court yet, but I think that it really was obscene.
A: According to the law, certain things are not considered to be obscene. Profanity is not considered
to be obscene. Defamatory remarks are not considered to be obscene. Religious blasphemy is not
considered to be obscene. Even violence and nudity(such as the type which is shown on other
cable channels or in movie theaters) are not considered to be obscene. Remember, a court of law
must rule if something is obscene.
5Q: Okay, maybe the program I saw wasn't technically"obscene". However, I found it extremely
offensive. Why don't you ban offensive programming?
A: Besides the fact that federal law prohibits us from banning this programming, again the purpose of
Public Access TV is to give a voice to those organizations and individuals in the community who
would ordinarily be silenced. Much of what people consider to be offensive deals with political or
religious viewpoints. Because of this, our policies reflect the goal of providing access rather than
restricting it. This is why we have our policy of open access.
BLOCK IT
(Public Access and children)
6Q: But you are allowing children to be exposed to bad words and bad ideas!
A: We realize that some of the programming on Public Access TV might not be suitable for children.
In response to these concerns, we passed a policy which encourages producers of these types of
programs to schedule them after 10:00 p.m., when most children are asleep. We also passed a
resolution to have the Cable Company use automatic equipment to be able to broadcast these
programs even later at night (after 11:30 p.m. when the broadcasting facilities would normally be
closed) if they could not be scheduled during late-night hours otherwise. Most producers, even
the most controversial ones, have readily agreed to abide by these late-night guidelines.
7Q: Okay, so you've provided for adult-oriented programming to be shown during late-night hours.
What else have you done?
A: The ICCC passed a policy to encourage producers to broadcast a warning before more
adult-oriented programming is shown. We created a standard disclaimer worded: "The following
program may contain material which is unsuitable for viewing by children. Parental discretion is
advised."This disclaimer is now available to all producers in a easy to use format.
8Q: I'm still not satisfied with what you've done. Is there anything I can do?
A: If you have a new Jerrold brand converter box(It's the black box, not the old, tan-colored
Scientific Atlanta brand), you can program the box by yourself to block any television channels,
including Access channels, from being viewed. Just follow the instructions in the converter box
instruction manual, or call the Cable Company if you need help.
3
9Q: I can block any channels to prevent my children from watching them?
A: Yes, with the Jerrold converter box, you have the power to control your own television.
10Q: But I have a different converter box or no converter box at all! Also, I'm afraid that my kids
might try to bypass the converter box altogether.
A: You can have the Cable Company block any channels from entering your home in the first place.
If you do this, then you can be sure that nobody in your house will be exposed to those channels.
11Q: I can make the Cable Company block any channels to prevent my children from watching them?
How much does this cost?
A: Nothing. This service is absolutely free.
12Q: I can make them block any channels, including Access channels, for free?
A: Yes. All you have to do is call.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
(I want to complain)
13Q: I saw something offensive on Public Access TV. It's not obscene, so I realize that you can't ban
it,but I still want to talk to someone about it or register a complaint. What can I do?
A: You can call the Cable Company's access facility. The staff there will: 1. Register your comments
in writing for the permanent record which is reviewed by the ICCC on a regular basis; 2. Forward
your comments to the producer, if you wish; 3. Provide you with the producer's name and contact
information so that you can communicate with the producer yourself, and 4. Discuss the program
with you to determine if it was in fact illegal.
14Q: Who else can I talk to?
A: You can talk to the producer of the program. Many producers are concerned about how their
programs are viewed and welcome suggestions about ways that they can make their program
better.
15Q: Who else can I talk to?
A: You can also call us, the Cable Commission. We depend on your feedback to develop policies
regarding many aspects of cable television. You can also call us if you would like clarification on
Public Access TV policies and regulations.
4
REPORT IT
(I think what I saw was illegal)
16Q: Okay, I realize the difference between obscene and offensive programming. What I saw was
illegal! What should I do?
A: If you truly believe that a law was violated, the proper thing to do is to contact the law
enforcement authorities,that is, the police. They are the government agency in charge of
investigating if a crime was committed. Copies of the complaint should also be sent to the cable
operator and the ICCC (see addresses at end).
17Q: If a crime was committed, I'll need proof. Do you keep an taped record of programs shown?
A: No, a taped record of cable programs is not maintained. However, you may make your own
recordings if you want a more precise record of what was said or done on a program. Also, many
cable access programs(but not all)are shown more than once. The Access Center can provide
you with information about re-run times if you would like to tape a program. If you don't have a
VCR, you can get a friend to tape it for you. Finally, you can call the Access Center to see if it
would be possible for you to get a copy of the program from them.
18Q: But what if I can't get a copy of the program?I won't be able to do a thing!
A: A recording of the program in question is not required to file a complaint, or for legal action to
be taken. Most prosecution of illegal behavior in public takes place without a recording of the
event. Instead they are prosecuted on the basis of what witnesses see and report. If you saw
something which you think is illegal, chances are other people saw it as well, and would remember
what they saw. People who may have seen the program include viewers at home, the crew who
worked on the program, and Access staff. Any of these people would be able to testify if they
witnessed illegal behavior. If you truly believe that a crime has been committed,you do not need
a videotape recording,you just need to be willing to step forward.
TALK BACK
19Q: Okay, I know that the program I saw was not obscene. Nothing on it was illegal either. However,
I still found it offensive. Do I have to just sit back and let this producer's message into my home
without any way of responding?
