HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/05/2007 1
B A K E R S F I E L D
Staff: Rhonda Smiley City Council Members:
Public Information Officer Sue Benham, Chair
David Couch
Jacquie Sullivan
Regular Meeting of the
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE
of the City Council -City of Bakersfield
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
1:00 p.m.
City Manager's Conference Room
City Hall, 1501 Truxtun Avenue -.Suite 201, Bakersfield, CA
AGENDA
1. ROLL CALL
2. ADOPT MAY 8, 2007 MINUTES
3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS
4. DEFERRED BUSINESS
A. Update regarding plastic bag issue.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Discussion and recommendation on a proposed ordinance regarding statewide
cable franchising
B. Discussion and recommendation on an amendment to the cabaret permit
ordinance
6. COMMITTEE COMMENTS
7. ADJOURNMENT
•
B A K E R S F I E L D
DRAFT
Sue Benham, Chair
Rhon Smiley, Public ormation Officer David Couch
For: Alan Tandy, City Manager Jacquie Sullivan
MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE MEETING
Tuesday, May 8, 2007 - 1:00 p.m.
City Manager's Conference Room -Suite 201
City Hall, 1501 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA
The meeting was called to order at 1:00:23 PM.
ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmember Sue Benham; Chair
Councilmembers David Couch and Jacquie Sullivan
Staff present: Alan Tandy, City Manager
Ginny Gennaro, City Attorney
Andrew Whang, Associate Attorney
John W. Stinson, Assistant City Manager
Rick Kirkwood, Management Assistant
Roberta Gafford, Assistant City Clerk
Rhonda Smiley, Public Information Officer
Stanley Grady, Development Services Director
Others present: Bob Rutledge, Citizen
Gretchen Wenner, Bakersfield Californian
Peter Samore, KUZZ News
2. ADOPT APRIL 10, 2007 MINUTES
Adopted as submitted.
3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS
None
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT Page 2
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE MEETING
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
4. NEW BUSINESS
a. Discussion regarding marketing annexation benefits
City Manager Tandy gave an overview of the research that was conducted with
Fontana, San Bernardino, and San Jose who have similar island issues and
how they have addressed them. Issues include zoning, taxes, code
enforcement, graffiti, police response, street sweeping, and septic/sewer
systems.
Committee member Couch suggested a study could be conducted by CSUB or
some other entity regarding Metro Bakersfield public services, regarding the
cost of those services, and how the community would benefit by more orderly
development. Committee Chair Benham stated that she would like to tie the
City's efforts to market annexation to the Council goals.
Committee member Sullivan would like research to continue on the annexation
issue. She stated that the public needs to be informed properly, maybe through
town halt meetings. Committee Chair Benham proposed that staff come up
with other methods to get the citizens informed. Committee member Couch
would like the public forms, which contain annexation information, to be
distributed to the City Council once again. These forms are available to the
public and may be in need of updating. He suggested that the citizens' tax bill
show a comparison with the savings due to the annexation, and how it affects
them financially. City Manager Tandy explained staff currently provides such
information; however, it is unique to each area annexed. Committee member
Couch stated that citizens should also be made aware of examples of recent
positive experiences.
b. Discussion regarding plastic shopping bags
Management Assistant Kirkwood gave an overview on the research that was
conducted, where other cities are initiating a ban of plastic bags in certain
stores. These cities have defined a store as a full-line, self-service
supermarket with gross annual sales of $2 million or more. They have also
looked at a law that was passed last September, enforcing stores 2,000 sq. ft.
or more with a pharmacy to implement a plastic bag "Take Back & Recycling"
program. This gives the consumers a place to bring their plastic bags, rather
than leaving them stored in their home. Some stores are also charging the
consumer per bag.
Committee member Couch questioned how much time is needed for a store to
phase out the use of plastic bags. Management Assistant Kirkwood explained
that once the ordinance was passed, San Francisco stores were given six
months and pharmacies were given one year to phase out plastic bags.
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE MEETING
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Page 3
Committee member Sullivan questioned the impact that plastic bags have on our
environment. Committee Chair Benham referred to the staff report that states for
the number of bags that were distributed in California last year, it took 450,000
gallons of oil to produce them. This contributes to the high oil dependency and
high oil prices. Plastic bags also produce an issue with littering, due to the fact that
they are so light and blow around so easily. Committee member Couch would like
more information on how far these cities went with this topic.
Citizen Bob Rutledge stated he is against plastic and paper bags. He feels that the
consumer should be allowed to take its own re-usable container to the store to
collect its items. Save You Foods, located on White Lane Avenue & South H
Street, charges 10 cents per bag. If you bring your own bag to Trader Joes, your
name will be placed in a drawing for a prize. There will be resistance from the
public, but something needs to be done about our environment. This is definitely a
start.
Committee member Sullivan noted that Mr. Rutledge has made many great points
about this issue and suggested that he come and make a Public Statement at a
City Council Meeting.
Committee member Couch stated that the County be contacted about any
proposed changes. The City and County should be on the same page regarding
this matter.
5. COMMITTEE COMMENTS
None.
6. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 1:41:31 PM.
cc: Honorable Mayor and City Council
S:\Council Committees\2007\07 LegislativeBLitigation\May 8\May 8 Minutes.doc
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B A K E R S F I E L D
CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
MEMORANDUM.
May 30, 2007
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Alan Tandy, City Manager
Rick Kirkwood, Management Assistant
Plastic Bag Ban
Councilmember Couch requested staff research what types of bags other cities are
allowing and the impact a ban of plastic bags would have on local retailers for the
Legislative and Litigation Committee's review.
