Posts in Telecommunications Minutes
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
February 6, 2012
Attendance:Joseph Wagner, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffman andBrandon Underwood
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus andPromotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Katie Colony
Hoffmancalled the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was in attendance for the meeting. Grassley said that Mediacom is going through a big transition, changes in personnel and attitudes. Mediacom has a new spokeslady. They also are doing some rebranding and want to be knows as simple and reliable. Mediacom is working on 30 minute service windows which will fall between 8:00 am thru 8:30 am and 1:00 pm thru 1:30 pm and eventually working in 5:00 pm thru 5:30 pm. Mediacom is doing this because they know people can’t miss work for hours just waiting on the cable company to arrive at their home. Mediacom is also working on cycling their service calls. Before they didn’t work on weekends so Monday and Tuesday would be their busiest days trying to catch up from the weekends. However, the last 3 weeks they have started working on Saturdays, Sundays and nights. Mediacom is currently working on a plan to be better in customer service. They don’t want to lose customers because of customer service issues. Mediacom currently has 101 HD channels. The digital transition went smoothly. Grassley touched on Retransmission Consent which is causing cable companies to be charged an alarming amount. A letter from Mediacom is attached in the packet describing this in detail. Grassley urged citizens to contact their Congressmen to help the cable companies fight against the unfair fees that are being charged by local broadcast stations.
South Slope Update.
Dan Swickwas in attendance for the meeting. He also touched on the topic of Retransmission Consent. Swick said that South Slope just went through retransmission negotiations. He also urged citizens to contact their Congressmen. Swick also urged citizens to visit www.americantelevisionalliance.com site. Swick said that more HD channels are coming for South Slope. On March 1st, 2012 they will be offering Fox Business News. Swick said they have one subdivision left for the fiber to home project. They do have 400 homes left in which they are trying to get a hold of the homeowners so they can also participate in this project. South Slope will be moving this project to Fairfax and Walford next. Swick said they will be adding more marketing and sales personnel.
Franchise and Community Partnership Agreements Update
Caplinger said they are working with South Slope and Mediacom on HD signals and marketing events for North Liberty. Caplinger said we should hear from the City Attorney before the next meeting. Wagner asked what the City Attorney was putting together. Caplinger said that this was still in the early stages and this is the first pass on this so they are just starting with that. Hoffman asked how this will work if there was a contract or not. Caplinger said it would be more like a good faith agreement. Who knows how things will change in the future just want a continued relationship with South Slope and Mediacom. Underwood asked if it would be a uniform agreement from both or one from each. Caplinger said it would be separate agreements since one company may be able to do something that the other would not and maybe one will do something that both companies can share.
Commissioners’ comments.
None
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger said that their department has been working with the iPads and fielding calls from people throughout the country on how North Liberty made the transition and how it’s working. Caplinger said they are taking two to three calls per week. Livestream continues with improvement. Caplinger said that the community outreach is growing. They are working with the schools and nonprofits.
Last Meeting Of Commissioner Denise Schechinger.
Schechinger thanked everyone and encouraged citizens to volunteer for the committees to work with great people like the ones on the Telecommunications Commission. Schechinger wished continued success of the NLTV department.
Approval of November 7th, 2011 meeting minutes.
Schechinger moved to approve the minutes from November, Wagnerseconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 7th, 2012. Wagner said that we should wait for the Community Partnership Agreements if the timing will be close.
Wagner moved, seconded by Hoffmanto adjourn the meeting at 6:33 pm. Motion passed with all in favor
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
November 7, 2011
Attendance:Joseph Wagner, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffman, Brandon Underwood and Katie Colony
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus andPromotion Producer Erika Harper
Hoffmancalled the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public.None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was absent from the meeting. There was no update except the information provided in the packet.
South Slope Update.
Dan Swick and Sean Maher were in attendance to represent South Slope. Maher said the MLB channel has been launched. There have been a few other programming changes which were included in the packet. Maher let us know the Business High Speed Plan started last week. And Maher said that drop crews were currently working on Forever Green Rd and 12th Ave followed by cleanup crews.
Franchise and Community Partnership Agreements Discussion
Caplinger said that the community partnership agreements such as Prime Time, live stream from the NLTV office and franchise payments are under discussion. The City Attorney and the City Administrator are now involved and Caplinger said that they hope to come back by spring time with an agreement. Hoffman wanted to know what is your basis. Caplinger said the franchise agreement is the basis regarding the quarterly payments, the way the signal goes out and NLTV’s lineup. Caplinger stated that South Slope moved us to channel 268. There has been a public service announcement to let South Slope customers know about this. Hoffman asked if Caplinger found out what other communities have done regarding the franchise agreement. Caplinger said that the City Attorney is looking into that. Caplinger, the City Attorney and the City Administrator are going to meet after Thanksgiving to discuss and then they will be meeting with South Slope after New Year’s.