A: You can talk back to your television—no, we're serious. You can make a free, 3-minute video to
comment on or criticize an access program, or to just present your point of view. Just call the
Access Studio and give them 7 days to schedule a time for you to come in. They will take care of
all the equipment and taping. All you have to do is talk. And, this service is absolutely free.
20Q: But I can't wait 7 days. I want to respond now!
A: If you can't wait the 7 days to tape your own video, you can submit a written statement of up to
120 words in length. Your message will be typed in and broadcast on Public Access TV.
21Q: But a 3-minute video is not long enough for me to deliver my message.
A: If you have a lot to say, why don't you become a producer and make your own television
programs? It's easy to do, and it's free! Call the Access Studio for more information.
5
GET RID OF BAD TV
(I saw something I liked on public access)
22Q: I know that most programming on Public Access is pretty good, but there are a few programs that
I don't like to see. If I knew when these programs are shown, it would help me avoid them.
A: The Public Access television listings are available from many different sources. Presently, no
comprehensive local listings appear in print form. However, the Public Access bulletin boards
(which air on channels 13 and 57 whenever no programming is scheduled during normal studio
hours, and at all times when the studio is closed) provide complete and up-to-date listings of all
upcoming Public Access programming. Additionally, the Ithaca Journal's weekly TV listings and
their daily television highlights (on the page with the comics) contain a summary of the Public
Access schedule. Finally, you can call the Access Center to find out when programs are being
shown. We are looking at other ways in which we can better present the Public Access schedule
to the community including publication of a complete schedule in the Ithaca Times and in an
electronic format on the World Wide Web.
23Q: What can I do to see more good programming on Public Access?
A: You or your organization can create or submit programs for Public Access. It's a good way to get
your message out to the community. Also, encourage other local groups you work with to submit
programming.
NOTES
'The legal definition of the word "obscene" is, as defined by New York State Penal Law §235.00(1):
"Any material or performance is `obscene' if(a)the average person, applying
contemporary community standards, would find that considered as a whole, its
predominant appeal is to the prurient interest in sex, and (b) it depicts or describes in a
patently offensive manner, actual or simulated: sexual intercourse, sodomy, sexual
bestiality, masturbation, sadism, masochism, excretion or lewd exhibition of the genitals,
and (c) considered as a whole, it lacks serious literary, artistic, political, and scientific
value. Predominant appeal shall be judged with reference to ordinary adults unless it
appears from the character of the program or the circumstances of its dissemination, to be
designed for children or other specifically susceptible audience."
All three parts of this definition must be met in order for something to be considered obscene.
6
PUBLIC ACCESS
CONTACT SHEET
Presented by the Ithaca City Cable Commission(ICCC)
Public,Educational, Government Access System (PEGASYS, Access Center)
519 W. State St. (mailing address), 612 W. Green St. (studio address), Ithaca,NY 14850
272-7272 (voice), 277-5404 (fax)
Access Center open 3:00-11:30 pm, every day. Call for information about how to make your own Public
Access television programs, to get contact information about specific Access programs, to comment on a
program, or to make a 3-minute video or a written statement commenting on a program.
Time Warner Cable (TWC,the Cable Company)
272-3456
Customer Service (telephone hours: 8:30-6:00 M-F; walk-in hours: 9:00-6:00 M-F, 10:00-2:00 Sat.)For
questions about converter box operation; or to request that channels be blocked.
Ithaca City Cable Commission(ICCC)
City Hall, 108 E. Green St., Ithaca, NY 14850
Meets monthly. Meetings always begin with a public comment period during which time members of the
public may air grievances related to any issue related to local cable. To find out when and where the next
ICCC meeting will be held, please call the City Clerk's office at 274-6570. Mail may be sent to the
Commission addressed to City Hall. Or you may telephone the Chair or any Commission member:
Jean Finley(Chair),Jill Brantley, Dick Cogger, Richard Entlich, Harvey Gitlin, Rick Gray
(Common Council liaison).
New York State Cable Commission(NYSCC)
Empire State Plaza, Tower Bldg., Albany,NY 12223
800-342-3330
For information about cable issues affecting New York State.
Ithaca Police Department (IPD)
272-9973 (administrative phone number, for non-emergency calls)
If you saw something which you believe was illegal, call the Police to file a report.
Dear
We recently received your comments about a program on Public Access Television
(Channel 13 or Channel 57). Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. The Ithaca
City Cable Commission uses your feedback to develop policies regarding many aspects of cable
television. This is what we will do:
1. We will discuss your comments at our next monthly meeting;
2. We will submit them with the minutes of our meeting so that your comments will
become a part of the permanent record;
3. We will submit a copy of your comments to be kept in our master log of Public
Access comments. This will also be kept as a permanent record;
4. If the Pegasys Cable Access Center(they run the day-to-day operations of Public
Access) does not already have a copy of your comments, we will submit a copy to
them for their records. The staff there are also interested in your feedback; and
5. If you wish, we will pass on your comments to the producer of the program in
question, through the Pegasys Access Center. Many producers are concerned
about how their programs are viewed and welcome suggestions about ways that
they can make their program better.
Enclosed please find a copy of an informational memo we have written, addressing many
of the concerns that have been directed to us regarding Public Access programming. If you have
any further questions about Public Access regulations and policies, please feel free to contact us
again.