Please note the following information corrects data presented in the April 24, 2007
memo to the Legislative and Litigation Committee .pertaining to the ban of plastic bags
in San Francisco. Data from the- City of San Francisco's Department of the
Environment shows nearly 180 million plastic bags are used .annually in San Francisco.
Jared Blumenfeld, City of San Francisco's Director of the Department of the
Environment, stated it takes 430,000 gallons of oil to manufacture 100 million bags.
Ross Mirkarimi, District 5 Supervisor, stated the ban would save 450,.000 gallons of oil a
year and remove the need to send 1,400 tons of debris now sent to the landfill annually.
The Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance amended the San Francisco Environment Code
to mandate stores and pharmacies defined in the ordinance to provide recyclable paper
bags, compostable plastic bags, and/or reusable bags as checkout bags to cus#omers.
The ordinance shall become operative to supermarkets six (6) months after its effective
date and to pharmacies one (1) year after its effective date.
A number of other agencies are watching the issue of plastic bag bans.
City of Santa Cruz: The City of Santa Cruz is also considering a ban of plastic bags,
but. is currently seeking buy-in from other municipalities. In order to increase a ban's
effectiveness, the City plans to initiate discussions with Scotts Valley, Capitola,
Watsonville, and the county to'gain support. According- to Chris Moran, City of Santa
Cruz Waste Reduction Manager, the City is encouraging the public to use cloth bags
Alan Tandy
May 30, 2007
Page 2
and to say no to plastic bags altogether through public outreach and education.
City of Santa Barbara: Santa Barbara's City Council is considering a .proposal from a
four-member group from Santa Barbara City College to ban plastic. bags and styrofoam
containers. Staff was not able to review this report, but a news article states the
proposal does not directly address the ramifications for local businesses but it hopes the
use of cloth bags' and biodegradable products will fill the void left by plastic.
Los Angeles County: Los Angeles County is considering several options: an outright
ban of plastic bags, encouraging customers to buy reusable bags, and/or encouraging
customers to return plastic bags to stores.
Boston, MA: A measure sponsored by Councilor Robert Consalvo to ban plastic bags
has gained the support of nine of the twelve councilors of the City of Boston. The
measure has been advanced to the Council's Committee on City and Neighborhood
Services.
At the state level in Massachusetts, Senator Brian A. Joyce plans to file a bill proposing
a statewide law that would charge customers atwo-cent ($0.02) per bag fee in 2008,
gradually increasing to fifteen cents ($0.15) per bag in 20'15.. The revenue generated by
.this program is proposed to go toward the state's recycling programs and toward
improving consumer awareness of environmental problems caused by plastic bags.
IKEA: As of March 15, 2007, all IKEA stores in the U.S. are charging five cents ($0.05)
per plastic bag used at the checkout counter and are encouraging customers to
purchase a `Big Blue Bag' for fifty-nine cents ($0.59) each. The blue bags are made of
amore durable and stronger plastic that can potentially replace hundreds of single-use
plastic bags if customers bring it along with them when they shop at IKEA. All proceeds
from this program will go to American Forests, anon-profit organization that plants trees
to restore forests and offset C02 emissions. This program was launched in IKEA stores
in the UK in late Spring 2006 and has resulted in a ninety-five percent (95%) reduction
in the use of plastic bags.
Whole Foods: Whole Foods offers customers five cents ($0.05) as an incentive each
time they bag their groceries in a reusable bag.
Staff conducted a survey of several stores located in Bakersfield to determine the
impact of a ban of plastic bags in the city. Below is a list of stores that were contacted
and the responses from their respective store managers.
Chris Middleton, Albertsons District Manager: Mr. Middleton provided information to
staff on seven stores located in Bakersfield. The average Albertsons has about 50,000
square feet of retail and storage space. Four of the seven stores have a pharmacy.
Based on thirteen weeks of plastic bags orders, Mr. Middleton estimated that the seven
Albertsons stores in Bakersfield distribute nearly 11 million plastic bags per year. Each
store may be able to comply with a ban of plastic bags within three to six months.
Alan Tandy
May 30, 2007
Page 3
Each store offers the following free options at the checkout counter: plastic, paper, qt.
liquor bag, and header bag (for frozen items). The stores sell a recyclable canvas bag
for $1.00. Promotions run throughout the year to encourage consumers to purchase the
recyclable canvas bags. The most recent promotion donated five cents ($0.05) to
California State Parks from each canvas bag purchased by a customer.
Mr. Middleton added that Albertsons' plastic bags are the smallest in the industry and
are collected and recycled at the store level in recycling bins made from recycled plastic
bags. Recycled plastic bags .are also used to produce the benches around the stores
and the ones donated to parks. Albertsons is considering new technology to produce
alternative bags from corn husks, potato peels, and .switchblade grass. This technology
may raise the cost to produce one bag from one cent ($0.01) for a plastic bag to four
cents ($0.04) for an alternative bag.
Food 4 Less -Store 365 - 1801 White Lane: This store has 74,000 square feet of
retail space and does not have a pharmacy. It offers paper or plastic bags to customers
for free, and would not comment on how many are distributed. This store accepts and
recycles plastic bags returned by customers.
Green Frog Market - 3711 Colombus St: This store has 60,000 square feet of retail
space and does not have a pharmacy. It offers paper or plastic bags for free or a
canvas bag for $6.99 to customers. A bin is available on-site for customers to return
plastic bags to be recycled. This store orders a new shipment of bags every two weeks
to one month depending on demand and claims it could comply with a ban of plastic
bags within six months.
Sav-A-Lot - 1505 White Lane: This store has 17,000 square feet of retail space.