Commissioners’ comments.
Hoffman reminded everyone that elections were tomorrow and to remember to vote.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger thanked South Slope who was going to be installing the Business Package which will be faster and has a stronger signal. Caplinger said that there was a lot going on this month and thru the end of the year.
a. Council Chambers Relocation
Caplinger then handed it over to Nick Bergus because he and Erika Harper worked on the new Council Chambers. Bergus said that there were lots of problems with the old facility that they learned from. There are microphones in the back for the audience in case someone who is speaking doesn’t come up to the lectern. Bergus said they’re also speakers in the ceiling for the audience to hear the councilors easier. Their intention was to eliminate paper as much as possible which the iPads help with. Bergus said that there was also a computer in the lectern so people can bring in PowerPoint presentations or maps or whatever else was needed. They plan on being in the current Chambers for six to ten years so they wanted to make sure it was done right. Bergus also stated that due to the extra room they are able to fit more people up front. Caplinger said that we are one of the first to make some of these changes and that the Board of Supervisors is also looking into the iPads. Caplinger also said that Bergus and Harper wrote an article for a trade magazine that will provide more information for other cities and counties. Wagner wanted to know what other North Liberty committees thought, ones who had to make or take more notes. Caplinger said that notepads are still used by some, some write on the iPad or some use a keypad. People are figuring out what works best for them and she is still working through a lot of questions from the users.
b. Channel Move
Caplinger wanted to remind everyone that South Slope moved NLTV to channel 268 and they are still on channel 5 through Mediacom. Wagner asked if this channel was offered to everyone or if it was on a special tier or package. Caplinger said it was offered to everyone and Swick stated that was correct also.
Approval of August 1st, 2011 meeting minutes.
Wagner moved to approve the minutes from August, Colony seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 6th, 2012.
Colony moved, seconded by Wagner to adjourn the meeting at 6:15 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
August 1, 2011
Attendance:Joseph Wagner, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffmanand Brandon Underwood
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger andPromotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Katie Colony and Production Coordinator Nick Bergus
Hoffmancalled the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public.None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was absent from the meeting. There was no update except the information provided in the packet.
South Slope Update.
Dan Swick was there to represent South Slope. Swick said there were updating the channel lineup. The notice to customers went out in their bills today. Also a copy was provided for the Commission. Swick said the reason they are looking forward towards additional content. Currently they have 57 HD channels. South Slope is trying to categorize all of the channels. To switch to an HD channel you add 400 to the current channel you’re on. Swick said that per customer request they are adding MLB channel. Also included with the customers’ bill this month and the channel changes are common questions and answers. Also KCRG is coming out with WeatherNow that they will be adding. On September 7th is when customers will see the new changes regarding the channel changes. Wagner asked about noticing a bill increase and wanted to know if it had any connection to the fiber installation. Swick said that the programmer’s cost effected the video pricing and that was the reason for the increase. Swick said they compete on service not cost. Schechinger asked how is the fiber install coming along. Swick said it has been pushed back due to the Tsunami. But they will be finishing in North Liberty. Other communities seeing the delay. Caplinger asked when the South Slope franchise agreement expired. Swick said it was 2014 and believed it was in November.
Franchise and Community Partnership Agreements Discussion
Caplinger said that both South Slope and Mediacom will go state and will no longer be on the municipal agreement. There are pros and cons. Caplinger said that with a CPA (Community Partnership Agreements) there are elements from the franchise that we can ask for like PEG fees. We need to know what we can give back in return. Wagner asked if they were no longer legally required for PEG fees. Caplinger stated that that was correct. Hoffman asked if they were required to carry our channel. Swick said that our channel was already in place and only requirement was 5%. Caplinger thought that maybe because of the HD channels that our channel would be moved. Wagner asked Swick if that 5% still goes to the community and Swick answered yes. Swick said that lower channel numbers have to be negotiated because everyone wants the lower channel numbers. Wagner asked about the PEG fees being a small loss of revenue and how that would affect service or would there be a loss of services. Caplinger said they don’t handle just the television part anymore. Their budget is $200,000 and the PEG fees add up where the funds come from. The cable companies still will pay fees to the Iowa Utilities Board. Wagner asked if they are pushed back to the communities. Caplinger said not necessarily. Wagner said that maybe we could check out how other communities were handling it and what changes were they seeing. Caplinger said that South Slope and Mediacom agreements were contingent on each other and that we should start making plans now because it would probably be September 2013 for both agreements with the companies. Wagner asked if both cable companies want some sort of partnership with North Liberty. Caplinger said yes. Wagner asked what do we have to offer them? Caplinger said it is a community service, they won’t stop it is just who will oversee everything. Iowa Utilities Board may be willing to work with the communities. Caplinger is going to talk to the City Attorney, Scott Peterson about what this means for our commission and the channel.
Commissioners’ comments.