Sincerely,
Jean Finley
ICCC Chair
JF/blf
Encl: Public Access Questions and Answers memo
Cable Commission Mailing Addresses
7/95
MUNICIPAL REPRESENTATIVES:
Caroline, Town *Margaret Scriber, PO Box 54, Brooktondale 14817 (W,H) 539-7505
Cayuga Heights, Village *Robin Palmer; 206 Oak Hill Rd. (H) 257 -3748
Danby, Town *Mary Oltz; 1873 Danby Rd. (W,H) 273-2950
Dryden, Town *David Stewart; 1176 Dryden Rd. (W) 255-4908 (H) 273-3222
Dryden, Village *Phil Winn; Box 622, Dryden 13053 (W) 844 -8271
*Robert Day; PO Box 820, Dryden 13053 (W) 844-8122 (H) 844-8851
Jim Schug, 65 E. Main St. , Dryden 13053 (W) 257 -2811
Enfield, Town Jean Owens; 168 Enfield Main Rd. , Newfield 14867 (W) 273-8256 (H) 273 - 5682
Freeville, Village Michael Whalen; V/F PO Box 288, Freeville 13068 (W) 844-8301 (H) 844-8304
Groton, Town *Ronald Weins; 329 Locke Rd. , Groton 13073 (H) 898-5035
Groton, Village *Frank Heine/Thomas Whitmore; V/G 108 E. Cortland St. , Groton 13073
Heine (H) 898- 5054 Whitmore (H) 898-3546
Ithaca, City *Rick Gray; C/I, 108 E. Green St. (W) 274-6570 (H) 272-2628
Ithaca, Town *Catherine Valentino; 110 Eastern Heights Dr. (H) 272- 5214
Lansing, Town *Andy LaVigne; 1278 Ridge Rd. , Lansing 14882 (H) 533 -7049
Lansing, Village *Ted Wixom; V/L Office; 2405 N. Triphammer Rd. (W) 277 -0660 (H) 257 -6578
Newfield, Town *David Allen; T/N 166 Main St. Newfield 14867 (W) 274-3212 (H) 564-7847
Trumansburg, Village Bob Waller; C. O. Dickinson H.S. , 100 Whig St. , T'Burg 14886 (H) 387 - 5207
Ulysses, Town *Ben Curtis; V/L Office; 2405 N. Triphammer Rd. (W) 257 -8363 (H) 387 - 5325
Tompkins, County *Mike Lane; (Bd. of Reps. ) , PO Box 835, Dryden 13053 (W) 844-8440
* resolutions of support and appointees
AT-LARGE REPRESENTATIVES:
(provisional) Robert Watros; PO Box 72, Dryden 13053 (H) 844-8100
John Marcham; 414 E. Buffalo St. (H) 273 -5754
ASSOCIATE REPRESENTATIVES:
Stu Stein; 11 Cornell Walk (H) 273 -3500
Don Hartill; V/L Office; 2405 N. Triphammer Rd. (H) 272-7671
Beverly Livesay; 147 Snyder Hill Rd. (H) 272-2776
Public Access Cable Comm. Harvey Gitlin; 2775 Slaterville Rd. , PO Box 39 , Sl.Sp. 14881 (H) 539 -6203
Gov' t. Access Cable Comm. Pauline Layton; 1029 Danby Rd. (H) 273 -4808
Edu. Access Cable Comm. Jim Loomis, Telecom. Fac. P 128 Roy H. Park Hall, Ithaca Co. (W) 274 - 3913
Ithaca City Cable Comm. Jean Finley; (C/I 106 E. Green St. ) ; 211 Schuyler Place (H) 272-3081
TC3 Div. of Instr . /Learning Bill Demo; 170 North St. ; PO Box 139 , Dryden 13053
ADDITIONAL MAILINGS:
Ithaca Journal Jeff Stimpson; Ithaca Journal 123 W. State St. (W) 274-9224
.
MINUTES
February 20, 1995 meeting of
Public Access Committee pro tempore
of the City of Ithaca Cable Commission
Call to order 7:42 p.m.
Present: Harvey Gitlin (PAC pro tem Chair), Rich Lawrence, Joseph Edkin,
Jill Brantley, Jeff Hetzel, Benjamin Fan, Robin Palmer,
Pauline Layton (6ev,.Acc. Comm. Chair)
Public Comment: None.
Minutes Approved: The minutes of the 1/30/95 PAC pro tempore
meeting, with appended resolutions, was approved unanimously.
Old Business:
Resolutions tabled from 1/30/95 meeting:
Number Brief Title Moved Seconded Vote
*12 pro tem PAC Tied Vote Brantley Hetzel P. Unan.
*13 pro tem PAC Voting Brantley Gitlin P. 5-2
(Brantley, Hetzel, Fan, Gitlin, Edkin,for;
Palmer, Lawrence, against)
New Business:
Next PAC pro tempore meeting: is scheduled for Monday, March 6,
1995, 7:30 p.m., at the Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC).
Number Brief Title Moved Seconded Vote
*14 pro tem PAC Subcommittee Gitlin Edkin P. Unan.
Membership
("Any interested party may be appointed to a pro
tempore PAC subcommittee.")
R 4
rt f}: v {
•
PA c. u-r t S
"• 2./3of 95
PAGE
Budget/Capital Equipment Subcommittee: was formed.
Members: Gitlin, Rick Gray, Layton (GrAC), others to appointed later.
Questions arise about the Committee of Chairs: What is its purpose?
What powers does it have? Who created/decided this? What paper gives it
existence? Gitlin will investigate.