Instead of offering paper bags to customers, it offers asingle-use plastic bag for three
cents ($0.03) each, a reusable bag (made of a thicker material) for ten cents ($0.10)
each, or a thermal bag for ninety-nine cents ($0.99) each. Since the customers pay for
each plastic bag used, the cost is not built in to the price of grocery items. This store
orders new shipments of bags weekly and claims it could comply with a ban of plastic
bags within six months but with some concerns. The store would need time to find
alternative bags and would incur costs of changing over to new bags. The store is also
concerned, if the current program is continued, customers may have to pay more for
alternative bags.
FoodMaxx - 4128 Chester Ave: This store has 49,000 square feet of retail space and
does not have a pharmacy. It offers paper or plastic bags for free, or a canvas bag for
ninety-eight cents ($0.98) each to customers. A bin. located on-site accepts plastic bags
returned by customers to be recycled. The store would not comment on the number of
bags distributed last year or how long it would take to comply with a ban of plastic bags.
Trader Joes; Trader Joes outlets do-not offer plastic bags unless specifically requested
by a customer. Reusable bags made of canvas for $2.99 -each and two versions of a
Alan Tandy
May 30, 2007
Page 4
microfiber bag ($0.99 and $1.99 each) are available for customers to purchase.
Thermal bags for $1.99 each may be purchased to carry frozen items. .Each outlet
posts a sign stating "Reduce, Recycle, Reuse" and offers a ticket for a monthly drawing
fora $25 gift card to customers that bring their own reusable bags (paper, canvas, or
microfiber). Approximately 600 tickets are given out to customers every two weeks for
this drawing. This store could comply immediately with a ban of plastic bags.
MAY 2 ~ 2007
May 23, 2007
TO: LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE
Sue Benham, Chair
David Couch
Jacquie Sullivan
FROM: JANICE SCANLAN, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
SUBJECT: PROPOSED ORDINANCE REGARDING STATEWIDE CABLE
FRANCHISING
In September 2006, the California Legislature adopted Assembly Bill 2987. In
essence, AB 2987 is a law which takes cable television franchising authority away from
local government and gives into the state.
Instead of applying with a local government, any company desiring to provide
cable television anywhere in the state of California files an application with .the PUC.
The applicant is required to let the local entity know about the franchise application if the
company plans to provide service in the local entity's jurisdiction.
Impact on the City
AB 2987 requires local entities to do and refrain from doing several things.
Below is a synopsis of various. sections of the new law and what it requires of or means
to the City.
Current Franchise Holders
Under AB 2987, the current franchise holders can either- continue under their
existing agreements and file for the state franchise when their local franchise expires, or
negotiate an early termination date with the local entity and apply for a state franchise.
The current franchises are set to expire in 2015.
Franchise Fees
Currently, under the Brighthouse and Cox/Cebridge franchise agreements, the
City receives 5% of the "total gross receipts." AB 2987 requires state franchise holders
to pay cities 5% of gross revenues. AB 2987 defines gross revenues slightly different
than the franchise agreement. It remains to be seen how that will impact the City.
Legislative and Litigation Committee
May 23, 2007
Page 2
PEG channels
The new law requires the franchise holder to provide PEG channels to the local
entities within three months of being requested to do so by the local entities. The
franchise holder only has to provide the equivalent of what the other local providers
supply, but the local entity can request up to three channels. If the local entity does not
broadcast an average of 8 hours a day, .however, the franchise holder can take the
channel back for its own programming. (Section 5870(a) and (e).)
Encroachment Permits
This law requires local entities to allow state franchise holders to install,
construct, and maintain a network within public rights-of-way under the same time,
place, and manner as the provisions governing telephone corporations under applicable
state and federal law. (Section 5885(a).) Moreover, local entities must have a process
where the franchise holder can appeal the denial of an encroachment permit to the City
Council. (Section 5885(c).) Currently, our municipal code has no appeal of a denial of
an encroachment permit.
Enforcement
Section 5900(c) requires the local entities to enforce the customer service and
protection standards set forth in the code and other sections of the law. Section
5900(d) requires the local entities to adopt by ordinance or resolution penalties for
failing to comply with the customer service and protection standards. The fines are set
forth in the statute and the local entities are locked in to those fines. In order to comply
with due process, the City would have to establish a hearing procedure before we could
start levying the penalties. Section 5900(g) requires the local entities to remit one-half
of all penalties collected to the Digital Divide Account. The Digital Divide Account
supposedly provides grants to non-profits to fund community technology programs.
State-wide Applicants
On March 9, 2007, the City received a notice from AT&T that it had applied for a
state-wide video franchise. On April. 5, 2007, we received a notice from the Public
Utilities Commission that the franchise had been granted. Pursuant to AB 2987, AT&T
must notify the City at least 10 drays and no more than 60 days before it begins
providing cable service in the City. Once it starts providing the service, it must pay the
franchise fees at the end of the quarter which is more than 180 days from the start of
service and quarterly thereafter. Section 5890(a) prohibits state-wide franchise holders
from discriminating against customers because of income, but only requires that, after 3
years, 25% of their customers be low-income (30% after five years) and they provide
free service to community centers..
S:\COiJNCIL,\CommitteeU.E('~ & I.TI~06-07\Sta~wideCableFranchisimg.doc
Legislative and Litigation Committee
May 23, 2007
Page 3
Sample Ordinances
I have searched several high-tech cities' codes to see if any of them have
adopted an ordinance pursuant to this law. I cannot find any. I contacted the Walnut
Creek City Attorney who is the expert on telecommunications and cable laws. He
actually wrote the book that most municipalities look at to determine what they can and
cannot do. His city has not adopted anything yet because they are in litigation with
AT&T regarding encroachment permits.
Attached is a draft ordinance which includes all of the requirements of AB 2987.