Schechinger said that she enjoyed seeing “FaceNick” on Facebook. Caplinger said that Nick is the keeper of our social network and they were receiving frequently asked questions and so Nick would be discussing those questions once a month. They had 200 friends last year and this year they have 450 friends/likes on Facebook.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger said they are big on social networking right now. They are also working on using less paper. Council Chambers will be using iPads and we are the first in the state. Caplinger said this means less paper and less time regarding preparing the packets for meetings and delivering them. The move to the new chambers is scheduled for August 9th, but this may change. The new chambers will have updated technology. Caplinger said that there will be speakers in the audience so people can hear better. Caplinger said that the Blues & BBQ fest did not have a fantastic attendance, but it did rain until 6. The fireworks were fantastic along with the bands and the food. Hoffman asked if the iPads would be used by everyone. Caplinger said yes.
Approval of April 4th, 2011 meeting minutes.
Wagnermoved to approve the minutes from April, Schechinger seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 7th, 2011.
Schechingermoved, seconded by Wagnerto adjourn the meeting at 6:28 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
April 4th, 2011
Attendance: Katie Colony, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffman and Glen Cox
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus and Promotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Joseph Wagner
Hoffman called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was absent from the meeting. Caplinger stated that in March Mediacom handed out converters and that they are working on various projects. Caplinger also said that they are working with Mediacom and South Slope on franchise negotiations.
South Slope Update.
Heath Rinderknecht was at the meeting to represent South Slope he is the Video Services Coordinator. Rinderknecht said that South Slope added 18 new HD channels in 2010. In the next three weeks 10 more HD channels would be added due to customer requests. South Slope is now adding bundle packages (more information was included in the packet) and these are based on what customers are asking for. Rinderknecht said that ESPN3.com is being offered for free to South Slope customers with internet subscription which offers more live sports feed. Rinderknecht suggested people go to southslope.com for more information regarding what they are offering. The fiber project is on it’s last stage, but still ongoing. Rinderknecht said that the major portion of the construction is finished.
Commissioners’ comments.
None
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger said that their working on the relocation of the Council Chambers which will be at Quail Creek Circle by 7-01-11. There may be down time due to the wiring and waiting for furniture, but they will let people know about the timeline. The lease on that facility will be up in 2015. City Hall and the Council Chambers will be located in the new facility.
Caplinger said they are looking for volunteers for Prime Time. And they are working with the public on programming. Hoffman asked when Prime Time starts and Caplinger stated in June. Caplinger said they do have some questions regarding games on Sundays and will be finding that out.
Caplinger stated that Quail Creek is a better location and that the current location for Council Chambers would be used by the fire department and they would also have access to the parking lot.
Hoffman asked about the NLTV budget and if all of their necessary resources will be covered. Caplinger said they are looking over the franchise negotiations and will let us know and if they can be negotiated. The City Attorney is reviewing other cities’ documents to see what they’ve done in the past to get an idea.
Colony asked about the new playback system and how it was working. Bergus stated it was working very well and nice to have.
Hoffman asked if we were going to have the annual picnic with Coralville this year. Caplinger said she would check into it.
Approval of December 6th, 2010 meeting minutes.
Cox moved to approve the minutes from December, Colony seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 1st, 2011.
Colony moved, seconded by Cox to adjourn the meeting at 6:12 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
December 6, 2010
Attendance: Katie Colony, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffman, Joseph Wagner and Glen Cox
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus and Promotion Producer Erika Harper
Hoffman called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley with Mediacom was at the meeting to discuss the current Sinclair negotiations. Grassley stated that there was movement by both sides. He is optimistic that there will be a deal by the expiration of the current contract which is 12-31-10. Grassley said that news will be coming soon regarding the deal. They are trying for a 2 year deal instead of a 1 year deal like they normally have had.
Tom Larson also from Mediacom was at the meeting to discuss the digital transition update. Larson handed out a packet regarding the transition which will take place June of 2012. They are phasing out analog for all digital devices. The analog channels between 23-78 will be phased out for faster internet, 105-Meg faster downloads which is one of the fastest in the state. The picture and sound quality will be faster. Larson stated that DTA’s (Digital Transport Adapter/Digital Tuner) will be going out for free for analog TVs to their customers. It’s a small device with cords and a remote that’s hooked up to your TV. These DTAs will be stocked on trucks in January and February and can be installed at that time by Mediacom employees. The DTAs will also be available at the call centers, can be sent by mail or you can drop by a Mediacom office to pick one up. Larson said that in March a few of the analog channels will be turned off, just doing a few at a time. With the analog channels being removed this will mean more channels and product enhancement. There will be community forums four to six weeks before all channels are switched over from analog to let people know. Cox asked if the remote has multifunction like a universal remote. Larson stated that he didn’t believe it was a universal remote it was just for the tuner itself. Hoffman asked what customers would see on the TV screen once the analog channel has been removed/the ones that are no longer offered? Larson said he believed there would be a message on the screen. Grassley also stated that there will be some sort of a crawl at the bottom of the screen.
