County wants input from Comcast cable customers about service

Before renewing a franchise agreement with Comcast, and extending the company’s use of the public right-of-way for cable TV services, county officials want to hear from Comcast’s cable TV customers to see if they are satisfied with what they’re getting.

“Public input would be very helpful in determining whether Comcast has met its obligations to extend cable in Morgan County if and when it is economically feasible, provide quality service, and respond to complaints,” said Jerry Berman, who heads the county’s Comcast franchise committee.

The county is asking Comcast customers to take a survey about these questions and send in their written comments or attend a public hearing scheduled for Friday, March 16 at 6 p.m. in the County Commission room.

The survey can be found on the county government website.

Meeting obligations?

Berman was appointed to the committee by Commis-sion President Stacy Dugan, who wanted citizens and officials to take a serious look at the 10-year franchise agreement before it came up for renewal in May.

Under the current agreement, Comcast pays the county 5% of its gross revenue for use of the public right-of-way where its TV cables run.

The agreement generates roughly $47,000 per year for the county.

Other provisions of the contract say the cable company must give free basic cable to some public institutions, and should extend its services wherever there are 15 homes grouped around its service area.

“Before we negotiate with them on their proposal, we’re trying to get a firm grip on whether they’ve met their obligations,” said Berman.

He and the commissioners encouraged Comcast cable TV customers to send in or share comments about their experiences with Comcast up until the public hearing on March 16.

Comments can be directed to the Morgan County Commission office.