JS:Isc
Attachment
S:\COiJNCII,\CommitteeU.EG ~ LTI\06-07\StatewideCableFranchismg.doc
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5.48
OF THE BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO VIDEO SERVICE
PROVIDERS, AMENDING SECTION
12.16.060 OF THE BAKERSFIELD
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
CONSTRUCTION WORK IN STREETS AND
AMENDING SECTION 12.20.020 OF THE
BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO ENCROACHMENTS
WHEREAS, Section 116 of the City Charter sets forth that the City can grant
cable television franchises; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Charter, the City entered into franchise agreements
with two cable operators; and
WHEREAS, in 2006, the California Legislature enacted Assembly Bill 2987 (AB
2987) which eliminated local video service franchising authority and created a state-
wide video programming franchise process; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 allows current franchise holders to continue operating
under the local franchise until the franchise expires or is terminated; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to AB 2987, potential video service providers apply to the
California Public Utilities Commission for state-wide video service franchises and, if
granted, can provide video programming services anywhere in the State; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 requires local entities to enforce regulations regarding such
programming services and to adopt penalties for violations of the regulations; and
WHEREAS, additionally, AB 2987 requires local entities to have a mechanism in
place whereby video service providers can appeal the decision of the Public Works
Department to deny an encroachment permit or a permit allowing work in city streets or
rights-of-way; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 requires that such appeal be heard by the City Council.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Bakersfield as follows:
SECTION 1.
Chapter 5.48 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 5.48 C~zB' C TCI wic~n~i cQn~irwc~S VIDEO SERVICE PROVIDERS
5 48 010 Definitions
5.48.8-A 424 Grant of franchise to Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state of New
York.
5.48.828 4~4 Grant of franchise to Cebridge Acquisitions, L.P., a Delaware
limited partnership doing business in California as Cebridge Connections.
5_a8_~40 Regulations
__ 5 48 050 Notice of Violation
5 48 060 Penalties
5 48 010 Definitions.
(al "Cable Operator" means anv person group of persons or business entity providing
cable television service in the city limits pursuant to a franchise agreement with the itv
entered into prior to January 1.2007_
(bl "State Franchise Holder" means anv person group of persons or business entit
(c) "Video Service Provider" means both a Cable Operator and a State Franchise
Holder.
5.48.8-8 924 Grant of franchise to Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state of New
York.
Pursuant to Charter Section 116 the city of Bakersfield hereby grants to Time Warner
Entertainment-Advance/ Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state
of New York the nonexclusive right, privilege and franchise to lay and use lines, wires,
coaxial cable and appurtenances for transmitting, distributing and supplying radio and
television antenna service along, across and upon the public streets, ways, alleys and
places within the city of Bakersfield effective upon the execution of a franchise
agreement as approved by the city council of the city of Bakersfield and subject to all
the terms and conditions contained in such franchise agreement approved by the city
council of the city of Bakersfield.
5.48.828 Q$Q Grant of franchise to Cebridge Acquisitions, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership doing business in California as Cebridge Connections.
Pursuant to Charter Section 116, the city of Bakersfield grants to Cebridge Acquisitions,
L.P., a Delaware limited partnership doing business in California as Cebridge
Connections the nonexclusive right, privilege and franchise to lay and use lines, wires,
coaxial cable and appurtenances for transmitting, distributing and supplying radio and
television antenna service along, across and upon the public streets, ways, alleys and
places within the city of Bakersfield
effective upon the execution of an amendment to a
franchise agreement as approved by the city council of the city of Bakersfield and
subject to all the terms and conditions contained in such franchise agreement approved
by the city council of the city of Bakersfield.
All Vi deo Servi ce Providers must c omply with the provisions o f Section 53055. 53 055.1.
~~~~ ~ 2 and 53088 2 of the C aliforni a Government Cod e Sectio n 637 5 of the
Calif ornia Pen al Code and 47 U S C 5 51 et sea All Vide o Service Provider s must
comp ly with c ustomer service st andard s pertainina to the provision of video s ervice
estab lished by federal law or rea ulation or adopted by sub seauent e nactment or the
Calif ornia Leai slature Additionall y Cabl e Operators must comply with ail terms oT tneir
franc hise aaree ments until such a areeme nts are terminated o r expires.
5_a~_o~n Notice of Violation.
If the Citv determines that a Video Service Provider is in violation of any laws set forth in
Section 5 48 040 or in the case of a Cable Operator the terms of the trancnise
aareement Citv shall notify the Video Service Provider of the violation(sl in writina. 1 ne
Video Service Provider shall have thirty (301 days to correct the violation. it the violation
is not corrected a fine or other penalty shall be imposed pursuant to Section 5.48.060.
A violation of any law or reaulation referenced in Section 5 48 040 or any other law cited
in any amendment to the Diaital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2006
~~°lifornia Public Utilities Code section 5800 et seal shall result in a fine of $500.00 per
day for each day the violation continues not to exceed $1 500 00 A second violation
urrina and not corrected in a 12-month period shall result_in a fine of $1.000.00_,per
da~for each day the violation continues. not to exceed $3.000.00. A third or
subseauent violation in that same 12-month period shall result in a fine of $2.500.00 per
Slav for each day the violation continues not to exceed $7 500.00. City shall notify the
Video Service Provider of the fine(sl in writina_ and the Video Service Provider shall pay
such fine(sl to the Citv within ten (101 days of the mailina of the notice by City or file a
written reauest for an appeal of the fine with the Citv Clerk. Upon timely receipt of a
_ __
written reauest for an appeal the Citv Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearina with
the Citv Manaaer or desianee within sixty (601 days of receipt of reauest for appeal.
After the time for appeal has run or if the Citv Manaaer or desianee upholds of the fine.