South Slope Update.
JR Brumley from South Slope was at the meeting for updates. Brumley said that the process to connect the fiber directly to the home started last April/May. The copper that was being used was being pushed by customers for more such as HD and faster internet. So due to this, fiber is being put in. Six years ago fiber started going in in the new sub-divisions. They have now started putting in fiber everywhere in North Liberty. Brumley stated that they are ½ done at this point and hope to be done by July. However, Brumley stated that the fiber directly to the home itself may not be in the mobile home parks. When South Slope finishes with North Liberty they will move on to Fairfax, Norway and Newhall. Dan Swick was also in attendance for South Slope. Swick stated that more HD will be offered after the fiber project is done. $54.95 is the top programming cost. Swick stated that South Slope also is going through retransmission negotiations. South Slope is also trying to keep costs down. Justin Miller was also there as a representative for South Slope. Miller stated that as long as the weather holds out they will keep on working on installing the fiber. And with the current fiber that is being installed, that in the future if this is not enough they will be able to just switch out the ends instead of having to install new fiber. Cox stated that his son has been approached at his home for the physical install of the fiber and needed to dig up his yard. Cox’s son said no so Cox wanted to know how customers are notified and if they have to do it. Miller said South Slope has taken a list from the Post Office and that a postcard is sent to the customer prior to this happening. Miller said that right now the cable installation is free, but it may not be in the future. Miller stated that the customer’s yard is fixed after the install and they make sure the customer is happy when the contractors leave the area. If a customer chooses not to have the fiber installed at the time the contractors are in the area and later changes his/her mind the customer might have to pay for the contractors to come back to the area to do the install. Miller said it does matter on the location of the home as to how much ground/yard interruption is done. Miller encouraged the public not to let the opportunity go by since it’s free at this time. Wagner asked how does South Slope re-coop the cost of the fiber install? Brumley stated that South Slope is a Coop, a non-profit organization. Some have one service and some have multi-services. This is being done for all members. Wagner asked what enhancements are we getting now? Miller stated that the multi-room DVR is available along with 3D services and more HD. Miller said there is no plan to raise rates. They will be increasing services such as voice services/features for phone and computer along with other new features. Miller said to come into the South Slope facility to see the new services. Colony asked about the subdivisions that were done about 6 years ago that they were talking about earlier, how are they being handled. Miller said that those subdivisions had a fiber connection that was sufficient but was updated bored/plowed in with a new backbone fiber. Caplinger asked about the new development and how was that handled with the new fiber. Miller said that from this point forward it will not be an issue that the backbone piece is good and would just have to change the equipment on both ends. Brumley stated that South Slope did hire a contractor now to get the install of the fiber done faster, but South Slope does have it’s own crew that can do the install in the future. Miller also indicated that they have employees that work with the contractors and the customer so you can work directly with a South Slope employee. Caplinger asked if the South Slope fiber lines were exclusive. Miller stated that they are exclusive lines. Cox wanted to know if Mediacom could piggy-back on these fiber lines or any room for anyone else like Kirkwood. Miller said this is a dedicated plan just for South Slope. Swick said that there can be a fiber feedout for Kirkwood.
Commissioners’ comments.
Cox thanked the cable representatives for being there and answering questions. Brumley said that the copper had reached the end of it’s life and needed something new.
Telecommunications staff report.
Bergus said that the playback system was acting sick and died last week. Bergus said that they now had a nice big video server. We now have a system that we needed. The new system was built for playback of videos on PEG channels. You can access it remotely which makes scheduling easier. Bergus said he is still figuring out how to do things with it, but it’s easier to use and is happy with it. Caplinger stated that before this new system for example snow emergencies had to be posted before leaving the office, but now can be done from home.
Caplinger said that Code Red is a new system on the North Liberty website. Residents could sign up for the new Code Red system which is a notification system that can use either emails or text messaging. This new system is similar to the Hawk Alert system. This is also free. Customers can choose where the notifications are sent either via emails or text messages. The public can sign up for this on the North Liberty website under Community Links. The alerts are specified by address and not by area codes. Wagner asked what policy dictates when messages go out or for what. Caplinger said there is a contract with Johnson County that the city council approved. It is specific to emergencies only and not used for things such as PR. Wagner wanted to know if the website says what it can be used for? Caplinger said that they will put the info on the website to explain what it’s used for. Colony asked if there was a way to track the number of people that sign up. Caplinger said yes that messages come back if calls are answered or for bad phone numbers or failed attempts. Wagner asked if the system was designed for lots of notifications and for how fast the messages can go out. Caplinger said the system will continue through the list even if it gets stuck on one. We will see how the first year goes. Caplinger encouraged residents to sign up for this system. Colony asked who can residents complain to or if they have suggestions. Caplinger stated that it depends what the complaint/suggestion is, possibly it would have to go to Code Red itself. Caplinger said that this is not an automatic sign up, that residents have to physically sign up themselves.