Number Brief Title Moved Seconded Vote
115 PAC Minority Opinions Brantley Lawrence P. Unan.
X16 PAC Subcommittee Formation Lawrence Brantley P. Unan.
*17 PAC Tied Vote Brantley Fan P. 6-0-1
(Palmer, Gitlin, Fan, Hetzel, Brantley, Edkin, for;
Lawrence, abstain.)
x18 PAC Quorum Brantley Fan P. 5-2
(Gitlin, Edkin, Brantley, Hetzel, Fan, for;
Palmer, Lawrence, against.)
:19 PAC Meeting (tabled)
Motion to table Resolution #19, as well as all further business, until the
next meeting was passed.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:21 p.m.
Next meeting: 3/6/95, 7:30, GIAC
• r
•
t r n
• Resolutions presented by Edkin,Hetzel,and Kone 2/8/95
page 3
Pro Tempore PAC operations presented by Edkin,Hetzel,Kone. Dated 2/8/95. These resolutions
supercede any resolutions presented prior to the date above.
RESOLUTION# I J 7 �7/.. 00/14/t vs
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE TIED VOTE RESOLUTION
. In the event that the quorum of pro tempore Public Access Committee voting members are unable to
pass a resolution due to a tied vote,the resolution shall be tabled until the next regularly scheduled
pro tem PAC meeting when the resolution will be presented for a tie breaking vote. In the event of a
second tie,the resolution must be rewritten and represented to the pro tem PAC.
RESOLUTION# / 3 JILL 22
PRO TEMPORE PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE VOTING RESOLUTION
Members of the pro tempore Public Access Committee may not vote on resolutions brought before the
committee unless they are physically present at the meeting. Voting members may not appoint
anyone else to cast their votes in their absence.
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RESOLUTION# f
• a 1
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE MINORITY OPINIONS RESOLUTION
When the Public Access Committee passes a resolution which advises the Ithaca City Cable
Commission,a minority opinion may be attached in writing to the resolution. Only voting members
of the PAC may write minority opinions,and the written statement must be signed by its author(s).
RESOLUTION# � (,
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE SUB-COMMTTEE FORMATION RESOLUTION
The Public Access Committee may appoint by simple majority of the voting members of the PAC and
disband by two-thirds majority of the voting members of the PAC, sub-committees to do research and
make recommendations as the PAC deems necessary. The size and responsibilities of sub-committees
will be left to the discretion of the PAC. The chair may also reserve the right to form,but not
disband,sub-committees. Deadlines for reports to the PAC are at the discretion of the PAC and
members of the sub-committee may attach alternate opinions to the sub-committee's report. The PAC
may add members to a sub-committee by a simple majoirty of voting members. The PAC may
remove individuals from a sub-committee by a two-thirds majority of the voting members of the PAC.
At the first meeting following the term election of the Public Access Committee members,all
sub-committees must be reviewed. The incoming PAC may decide by simple majority vote of the
voting members to continue or by two-thirds majority vote of the voting members to disband any
sub-committees appointed by the PAC.
RESOLUTION# 17
PUBLIC ACCESS COM IITTEE TIED VOTE RESOLUTION
In the event that the quorum of Public Access Committee voting members are unable to pass a
resolution due to a tied vote,the resolution shall be tabled until the next regularly scheduled PAC
meeting when the resolution will be presented for a tie breaking vote. In the event of a second tie,the
resolution must be rewritten and represented to the SAC.
RESOLUTION#
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE QUORUM RESOLUTION
In order to assure reasonable discussion on any issues brought before the Public Access Committee,a
quorum of five voting members of the committee must be in attendance at a meeting to pass
resolutions. Members may not vote on resolutions brought before the committee unless they are
physically present at the meeting. Voting members may not appoint anyone else to cast their votes in
their absence.
7
MINUTES
March 6, 1995 meeting of
Public Access Committee pro tempore
of the City of Ithaca Cable Commission
Call to order 7 :43 p.m.
Present: Harvey Gitlin (PAC pro tem Chair) , Rich Lawrence,
Joseph Edkin, Jill Brantley, Jeff Hetzel , Benjamin Fan, Harel
Barzalai , Robin Palmer (7:45) , Will Kone (8: 32) ,
Public: Jean Finley ( ICCC Chair) , Lauren Stefanelli (TWC Rep. ) ,
Pauline Layton (Gov. Acc. Comm. Chair) , Rick Gray (Liaison to
Common Council ) .
Reading of the proposed Access Scheduling Resolution.
Public Comment:
Finley reported on her talk with the State Cable Commission
regarding scheduling priorities (may be First ,iillewlimerrtcoli (z'SERVt
violation to give further prioritization) and flex time (okay
with them) .
Gray points out that " local " is defined by the State CC as a
resident of New York State. Letter from Cris McConkey,
regarding the scheduling priorities of syndicated non-local vs.
local encore programming (syndi first run should be higher than
local encore; letter attached) .
Stefanelli answered questions regarding scheduling policy
needs (policy not necessary for this season, she can use
previous policies) . Kone arrives here. Letter from Laurie
Conrad, regarding the scheduling priorities of syndicated non-
local vs . local (too many syndi on Ch. 13, put on Ch . 57 instead;
letter attached) .
Old Business:
Resolutions tabled from 1/30/95 meeting:
Number Brief Title Moved Seconded Vote
#19 PAC Meeting (tabled)
All old business is tabled to discuss Access Scheduling Policy.