--
the Citv may take any action allowed by law to recover an unpaid fine. Additionally.
failure to pay the fine shall be reported to the Public Utilities Commission. Nothina in
this section precludes the City from terminatina a franchise aareement with a Cable
Opera+nr tnr nraacninn tnP tarm~ of the franchise aareement. One half_of any fine
collected by City shall be submitted to the Diaital Divide Account established in Section
280 5 of the Public Utilities Code.
SECTION 2
Section 12.16.060C of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
12.16.060 Action on applications for permits to excavate.
C. If the application is denied, the department shall advise the applicant in
writing of the basis for denial. The applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the mailina of
such denial by City to appeal The written reauest for appeal must be received by the
('itv Clerk within such time aeriod Uoon timely receiot of a written reauest for an
^^^^^! +he City Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearina with the Citv Manaaer or
desianee within sixty (601 davs of receipt of the reauest. If the applicant is a Video
Service Provider as defined in Section 5 48 010 of this Code pursuant to Section 5885
of the Public Utilities Code the applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the mailina of
such denial by City to appeal The written reauest for appeal must be received by the
Citv_Clerk within such time period Upon timely receipt of a written reauest for an
anneal. the Citv Council shall schedule the matter for hearina at the next available Citv
Council meeting_
SECTION 3.
Section 12.20.0206 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
12.20.020 Permit requirements-Revocation.
B. Any person, firm or corporation desiring to place, erect or maintain any
such encroachment as defined in Section 12.20.010 shall make application for a permit
at the office of the city engineer.. Such application shall contain the name and address of
the applicant, a description of the proposed encroachment and the proposed location
thereof, the period of time for which such encroachment is proposed to be maintained,
and such other information as may be required by the city engineer. Such application
shall further contain an agreement on the part of the applicant that if such application is
granted, the applicant will indemnify and save and hold harmless the city, its agents,
officers and employees against and from all damages, judgments, claims, demands,
expenses, costs and expenditures, and against all loss or liability which the city or such
officers, agents or employees may suffer, or which may be recovered from or obtainable
against the city or such officers, agents or employees, legally caused by, growing out of,
or in any way connected with, the placing, erection or maintenance of such
encroachment, and upon the expiration of such permit or the revocation thereof, the
applicant will, at his own cost and expense, remove the same from the public property
or right-of-way where the same is located and restore such public property or right-of-
way to the condition as nearly as that in which it was before the placing, erection,
maintenance or existence of such encroachment. Such application shall also contain an
agreement on the part of the applicant to keep all liability insurance required by the city
manager in full force and effect for however long the encroachment remains. Upon the
receipt of such application, the city engineer shall make an investigation to determine if
the maintenance of such encroachment will substantially interfere with the use of the
public property, right-of-way or other public place where the same is proposed to be
placed, erected or maintained, and whether the placing, erection or maintenance of
such encroachment will constitute a hazard to persons using such public property, right-
of-way or other public place. Upon the completion of such investigation, the city
engineer shall, at his discretion, either grant or deny the applicant a permit to place,
erect and/or maintain such encroachment. Such permit, if granted, may be granted for a
definite time or for annual renewal, and the city engineer may impose such conditions to
the granting of the same as in his discretion will best serve the public interest. In any
event, a permit granted by the city engineer pursuant to this section is revocable at any
time by the city engineer. If the application is denied the department shall advise the
applicant in writing of the basis for denial. The applicant shall have ten (101 davs from
the mailina of such denial by City to appeal. The written reauest for appeal must be
received by the Citv Clerk within such time period. Upon timely receipt of a written
gq„PSt for an appeal the Citv Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearing with the Citv
Manager or designee within sixty (601 davs of receipt of the reauest. If the applicant is
a Video Service Provider as defined in Section 5 48 010 of this Code. pursuant to
Section 5885 of the Public Utilities Code the applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the
mailina of such denial by City to appeal The written reauest for appeal must be
received by the Citv Clerk within such time period. Upon timely receipt of a written
request for an appeal the Citv Council shall schedule the matter for hearing at the next
available Citv Council meeting..
Upon the revocation of any such permit, the city engineer shall give notice in the form
and manner specified in Section 12.2:0.030 to the applicant for such permit or to the
person maintaining such encroachment. It is unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to
place, erect or maintain or to permit the placing, erection, maintenance or existence of
an encroachment upon, over or under any street, avenue, lane, alley, sidewalk, court,
place, public way, property or right-af-way after his permit has expired, after his permit
has been revoked and the time specified in the notice from the city engineer for removal
of the same has expired, or after required insurance has expired, lapsed, been reduced
or revoked. An encroachment permit may be granted in the Central Business Zone and
Commercial Center Zone for restaurants or other establishments serving food or
beverages in the encroachment area; however, all the requirements of Sections
12.20.020(c) and (D) shall be followed in addition to all other requirements of this
chapter. Fees or charges for the issuance of any permit under this chapter may be
imposed by resolution or ordinance of the city council.
SECTION 4.
This Ordinance shall be posted in accordance with the provisions of the
Bakersfield Municipal Code and shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after
the date of its passage.