Caplinger said that the new Playback system is a little noisy so they will be putting it in the closet and getting rid of the broken and unused equipment that’s currently occupying the closet. The NLTV’s current projects are listed in the packet and there is info on the website, newletters and TV channels. Caplinger said that it’s been a busy but good year.
Approval of August 2nd, 2010 meeting minutes.
Wagner moved to approve the minutes from August, Colony seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 7, 2011.
Cox moved, seconded by Wagner to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
August 2nd, 2010
Attendance: Katie Colony, Denise Schechinger, Valerie Hoffman and Joseph Wagner
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger and Promotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Glen Cox and Production Coordinator Nick Bergus
Hoffman called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Grassley stated that included in our packet was Mediacom’s letter of intent to renew their franchise with the state of Iowa. Grassley met with Ryan Heiar the City Administrator and with Caplinger regarding the renewal. Grassley said that the new renewal which is with the state of Iowa instead of North Liberty itself will not affect the relationship with North Liberty. Wagner wanted to know what this means to the city and Mediacom’s subscribers since this will now be with the state instead of the city. Caplinger said that the PEG fees will no longer go to the city, but the services will be unchanged. Grassley said that because Mediacom has transitioned to a digital platform that every new subscriber has to have digital service if necessary using the converter. Mediacom will give one converter free for life for those who need one and each additional converter is $2.00. Because of the faster internet and more HD channels more bandwith is needed. Wagner asked what the impact on NLTV and its operations would be regarding the PEG fees. Caplinger said that they are altering their budget and they make money in other areas. Also that the NLTV’s services would not go down. The PEG fees equaled about $4,000 per quarter from Mediacom. It may affect NLTV more if South Slope does the same. NLTV is preparing now for equipment that they may need in the future. Caplinger said they have been fiscally responsible so the impact would be minimal. Wagner wanted to know if the city can’t deny the renewal with the state instead of the city. Caplinger said correct, they cannot deny it, but they are working on a community partnership agreement with Mediacom. And also that South Slope would soon be sending an agreement similar. Wagner wanted to know if the North Liberty citizens were concerned who should they go to? Caplinger said to send questions/concerns to the Telecommunication Commission. We are also waiting for more information. Caplinger said that residents shouldn’t see anything different as far as the renewal with the state instead of the city.
Grassley said there is also the Sinclair issue. Mediacom wanted a three year agreement and they didn’t get that and had to settle with a one year agreement so now they’re in negotiations with Sinclair again. Grassley said they have offered Sinclair plenty of options. Grassley stated that they are working hard on Capitol Hill for customers. Mediacom said they don’t want to be shut off again that if no agreement it should be taken to an arbitrator. Sinclair does not agree with that. The current agreement expires December 31st. Grassley said that there were two big fights on the east coast with broadcasters. Also that IA may be playing football after January 1st in a bowl game so not having Sinclair may be a big deal in that regard. Grassley said that the community can contact their congressmen and we should expect a nasty fight again. Grassley said if they do go off the air again that there won’t be a fix like last time when antennas were available.
South Slope Update.
The South Slope franchise agreement expires in 2014. The City Administrator has a meeting set up to discuss the agreement with them. Included in the packet and available on the website are South Slope’s lineup changes.
Meeting Schedule Decision From City Council.
Caplinger stated that City Council approved the schedule change of having it quarterly or as needed.
Board Appointments.
Joe Wagner has renewed his term with the commission which will now expire June 2013.
Commissioners’ comments.
None
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger stated that there is a lot of information in the packet. One special thing is the press release regarding construction. Also that the system Code Red is being looked into which would send text messages to phones like the current emails being sent out now. Caplinger stated that the Fun Run is in the middle of September and that their looking for runners/walkers and volunteers. Caplinger also said that there is a lot of independent community programs, people giving NLTV programs to show.
Approval of May 3rd, 2010 meeting minutes.
Wagner moved to approve the minutes from May, Hoffman seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
Determine Next Possible Meeting Date.
Hoffman said it can be scheduled tentatively for November, but if nothing changes or important happens then December.
Colony moved, seconded by Wagner to adjourn the meeting at 6:25 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
May 3, 2010
Attendance: Glen Cox, Valerie Hoffman and Joseph Wagner
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryle Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus, Promotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Katie Colony, and Denise Schechinger
Cox called the meeting to order at 6:05 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was absent from the meeting, but included in the packet are franchise payments and HD lineup channel changes.
South Slope Update.
Stephanie Rourke was not in attendance, but sent HD lineup changes via email.
Cable Access Policy and Procedure Guideline.
The finalized version of the guidelines was included in the packet. These will be the standing policies for NLTV.
Meeting Schedule Discussion.