/6/95 pro tempore PAC minutes --p. 2
New Business:
Access Scheduling Policy: Discussion of proposed resolution for
much of the evening. Lawrence moves to adopt an old policy with
some rules changes, but withdraws the motion. Discussion stops.
Next PAC pro tempore meeting: is scheduled for Monday, March
20, 1995, 7: 30 p.m. , at the Greater Ithaca Activities Center
Report on Access Usage: presented by Layton.
'If oTIoi)
Motion to attach Layton Usage Report to minutes,
Mumplimer Brief Title Moved Seconded Vote
Usage Report Brantley Kone P. Unan.
Pro Tem PAC documents will be emailed to email users by default
unless the Chair is requested otherwise. Non-email users will
get hard copy by default.
Meeting was adjourned at 9: 10 p.m.
Next meeting: 3/20/95, 7 : 30, GIAC
Attachments:McConkley letter, Conrad letter, Access Usage Report
1 o e 7
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Cablecasting Scheduling Rules proposal — 1—
presented by Edkin,Hetzel,Kone,and Layton 3/5/95
• GABLECAST SCHEDULING
Definitions:
A CERTIFIED PRODUCER is an individual recognized by the Access Center as qualified to use
Access equipment to produce programming for PEGASYS channels.
An EXECUTIVE PRODUCER is an individual recognized by the Access Center as qualified to
produce programming for PEGASYS channels if assisted by a Certified Producer.
An PROGRAM PROVIDER is a individual who lives in an area served by PEGASYS who
submits a cablecasting request form(thereby accepting the legal responsibilities of a Producer)
and a program tape of a show not produced locally.
A SPONSOR is an individual or organization not directly involved in the production of an access
program, who contributes money or goods to cover production expenses and who receives
acknowledgement in the program credits. Sponsors may be a non-profit granting agency, a
corporation, group or individual.
A PROGRAM SERIES is defined as multiple programs by the same Producer(s) or Program
Provider(s)which all use the same title. Each program in the series may have different sub-titles
and talent, be of different things, or run at different times. Series Programs may be scheduled on
a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis.
new definition PRIME TIME is defined on Cable 13 as 6:00pm until 10:30pm. PRIME TIME on
Cable 57 will be 6:15pm until 10:15pm, should the start times change to the hour and half hour,
Prime Time will be defined as 6:00pm until 10:30pm.
new definition FLEX TIME is defined as the one night a week where Program Series may not be
regularly scheduled during Prime Time. The PEGASYS staff may choose to increase the amount
of Flex Time should it be deemed necessary.
TO BE ANNOUNCED TIME (TBA Time) is defined as time that has not been reserved by a
Producer or Program Provider two weeks prior to cablecast.
FIRST RUN PROGRAMMING is defined by the cable provider as the first two times a program
is cablecast in a year's time. This term applies to both literally First Run Programs and Encore
Programs. Note: this is in the franchise agreement.
ENCORE PROGRAMMING is defined by the cable provider as the first two times a repeat
program is cablecast in a year's time. A program's Encore status begins one year following its last
scheduled cablecast time and applies to both First Run and Encore Programming.
•
•
Cablecasting Scheduling Rules proposal —2—
presented by Edkin,Hetzel,Kone,and Layton 3/5/95
RESERVATION POLICIES
There will be three seasons per year. The first season will run from Jan 1 to April 30. The second
season will be May 1 to August 31. The third season will be September 1 to December 31.
PEGASYS staff will begin taking cablecast reservations one month prior to the beginning of each
season.
Six nights of Prime Time a week will be designated for regularly scheduled Program Series. One
night of Prime Time a week will be designated for Flex Time. These designations will be
determined by the PEGASYS staff.
A Producer or Program Provider may reserve no more than two hours a week (per Access
Channel) in Prime Time. This rule is waived if there is To Be Announced Time available or if a
Producer or Program Provider wishes to reserve Flex Time. (Refer to the rules governing Flex
Time below.)
A Producer or Program Provider may also reserve no more than one hour of outside of Prime
Time (per Access Channel) per week. This rule is waived if there is To Be Announced Time
available.
A Producer or Program Provider may schedule a First Run or Encore Program no more than
three times in a year(for Encore Programming, the year begins on the date of the final scheduled
cablecast). This rule does not apply in an emergency situation where a Producer or Program
Provider is unable to cablecast a new program in a regularly scheduled time slot and has to use a
repeat program to fill the time. A repeat in this situation is not counted against the Producer or
Program Provider's three scheduled cablecasts.
PEGASYS will begin taking reservations for Program Series one month prior to the start of each
season. Producers who are in good standing and already have a regularly scheduled time slot
have first choice to continue in their time slot. They must notify the PEGASYS staff that they
wish to remain in the time slot. If they have not confirmed their reservation two weeks prior to
the start of the new season, then they forfeit their time slot and it becomes available to any
Producer or Program Provider on a first come, first serve basis.
All other available time slots are open to any Producer or Program Provider in good
standing on a first come, first serve basis.
FLEX TIME RULES: One night a week(as determined by the PEGASYS staff It should not be
the same night for all Access Channels) should be flexible to allow for Producers to schedule
programming or to allow for longer First or Encore Programs. The PEGASYS staff will begin
taking reservations for this night one month prior to cablecast time. Priority must be given to
First Run or Encore Programming from local Producers, on a first come, first served basis. A
Producer or Program Provider may reserve up to two hours of time on this night, and may reserve
only two hours per month. Two weeks prior to cablecast time, reservations may be taken from
any Producer or Program Provider for any amount of To Be Announced Time left in accordance
to the To Be Announced Time rules (see below).