-----00000-----
1 HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance was passed and adopted by
the Council of the City of Bakersfield at a regular meeting thereof held on
by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER CARSON, BENHAM, WEIR, COUCH, HANSON, SULLIVAN, SCRIVNER
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER
CITY CLERK and EX OFFICIO of the
Council of the City of Bakersfield
APPROVED:
By:
HARVEY L. HALL, Mayor
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
VIRGINIA GENNARO
City Attorney
By:
JANICE SCANLAN
Assistant City Attorney
S:\COUNCIL\Ords\06-07 Ords\5.48.statevideofranchiseamend.doc
~,
MAY 2 ~ 2007
MEMORANDUM
CITY ATTORNEY
May 23, 2007
TO: LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE
Sue Benham, Chair
David Couch
Jacquie Sullivan
FROM: JANICE SCANLAN, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
SUBJECT: AMENDMENT TO CABARET PERMIT ORDINANCE
The City's current cabaret ordinance (Chapter 5.14) authorizes the police chief to
immediately revoke a cabaret permit if he determines:
A. That misrepresentatians were .made on the application; or
B. That the owner or a manager has in the past three years been
convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions or
duties of the business for which application is made, unless he has
obtained a certificate of rehabilitation; or
C. That the owner or a manager has in the past three years done
any act involving dishonesty,. fraud or deceit with the intent to substantially
benefit himself or another, or substantially injure another; or
D. That any of the terms or conditions of said permit have been
violated or that the business has been operated in violation of a local,
state or federal law; or
E. That the operation of the cabaret is interfering with the peace
and quiet of the neighborhood.
As written, all the chief can do is revoke a permit. He has no authority to
suspend permits.
When permits are revoked, the permit holder must immediately cease providing
live entertainment or music at the facility. After a permit has been, revoked, businesses
cannot reapply for cabaret permits for three years. Thus, any time a cabaret permit is
revoked by the chief, the permit holder requests an appeal to the city manager. The city
manager has the authority to reduce the revocation to a suspension.
This amendment will authorize the chief to suspend cabaret permits, as well as
revoke them, and, thus, allowing him to suspend the permit when the violation does not
merit revocation.
JS:Isc
S:\COUNCIL\Committee\LEG & Ln106-07\cabaretamendment.doc
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS
5.14.050 and 5.14.060 OF THE
BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO CABARETS
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Bakersfield as follows:
SECTION 1.
Section 5.14.050 is hereby amended to read as follows:
5.14.050 Suspension or Revocation.
Any permit issued pursuant to this chapter shall be immediately suspended or
revoked by the chief of police or his designee whenever he finds:
A. That misrepresentations were made on the application; or
B. That the owner or a manager has in the past three years been convicted
of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions or duties of the business
for which application is made, unless he has obtained a certificate of rehabilitation; or
C. That the owner or a manager has in the past three years done any act
involving dishonesty, fraud or deceit with the intent to substantially benefit himself or
another, or substantially injure another; or
D. That any of the terms or conditions of said permit have been violated or that
the business has been operated in violation of a local, state or federal law; or
E. That the operation of the cabaret is interfering with the peace and quiet of the
neighborhood.
SECTION 2.
Section 5.14.060 is hereby amended to read as follows:
5.14.060 Appeal.
A. Should any applicant be dissatisfied with the decision of the chief of police or
his designee not to grant a permit or for the suspension or revocation of a permit, then
said applicant may, no later than ten days after notice of such decision is deposited in
the United States mail, addressed to the applicant or permittee at the address provided
on the application, make written objection to the city manager or his designee setting
the grounds for dissatisfaction whereupon the city manager shall hear said objections at
a hearing no later than three weeks following the filing of the objection with the city
clerk. The applicant shall be given written notice no less than three days prior to said
hearing. The city manager or his designee may, upon said hearing, sustain, suspend or
overrule the decision of the chief of police or his designee, which decision shall be final
and conclusive.
B. Pending the hearing before the city manager, the decision of the chief of police or
his designee shall remain in full force and effect and any reversal thereof by the city
manager shall not be retroactive but shall take effect as of the date of the manager's
decision.
SECTION 3.
This Ordinance shall be posted in accordance with the provisions of the
Bakersfield Municipal Code and shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after
the date of its passage.
-----00000-----
HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance was passed and adopted by
the Council of the City of Bakersfield at a regular meeting thereof held on
by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER CARSON, BENHAM, WEIR, COUCH, HANSON, SULLIVAN, SCRIVNER
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER __ ___
CITY CLERK and EX OFFICIO of the
Council of the City of Bakersfield
APPROVED:
By:
HARVEY L. HALL, Mayor
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
VIRGINIA GENNARO
City Attorney
By:
JANICE SCANLAN
Assistant City Attorney
S:\COUNCIL\Ords\06-07 Ords\5.14cabaretamendment.doc
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
ATTENDANCE LIST
Name
^/1 o/tGYol ~M i~ Organization Contact: Phone/ E-mail
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We'll still get 5% of the "gross revenue". ~ suppose a ~~~ ~~ G. ~ ,~~~~ -_ ..
how we will be financially impacti dtow the state to hhave thei r curhent contract with lus
seems to think they will not app y
nullified, but just let it expire (2015?).
However, one of the major reasons local governments strongly opposed the measure, is
that even though we'll no longer have oversight or authority over cable franchising in our
jurisdiction, we will be required to provide encroachment permits and wlica t wouldabe
mechanism for appealttached ordinance drafted by Janice randnthe suggestion it be
denied. Hence, the a
discussed in committee.
Hopefully, this give you a simplified overview of where we are and what we need to took
at. Let me know if you have further questions or want me to directly pursue further with
Janice.
rks
~k i
.. A
~ : ~
IO
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
MEMORANDUM
April 23, 2007
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
ALAN TANDY, CITY MANAGER
JANICE SCANLAN, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
RAMIFICATIONS OF A.B. 2987 (STATEWIDE CABLE FRANCHISING)
In September 2006, the California Legislature adopted Assembly Bill 2987. In
essence, AB 2987 is a law which takes cable television franchising authority away from
local government and gives it to the state. All it really does is provide a mechanism for
telephone companies to become cable television providers without having to go through
the negotiations with local entities that other cable providers had to endure.
Instead of applying with a local government, any company desiring to provide
cable television anywhere in the state of California files an application with the PUC.
The applicant is required to let the local entity know about the franchise application if the
company plans to provide service in the local entity's jurisdiction.