As monthly meetings may be too frequent for the commission to meet, the board wanted to append ordinance 2.22.070 for meeting requirements. What currently reads as “the commission shall hold at least one regular meeting during each calendar month” would be “…not less than quarterly or as needed.” The change was motioned by Wagner, seconded by Cox. Motion passed with all in favor. The recommendation may go before council for approval later in May.
Commissioners’ comments.
Hoffman thanked the staff for their work on the policy and procedure guidelines.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger reported that Liberty Centre Blues & BBQ is Sunday, May 30 from noon-10pm. The planning committee is still looking for volunteers for the day of the party. Caplinger advised commissioners and residents to visit the Web site northlibertyiowa.org/bluesandbbq for more information.
Caplinger also provided updates on construction on Highway 965 and West Forevergreen Road. The latter is underway and closed to through traffic until the end of the year. If weather conditions are optimal, the road may reopen in the fall. Highway 965 will have two lanes open at all times during construction, which also has a similar timeline.
Caplinger also introduced Erika Harper, the new Telecommunications Promotion Producer. Some board members had yet to meet her. Harper attended a conference on PEG channel at the end of April in Wisconsin.
Caplinger reported that Bergus met with Heiar in order to teach him about blogging. Heiar made his first post about the West FGR and Hwy 965 projects at the end of April. He plans to continue updates throughout construction.
Finally, as Wagner is reaching the end of his scheduled term on the board, Caplinger thanked him for his time as a commissioner. Wagner may apply for a term renewal.
Approval of April 5, 2010 meeting minutes.
As different commissioners were in attendance in April than those in May, the board opted to postpone meeting minute approval until other commissioners were present.
The next meeting is scheduled for August 2010.
Cox moved, seconded by Wagner to adjourn the meeting at 6:12 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Cheryle Caplinger, Telecommunications Director
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
April 5th, 2010
Attendance: Glen Cox, Katie Colony, and Denise Schechinger
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger, Production Coordinator Nick Bergus, Promotion Producer Corinne Lemmage and Promotion Producer Erika Harper
Absent: Valerie Hoffman and Joseph Wagner
Cox called the meeting to order at 6:05 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Introduction of New Promotion Producer Erika Harper.
Erika Harper is replacing Corinne Lemmage as the Promotion Producer. Erika has volunteered for NLTV for a couple of years.
Cable Access Policy and Procedure Guideline.
The guidelines have been finalized and Caplinger wanted to know if the Commission was ready to approve the updated version. Cox suggested we put it off for a month due to the absence of Hoffman and Wagner. Will review in May’s meeting and see if all approve.
Mediacom Update.
Lee Grassley was absent from the meeting, but included in the packet are HD lineup channel changes.
South Slope Update.
None
Google Fiber Project Application and Status.
Bergus stated that about a month ago Google launched a project looking for cities with a population between 50,000 to 500,000 interested in participating in an experimental new and faster fiber network. Included in the packet was information about the project. Bergus stated that there has been no word from Google on who or how many will be chosen and we will have to wait and see. This is an exciting opportunity for North Liberty, Coralville and Iowa City. Cox wanted to know if South Slope and Mediacom could stack on to this network and Bergus said yes. Caplinger stated that we’re one out of over 1,100 communities to participate.
Commissioners’ comments.
Schechinger welcomed Erika to NLTV. Colony did the same and wished Lemmage well. Cox echoed the same.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger said there are lots of projects going on right now so everyone is busy with that. Caplinger wished Lemmage well. Bergus spoke about the North Liberty Breakfast Mixer that was coming up and this was their 4th one. City staff will be there and talk about some projects going on such as Highway 965. Caplinger stated that it was a successful video camp and they will be doing it again. Colony asked that people please volunteer through the North Liberty website for the Blues and BBQ.
Approval of March 1st, 2010 meeting minutes.
Colony moved to approve the minutes from March, Schechinger seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
The next meeting is scheduled for May 3rd, 2010.
Schechinger moved, seconded by Colony to adjourn the meeting at 6:15 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
March 1st, 2010
Attendance: Valerie Hoffman, Katie Colony, Joseph Wagner and Denise Schechinger
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger and Production Coordinator Nick Bergus
Absent: Glen Cox and Promotion Producer Corinne Lemmage
Hoffman called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Channel updates that were included in the packet.
South Slope Update.
Channel updates that were included in the packet.
Summary of Policy and Procedure Guideline Meeting of Ryan, Valerie and Cheryle
a. Cable Access Policy and Procedure Guideline Review (minus section 1, C)
Hoffman stated that in the meeting two weeks ago we discussed procedures and several issues mainly concerning section 1C and regarding posting agendas. At the end of the meeting Caplinger would make changes and suggestions regarding section 1C. Ryan, the City Administrator was on vacation when he got back he would review the changes and suggestions and make a decision. So we were going to wait for him to get back and talk about it next month.