Cablecasting Scheduling Rules proposal —3—
presented by Edkin,Hetzel,Kone,and Layton 3/5/95
TO BE ANNOUNCED TIME RULES: A sign up sheet for TBA Time will be posted two weeks
prior to cablecast time. Any Producer or Program Provider in good standing may sign up for this
time on a first come, first served basis in any quantity, regardless of the amount of cablecast time
reserved by the Producer or Program Provider. Any time not reserved in advance by a Producer
or Program Provider becomes TBA Time when the list is posted by the PEGASYS Staff. A
Producer or Program Provider who has not reserved their three hours of scheduled time may
bump a Producer or Program Provider who has reserved all of their scheduled time from the TBA
schedule. No changes may be made to the TBA schedule three days prior to cablecast.
PROGRAM SCHEDULING PRIORITIES
Cable 13 programming priorities—
1) First Run Programs with a local Producer or Program Provider
2)Encore Programs with a local Producer or Program Provider
3) Unclaimed time should be filled with locally produced or sponsored programming
whenever possible. When it is not possible, then non-locally produced programming with or
without a Program Provider may be used.
Cable 57 programming priorities—
1)First Run Programs with a local Producer or Program Provider
2) Encore Programs with a local Producer or Program Provider
3) Unclaimed time should be filled with locally produced or sponsored programming
whenever possible, including live programming that is being cablecast on Cable 13.
When it is not possible, then non-locally produced programming with or without a Program
Provider may be used.
Encore Programming should not be allowed regularly scheduled cablecast time during prime-time
hours.
Non-locally produced shows with no Program Provider should not be allowed regularly scheduled
cablecast time on Cable 13.
A reserved time slot for a First Run program may not be reassigned without the written
permission of the Producer or Program Provider who has the previous reservation.
This resolution for cablecasting scheduling beings with the Summer Season of 1995. During the
first weeks of April 1995, all Producers in good standing who have regularly scheduled Program
Series in the Spring 1995 Season will have first choice for time slots. After that, times slots will
be reserved on a first come, first served basis, following the policies presented above.
i 7 TATC 1.1 t Vy 64,
3/6/95 tf roar
See /-es0/6716 ) 41 )
Airtime Use on Channels 13 and 57 1
Week of February 12 to 18, 1995
Report by Pauline Layton, March 2, 1995
The following study was intended to examine the results of
the December 1994 directive from the Ithaca City Cable
Commission to the Access Coordinator to assign airtime to
local Public Access series producers and to taped series
programming with local sponsors and to taped series
programming sent here by nonlocal NYS residents , by an
entirely equitable method. The method chosen was a lottery
system in which priority was assigned according to numbers
drawn at random.
Possible sources of error in the study: I usually rounded
off to the nearest fifteen minutes . This eliminated all the
time the logo tapes were running.
I may have under-represented the time used by Nick
Papatonis since I assumed his late shows didn' t run past
11 : 15 . This may mean that unassigned time is smaller than
here represented.
Public Access Channel 57 is only available to viewers with
newer-model cable-ready TV sets or with converter boxes .
which are still not universal . There ' s still a strong
perception among Access producers that airtime on 13 is more
desirable than airtime on 57 , in spite of a movement by Titus
Towers and others to block 13 out . Only Channel 13 can
cablecast 3/4" tapes at present . A separate investigation
into the popularity of 3/4" is being conducted.
In general , cablecasting on Public Access Channel 13 goes
from 3 pm to 11 : 30 pm for a total of 59. 5 possible hours per
week, and Public Access Channel 57 goes from 3 : 15 pm to 11 : 15
pm for a total of 56 possible hours per week. The grand
total is 115 . 5 possible hours of airtime. In practice some
of this time goes unassigned but may be claimed at the last
moment by T.B .A. programming. In the following study I made
no attempt to track down what that T.B.A. programming was ,
and I didn' t include it in the statistics except as "spare
time . "
In the week of February 12 to 18 , 1995 , 98.5 hours of airtime
were actually used by programming, with 53 . 5 hours on Ch. 13
and 45 hours on Ch. 57 . There were 5 . 5 hours of spare time
on Ch. 13 and 9 . 5 hours of spare time on Ch. 57 . This adds
to 15 hours of spare time. Certainly there was a sufficiency
of leftover time for last-minute producers , at least for this
week . The computerised schedule , which shows no blank
spaces , adds to the popular perception of a lack of spare
time .
Airtime Use on Channels 13 and 57 2
Week of February 12 to 18, 1995
On the two channels ,
67 hours were used by locally produced programming
16. 5 hours by nonlocal programming with a local sponsor
15 . 5 hours by nonlocal programming with no local sponsor
Close to a third of the airtime goes to non-locally produced
shows . 1/6 of airtime goes to non-locally produced shows
with no local sponsor .
As is popularly perceived, there turns out to be a lot of
religious or spiritual programming.
7 hours locally produced (of these 7 , 5 were on Ch. 13 )
11 hours nonlocal , with a local sponsor (5 . 5 on Ch. 13 )
9 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor (4. 5 on Ch. 13 )
This makes a total of 27 hours of R&S programming, about a
quarter of total airtime .