Impact on the City
AB 2987 requires local entities to do and refrain from doing several things.
Below is a synopsis of various sections of the new law and what it requires of or means
to the City.
Current Franchise Holders
Under AB 2987, the current franchise holders can either continue under their
existing agreements and file for the state franchise when their local franchise expires, or
negotiate an early termination date with the local entity and apply for a state franchise.
The current franchises are set to expire in 2015.
Franchise Fees
Currently, under the Brighthouse and Cox/Cebridge franchise agreements, the
City receives 5% of the "total gross receipts". "Total gross receipts° are defined in the
agreement as: any and all compensation and other consideration received directly by
the Grantee from the operation of its CATV service in the City of Bakersfield, including
revenues from monthly subscriber rates, pay television revenues, revenues received
from any access channels (except as noted herein), data and impulse signals, revenues
i41an Tandy, City Manager
A.B.2987
April 23, 2007
Page 2
received from sale of advertising and installation, connections, and reinstatement
charges, and any other or additional available services provided by cable. Total gross
receipts shall not include (1) uncollectible amounts; (2) refunds or rebates made by
Grantee; (3) sales, ad valorem or other types of "add-on" taxes, levies or fees calculated
by gross receipts or gross revenues which Grantee might have to pay or collect for
Federal, State or local government (exclusive of franchise fees provided for herein); (4)
non-operating revenues such as interest income or gain from sale of an asset; and (5)
revenues received from the public access channels when such revenues represent only
a reimbursement of the Grantee's actual costs.
The new law requires state franchise holders to pay local entities 5% of "gross
revenues". "Gross revenues" are defined as:
(d) For purposes of this section, the term "gross revenues" means all
revenue actually received by the holder of a state franchise, as
determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles,
that is derived from the operation of the holder's network to provide cable
or video service within the jurisdiction of the local entity, including all of the
following:
(1) All charges billed to subscribers for any and all cable service or video
service provided by the holder of a state franchise, including all revenue
related to programming provided to the subscriber, equipment rentals, late
fees, and insufficient fund fees:
(2) Franchise fees imposed on the holder of a state franchise by this
section that are passed through to, and paid by, the subscribers.
(3) Compensation received by the holder of a state franchise that is
derived from the operation of the holder's network to provide cable service
or video service with respect to commissions that are paid to the holder of
a state franchise as compensation for promotion or exhibition of any
products or services on .the holder's network, such as a "home shopping"
or similar channel, subject to paragraph (4) of subdivision (e).
(4) A pro rata portion of all revenue derived by the holder of a state
franchise or its affiliates pursuant to compensation arrangements for
advertising derived from the operation of the holder's network to provide
video service within the jurisdiction of the local entity, subject to paragraph
(1) of subdivision (e). The allocation shall be based on the number of
subscribers in the local entity divided by the total number of subscribers in
relation to the relevant regional or national compensation arrangement.
S:\Manager\MEMOS\06-07W62987.doc
Alan Tandy, City Manager
A.B.2987
April 23, 2007
Page 3
(e) For purposes of this section, the term "gross revenue" set forth in
subdivision. (d) does not include any of the following:
(1) Amounts not actually received, even if billed, such as bad debt;
refunds, rebates, or discounts to subscribers or other third parties; or
revenue imputed from the provision of cable services or video services for
free or at reduced rates to any person as .required or allowed by law,
including, but not limited to, the provision of these services to public
institutions, public schools, governmental agencies, or employees except
that forgone revenue chosen not to be received in exchange for trades,
barters, services, or other items of value shall be included in gross
revenue.
(2) Revenues received by any affiliate or any other person in exchange
for supplying goods or services used by the holder of a state franchise to
provide cable services. or video services. However, revenue received by
an affiliate of the holder from the affiliate's provision of cable or video
service shall be included in gross revenue as follows:
(A) To the extent that treating the revenue as revenue of the affiliate,
instead of revenue of the holder, would have the effect of evading the
payment of fees that would otherwise be paid to the local entity.
(B) The revenue is not otherwise subject to fees to be paid to the local
entity.
(3) Revenue derived from services classified as noncable services
or nonvideo services under federal law, including, but not limited to,
revenue derived from telecommunications services and information
services, other than cable services or video services, and any other
revenues attributed by the holder of a state franchise to noncable
services or nonvideo services in accordance with Federal
Communications Commission rules, regulations, standards, or
orders.
(4) Revenue paid by subscribers to "home shopping" or similar networks
directly from the sale of merchandise through any home shopping channel
offered as part of the cable services or video services. However,
commissions or other compensation paid to the holder of a state franchise
by "home shopping" or similar networks for the promotion or exhibition
products or services shall be included in gross revenue.
S:VolanagerUNEMOS\06-07\AB2987.doc
Alan Tandy, City Manager
A.B.2987
April 23, 2007
Page 4
(5) Revenue from the sale of cable services or video services for resale in
which the reseller is required to collect a fee similar'to the franchise fee
from the reseller's customers.
(6) Amounts billed to, and collected from, subscribers to recover any tax,
fee, or surcharge imposed by any governmental entity on the holder of a
state franchise, including, but not limited to, sales and use taxes, gross
receipts taxes, excise taxes, utility users taxes, public service taxes,
communication taxes, and any other fee not imposed by this section.
(7) Revenue from the sale of capital assets or surplus equipment not
used by the purchaser to receive cable services or video services from the
seller of those assets or surplus equipment.
(8) Revenue from directory or Internet advertising revenue, including, but
not limited to, yellow pages, white pages, banner advertisement, and
electronic publishing.
(9) Revenue received as reimbursement by programmers of specific,
identifiable marketing costs incurred by the holder of a state franchise for
the introduction of new programming.