Caplinger talked about the guidelines and procedures. She stated that they would no longer require the disclaimer from the public on submitted programs. Section C regarding the Government Access the meetings have been moved to add North Liberty Board of Adjustment and North Liberty Tree & Stormwater Advisory Board, the North Liberty Cemetary Board and the North Liberty Board of Appeals. In the same section regarding #5a, where it states “Public Meetings shall be shown until the next monthly meeting,” Wagner wanted to know what about meetings who only met quarterly? Maybe change the verbiage to “shall be shown until the next scheduled meeting or whichever happens first.” Caplinger agreed. Section #6 regarding the agendas for public meetings be posted 24 hours in advance on the North Liberty web site would not replace the agendas being posted on the bulletin board, but a courtesy. Wagner said that there was a state bill possibly being passed that would require a 24 hour notice for the public regarding the agenda and will need to keep an eye on that. Caplinger covered the changes in red regarding the procedures and guidelines included in the packet. Wagner wanted to know regarding the emergency message in Section VI. G. if there were any problems as to what constitutes an emergency. Caplinger stated that it was mostly snow emergencies, but no problems. NLTV doesn’t do the crawl at the bottom of the screen like for tornadoes warnings, that’s through Mediacom and South Slope. Caplinger may have additions to section IX regarding VHS, she wasn’t sure if we should remove the VHS info. Wagner said that if you don’t do it, probably should remove it from the department services. Hoffman agreed. Caplinger stated that VHS is not convenient. Colony suggested maybe at your own discretion then. Caplinger said that it had been 2 years since a request. All agreed to remove the VHS service. Caplinger talked about the $15 charge in section IX and if they should change the pricing to something along the lines of tiered pricing. Wagner said don’t do the tiered pricing leave the charges the same for any time. Colony asked about the public videos and the conversion service that was in that section and Caplinger said that it was being cut from NLTV’s services, but that a specialized conversion house would be able to do that for the public. Wagner asked about the archival of meetings and how long would they be kept for. Caplinger said that 1 DVD goes to the library and the other stays in-house for the public meetings. And they will be available on flash video online. Wagner wanted to know what the proper amount of time would be to preserve these and that we should be clear as to how long because we may not be able to reproduce something that happened or was taped many years ago. Caplinger said that we have it in a variety of forms and for archiving it we have multiple plans for storing it. Wagner said that we could state in the procedures that meetings would be stored and available until technology changes. Hoffman said until technology changes or allows for. Caplinger wanted to know if there were any other changes and nobody had any besides what was listed. Caplinger said we would wait to hear from Ryan and wanted to know if the commission would like to see the rewrite, and all said yes. Wagner wanted to know if the rewrite and suggestions needs to go before the council for approval and Caplinger wasn’t sure and we would find out next meeting.
Commissioners’ comments.
Colony was thankful for the guideline review. Wagner apologized for missing last month’s meeting.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger stated that Lemmage’s last day was April 16th. Regarding the video camp, it would show teenagers how to work the video equipment and would go from noon until 4. Planning for the Blues & BBQ was underway, this was Caplinger’s 3rd year. In addition to what was listed in the packet Caplinger said that project videos were ramping up in the community and that’s what they’re working on this year.
Approval of February 8, 2010 meeting minutes.
Colony moved to approve the minutes from February, Schechinger seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
The next meeting is scheduled for April 5, 2010.
Wagner moved, seconded by Hoffman to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Schechinger, Secretary
North Liberty Telecommunications Commission
Meeting Minutes
February 8, 2010
Attendance: Valerie Hoffman, Glen Cox, Katie Colony and Denise Schechinger
Also Present: Telecommunications Director Cheryl Caplinger and Promotion Producer Corinne Lemmage
Absent: Joseph Wagner and Production Coordinator Nick Bergus
Hoffman called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.
Comments from the public. None
Mediacom Update.
Caplinger stated that Lee Grassley was unable to attend because of the weather. Caplinger said that Mediacom and Sinclair came to an agreement for 2010 and was unsure how fees would be affected. And included in our packet was a copy of the franchise checks.
South Slope Update.
Also included in our packet was a copy of the franchise checks from South Slope.
Telecommunication Goal Discussion.
Caplinger talked about the goals included in our packet. She talked about the first video camp that would be for mostly teenagers to show them how NLTV works and shooting videos. This probably would replace the annual department open house. Caplinger said that they are also working on creating general program descriptions to say what the series is about, rather than the program itself. Hoffman asked about the budget and if they have what they needed. Caplinger said the plan is adequate. That pieces of equipment may not last as long, some of the equipment may last three to five years and tend to be ancient. The plan is to replace the equipment before it breaks and have serious problems. Hoffman asked about the website regarding the short-term goals. Caplinger stated the goal is just to maintain the website. There is still ongoing maintenance and that residents are still getting used to it. Hoffman asked if there were places for feedback. Caplinger stated that there is a comments page available and comments are left up on the page so residents can see previous problems and other comments. Colony stated that she wasn’t aware of the services regarding bringing in tapes and DVDs to the department and they can be transferred and she wanted to know if that was on the website. Caplinger answered that it is located under the description for the Telecommunications department. Schechinger asked for more information regarding the goal to increase community programming. Caplinger said they wanted to know what residents themselves wanted or wanted to see and that the Telecommunications department would help them if needed. Or maybe residents could tell their story through pictures. Currently they are meeting with the Stormwater Board and recycling to see what information they can provide to the public.