For comparison, consider the non-R&S shows (everything else ) :
60 hours locally produced ( 30 . 5 hours were on Ch. 13 )
5 . 5 hours nonlocal , with local sponsor (4 . 5 on Ch. 13 )
6. 5 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor (4 on Ch. 13 )
Of the nonlocally produced programming,
of the 16. 5 with a local sponsor , 11 hours is R&S.
of the 15 . 5 with no local sponsor, 9 hours is R&S.
20 hours of non-local programming are R&S, about a fifth of
total airtime .
Other non-local shows ( ie . not R&S ) :
2 . 5 hours non-local , with local sponsor ( 1 . 5 on Ch. 13 )
3 . 5 hours non-local , with no local sponsor ( 3 on Ch. 13 )
Use of prime time :
For purposes of this study, Access prime time is defined to
be 6 pm to 8 pm ( or 6 : 15 to 8 : 15 ) . (This covers the time
period in which large numbers of phone calls can be garnered
from serious viewers , therefore it ' s probably the time our
viewership peaks . ) Real prime time is defined to be 8 pm to
10 pm ( or 8 : 15 to 10 : 15 ) . (During Real prime time the
commercial networks give us heavy competition. )
Use of Access prime time on Ch. 13 :
5 . 5 hours locally produced
4 . 75 hours nonlocal , with local sponsor
4 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor
Use of Access prime time on Ch. 57 :
7 . 5 hours locally produced
Airtime Use on Channels 13 and 57 3
week of February 12 to 18 , 1995
2 hours nonlocal , with local sponsor
1 . 5 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor
Use of Real prime time on Ch. 13 :
12 hours locally produced ( 10. 5 in a normal week)
1 hours nonlocal , with local sponsor ( 1 . 5 normal )
. 5 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor ( 1 . 5 normal )
(The Peggy Awards displace American Atheists Forum and hOUR
iEAR this week. )
Use of Real prime time on Ch. 57 :
8 . 5 hours locally produced
1 . 5 hours nonlocal , with local sponsor
3 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor
Local use of airtime - 67 hours by local producers :
25 local Public Access producers made use of time , producing
30 different shows . (Actually it ' s more than this , if you
add up the different shows that are produced under one name ,
for instance , Speaking of Theater aired shows # 71 , 73 , 101 . )
The 3 most productive producers used 36 hours , which is over
half the locally produced hours and over a third of total
airtime . The 6 most productive producers used 46 hours ,
which is about 2/3 of locally used time and about half of
total time .
Jean Finley (et al ) 12. 5 hours
Bill McCormick 12 hours
Nick Papatonis 11 . 5 hours
Will Kone 4 hours
Robin Palmer 3 hours
Sandra DeLibero 3 hours
Local talkshows - 48 hours , about half the total airtime on
13 and 57 ! There were 14 shows that fell into the
classification of talkshow (note that RAI and RATC each only
count once ) .
Live call-ins , or replays thereof - 21 hours . 5 different
shows . 4 different producers were involved. About 1/5 of
total airtime went to call-ins .
Local issue shows - 34. 5 hours . 8 different shows . This is
roughly a third of total airtime , and half of locally used
airtime .
Political shows:
4 hours locally produced ( of these 4 , 3 were on Ch. 13 )
10' .!>"?.?
Airtime Use on .Channels 13 and 57 4
Week of February 12 to 18 , 1995
( also 3 hours nonlocal , with a local sponsor (3 on Ch. 13 )
and 3 hours nonlocal , with no local sponsor ( 1 on Ch. 13 ) )
Political shows used about 1/10 of total airtime .
Replays of older local productions - 2. 5 hours
Video Art , avant garde, music video - 9. 5 hours . About 1/10
of total airtime .
Documentaries - 3 . 5 hours , includes 2. 5 older productions .
Shows produced mainly in the studio - 47. 5 hours . About half
of total airtime , and about 2/3 of local use of airtime .
Shows involving heavy editing - 18 hours , maybe more. About
1/5 of total airtime . At least 1 hour was edited elsewhere .
•
It is anticipated that a third channel , Ch. 56, will become
available for Public Access use in August , 1995 .
•
Proposed PAC bylaws (3/6 draft) ---p. 1
Questions or comments can be addressed to Joe Edkin Q 272-0149.
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE ELECTION OF OFFICERS RESOLUTION
At the first regularly scheduled meeting of the Public Access Committee
following the term election of PAC voting members, the members of the
committee shall elect a chair person and a secretary from their number .
The chair person shall prepare agendas and chair each PAC meeting, or
shall delegate this responsibility to another voting member of the PAC
should the chair be unable to attend a meeting. The secretary or their
delegate shall be responsible for : maintaining attendance records for all
PAC meetings, taking the meeting minutes, presenting them to the members,
and delivering the approved minutes to the Ithaca City Clerk; preparing
resolutions for voting; and final composition of resolutions that are to
be sent to the Ithaca City Cable Commission.
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE MEETINGS RESOLUTION
The Public Access Committee shall hold regularly scheduled public meetings
at least once a month . At the first meeting following the term election
of PAC.members, a regular public meeting time will be determined. The PAC
reserves the right to hold additional public meetings in order to carry
out its business .