Cable Access Policy and Procedure Guideline Review.
Caplinger stated that the goal of the review was to help define them and what is our role to serve the residents of North Liberty – how does our department fit in. Bergus sent a message via text to Caplinger stating he believes the goal of the department and the city is to garner support and understanding for city direction by being as transparent as possible. That means explaining procedure and showing process. Being as transparent sends the message we trust our residents. They will in turn trust us. Caplinger wanted to know what we should cover. Whether it be meetings and work sessions that are not closed to the public. Hoffman asked if there were more meetings that were work sessions and open to the public that were not being taped. Hoffman thinks that if these meetings are open to the public they should be taped for either the NLTV or posted online. She suggested that regarding paragraph C #3 in the procedures that any meeting open to the public should be taped and broadcasted. Colony agreed that people do need that access. Cox also agreed that it should be open to the public. Schechinger agreed also. Caplinger said that we need to know how we fit in with notifications. The agenda for meetings are posted, but not required and minutes are required. Caplinger’s question was if the Telecommunication department was essential to the documentation, or for the record or just an extra information tool. Hoffman said that the Telecommunication department posts to the website about these meetings and we should suggest to council that it should be accessible for the public. Colony agreed. Caplinger said we could make a recommendation to City Council that it’s more than just a courtesy or if we don’t want to cover a meeting what’s the process. Does someone just say don’t cover it or should there be an appeal process or a form that needs to be filled out. Hoffman asked when would that be appropriate not to tape something. Caplinger said that agendas are submitted to the city administration before a meeting. Hoffman said that those should also be submitted to the Telecommunications department. Cox agrees that it should be posted. Caplinger also stated that we should define in our guidelines what gavel to gavel taping would be and thinks that the commissioners should speak to the city council. Caplinger stated another issue was if someone shows up to a meeting with a camera and NLTV wasn’t there does NLTV show it or if they get a tape what do they do with it? Hoffman said we should first see if we can change the procedure regarding all open meetings be taped then we can discuss that issue if needed. Colony said she thinks it would be ok to accept the tape for instance if there was bad weather and NLTV couldn’t make it to the meeting. Colony asked what other communities do. Caplinger said that others do city council meetings, but we do more and by doing more meetings that makes our department unique. Hoffman asked if we need to consider our resources. Caplinger said that we wouldn’t be affected if we do more. But where would the line be. The focus was to cover public meetings and that’s how we started, but we’ve grown. Hoffman stated that the motion could be to change paragraph C #3 under the guidelines to say “All meetings open to the public shall be recorded” instead of “The following public meetings must be recorded gavel to gavel.” Cox wanted to know if we should still tape after the gavel? Colony stated that it would be up to city council and the mayor to decide that and if there should be talk after the gavel. Hoffman wanted to know if there was a gavel at the work sessions. Caplinger said there is a call to order on these, but not sure about the gavel. Caplinger stated that under paragraph C #3 that the North Liberty School Board and the North Liberty Tree and Stormwater Advisory Board have been moved up to the list of meetings that are routinely cablecast. Hoffman moved to approve the motion that the verbiage be changed in the guidelines regarding paragraph C #3. Colony seconded and all agreed. Caplinger stated that the Board of Appeals was missing from the list in paragraph C, but they don’t meet regularly though. Also in that list we do receive the tapes for the Iowa City school district meetings. Caplinger also said that if we decide not to cover a meeting what would be the process. And she stated that all meetings are available online.
Commissioners’ comments.
Colony thanked the Telecommunications department for the goal setting. Cox said he echos that. Schechinger and Hoffman agreed.
Telecommunications staff report.
Caplinger said that the Super Bowl party was well attended. She counted at first 100 attendees and then the 1st quarter she counted 200 attendees. This was provided at no fees to the residents and she wanted to thank all of the business that helped with this. Caplinger said that City Hall’s new location will be for about 3 to 5 years. Caplinger also stated that she really wants residents to say what they want on NLTV.
Approval of January 4, 2010 meeting minutes.
Cox moved to approve the minutes from January, Hoffman seconded. Motion passed with all in favor.
The next meeting is scheduled for March 1st, 2010.
Colony moved, seconded by Cox to adjourn the meeting at 7:04 pm. Motion passed with all in favor.
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