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE ABSENCE RESOLUTION
Each voting member of the Public Access Committee shall be allowed to miss
two regularly scheduled PAC meetings out of twelve. On the third absence,
the PAC will vote on the issue of replacing the committee member . It will
require the approval of at least five of the voting members of the
committee in attendance at a regularly scheduled meeting to remove the
member who has missed more than two regularly scheduled meetings. The PAC
may elect a pro tempore voting member to serve out the term of the person
whom they replace in accordance with the rules of vacancy and/or the rules
governing leave(s) of absence.
Proposed PAC bylaws (3/6 draft) ---p. 2
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE LEAVE OF ABSENCE RESOLUTION
A voting member of the Public Access Committee may request a leave of
absence in writing for any reason. The leave can not be turned down by
the PAC. The leave of absence may not extend past the member 's term of
office. The PAC must elect a pro tempore voting member to fill the absent
seat as per the rules of vacancy. The pro tempore member must surrender
the seat upon the return of the voting member or the end of the member ' s
term.
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE RULES OF VACANCY RESOLUTION
A vacant seat on the Public Access Committee shall be defined as the
following: a seat left open due to the resignation in writing of a voting
member of the PAC; a seat left open due to a leave of absence as defined
by the rules governing leave(s) of absence; a seat left open due to the
continued absence of a voting member and that the PAC has chosen to
replace in accordance with the rules governing absence. The PAC may elect
a pro tempore voting member to fill any vacant seat(s)
**PLEASE NOTE: The following resolutions are not fully formed as they
raise as many questions as they answer .
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE NOMINATIONS RESOLUTION
Any resident of Tompkins County who is served by the Public, Educational ,
and Governmental Access System may be nominated or nominate themselves for
any open seat on the Public Access Committee. Individuals reserve the
right to decline a nomination or remove their name from nomination.
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE GENERAL ELECTION NOMINATIONS RESOLUTION
Nominations for the general election to fill open seats must be received
in writing along with a brief statement detailing why they wish to join
the Public Access Committee and what they have to offer the PAC. The
nominations process begins April 1st. All nominations must be received by
April 30th .
QUESTION : Where are the nominations collected?
Proposed PAC bylaws (3/6 draft) ---p. 3
QUESTION: Does the secretary (or another member of the PAC) collect /
receive the nominations?
QUESTION: Does the secretary (or another member of the PAC) confirm all
nominations?
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE BALLOT RESOLUTION
Ballots for the general election must be distributed by May 7th. All
nominees must be listed on the ballot along with their brief statement.
The secretary shall prepare the ballots . Should the secretary be unable
to fulfill this function, the chair shall appoint a voting member of the
Public Access Committee to prepare the ballots.
QUESTION: Where do the ballots come from? (financial considerations)
QUESTION: Who distributes the ballots? How are they distributed?
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE GENERAL ELECTION RESOLUTION
Any resident of Tompkins County who is served by the Public, Educational ,
and Governmental Access System is eligible to vote in the general
election. Individuals may cast one vote per nominee. Individuals may
cast as many votes as there are open seats, but no more than the number of
open seats . Ballots must be received by June 1st . The individual must
deliver their ballot in a sealed envelope with their name, address , and
phone number on the outside of the envelope, but not on the ballot itself .
The envelopes should be marked "ballot enclosed. "
QUESTION: Who receives the ballots? Where are the ballots received?
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT TALLYING RESOLUTION
At the first public meeting of June, the Public Access Committee shall
review the envelopes in which the ballots were delivered. Any envelope
that is challenged is set aside. All remaining envelopes are opened and
the ballots put into a large container to be mixed. The secretary, and
his or her appointees from the voting membership of the PAC, must then
tally the votes . Should the secretary be unable to fulfill this
function, the chair shall appoint a voting member of the Public Access
Committee to tally the votes. No member of the PAC whose name is on the
ballot may be involved in the tallying of the votes . Winners of the
_ t
Proposed PAC bylaws (3/6 draft) ---p. 4
election will be announced immediately and the winners ' names given to the
Ithaca City Cable Commission for their June meeting.
QUESTION: What happens if all members of the PAC are on the ballot?
QUESTION: Should the PAC be involved in the counting of ballots at all?
If not they, then who?
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE CHALLENGED BALLOTS RESOLUTION
We really need to figure out how we will handle challenged ballots.
How many PAC members have to agree to challenge a ballot?
What determines why a ballot can or should be challenged?
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE APPOINTED SEATS NOMINATIONS RESOLUTION
Any individual interested in filling an open appointed seat on the Public
Access Committee may submit their name to the Ithaca City Cable Commission
in writing along with a brief statement detailing why they wish to join
the PAC and what they have to offer the PAC. The PAC may also supply the
ICCC with a list of nominees for the appointed seats . The ICCC also
reserves the right to make nominations. The period of nominations for
appointed seats begins on May 15th. All nominations must be received by
the ICCC no later than their June meeting.
NOTE : Operation of the ICCC is not the purview of the PAC. We will have
to accept the ICCC' s procedures in the issue of appointing PAC members.
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPOINTED SEATS RESOLUTION
The Ithaca City Cable Commission must announce appointees to the Public
Access Committee no later than June 30th.
NOTE : Operation of the ICCC is not the purview of the PAC. We will have
to accept the ICCC' s procedures in the issue of appointing PAC members .
RESOLUTION #
PUBLIC ACCESS COMMITTEE SLATE OF NOMINATIONS FOR GENERAL ELECTION
RESOLUTION
Should there not be enough nominees to fill the slate for the Public
Access Committee general election, the Ithaca City Cable Commission shall
fill any leftover open seats.