(10) Security deposits received from subscribers, excluding security
deposits applied to the outstanding balance of a subscriber's account and
thereby taken into revenue.
(f) For the purposes of this section, in the case of a video service
that may be bundled or integrated functionally with other services,
capabilities, or applications, the state franchise fee shall be applied
only to the gross revenue, as defined in subdivision (d), attributable
to video service. Where the holder of a state franchise or any affiliate
bundles, integrates, ties, or combines video services with nonvideo
services creating a bundled package, so that subscribers pay a
single fee for more than one class of service or receive a discount on
video services, gross revenues shall be determined based on an
equal allocation of the package discount, that is, the total price of the
individual classes of service at advertised rates compared to the
package price, among all classes of service comprising the package.
The fact that the holder of a state franchise offers a bundled package
shall not be deemed a promotional activity. ff the holder of a state
franchise does not offer any component of the bundled package
separately, the holder of a state franchise shall. declare a stated retail
S:\Manager\MEMOS\06A7\AB2987.dce
Alan Tandy, City. Manager
A. B. 2987
April 23, 2007
Page 5
value for each component based on reasonable comparable prices
for the product or service for the purpose of determining franchise
fees based on the package discount described above.
(g) For the purposes of determining gross revenue under this division, a
video service provider shall use the same method of determining revenues
under generally accepted accounting principals as that which the video
service provider uses in determining revenues for the purpose of reporting
to national and state regulatory agencies. Cal Pub Util Code § 5860
From my reading of the definition, our current franchise holders would be paying
the City a percentage of the amount of money they receive for digital intemet service
and/or voice-over IP (phone) or other noncable services. Whereas, a new, state-wide
provider would not have to pay the City a percentage of that money. It is entirely
possible that a new provider can charge very little for the cable television service and
charge a large amount for the high-speed intemet and the City would not be entitled to
the 5% of the charges for the intemet service.
PEG channels
The new law requires the franchise holder to provide PEG channels to the local
entities within three months of being requested to do so by the local entities. The
franchise holder only has to provide the equivalent of what the other local providers
supply, but the local entity can request up to three channels. If the local entity does not
broadcast an average of 8 hours a day, however, the franchise holder can take the
channel back for its own programming. (Section. 5870(a) and (e).)
Encroachment Permits
This law requires local entities to allow state franchise holders to install,
construct, and maintain a network within public rights-of--way under the same time,
place, and manner as the provisions governing telephone corporations under applicable
state and federal law. (Section 5885(a)). Moreover, local entities must have a process
where the franchise holder can appeal the denial of an encroachment permit to the City
Council. (Section 5885(c)). Currently, our municipal code has no appeal of a denial of
an encroachment permit, much. less an appeal to the City Council.
Enforcement
Section 5900(c) requires the local entities to enforce the customer service and
protection standards set forth in the code and other sections of the law. Section
5900(d) requires the local entities to adopt by ordinance or resolution penalties for
failing to comply with the customer service and protection standards. The fines are set
S:\ManagerUvl EMOS\06-07 W B2987.doc
i41an Tandy, City Manager
A.B.2987
April 23, 2007
Page 6
forth in the statute and the local entities are locked in to those fines. In order to comply
with due process, the City would have to establish a hearing procedure before we could
start levying the penalties. Section 5900(g) requires the local entities to remit one-half
of all penalties collected to the Digital Divide Account. The Digital Divide Account
supposedly provides grants to non-profits to fund community technology programs.
State-wide Applicants
On March 9, 2007, the City received a notice from AT&T that it had applied for a
state-wide video franchise. On April 5, 2007, we received a notice from the Public
Utilities Commission that the franchise had been granted. Pursuant to AB 2987, AT&T
must notify the City at least 10 days and no more than 60 days before it begins
providing cable service in the City. Once it starts providing the service, it must pay the
franchise fees at the end of the quarter which is more than 180 days from the start of
service and quarterly thereafter. Section 5890(a) prohibits state-wide franchise holders
from discriminating against customers because of income, but only requires that, after 3
years, 25% of their customers be low-income (30% after five years) and they provide
free service to community centers.
Sample Ordinances
I have searched several high-tech cities' codes to see if any of them have
adopted an ordinance pursuant to this law. I cannot find any. I contacted the Walnut
Creek .City Attorney who is the expert on telecommunications and cable laws. He
actually wrote the book that most municipalities look at to determine what they can and
cannot do. His city has not adopted anything yet because they are in litigation with
AT&T regarding encroachment permits.
Attached is a draft ordinance which includes all of the- requirements of AB 2987.
Attachment
S:\Manageruvi EMOS\06-07\AB2987.dce
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5.48
OF THE BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO VIDEO SERVICE
PROVIDERS, AMENDING SECTION
12.16.060 OF THE BAKERSFIELD
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
CONSTRUCTION WORK IN STREETS AND
AMENDING SECTION 12.20.020 OF THE
BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO ENCROACHMENTS
WHEREAS, Section 116 of the City Charter sets forth that the City can grant
cable television franchises; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Charter, the City entered into franchise agreements
with two cable operators; and
WHEREAS, in 2006, the California Legislature enacted Assembly Bill 2987 (AB
2987) which eliminated local video service franchising authority and created a state-
wide video programming franchise process; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 allows current franchise holders to continue operating
under the local franchise until the franchise expires or is terminated; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to AB 2987, potential video service providers apply to the
California Public Utilities Commission for state-wide video service franchises and, if
granted, can provide video programming services anywhere in the State; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 requires local entities to enforce regulations regarding such
programming services and to adopt penalties for violations of the regulations; and
WHEREAS, additionally, AB 2.987 requires local entities to have a mechanism in
place whereby video service providers can appeal the decision of the Public Works
Department to deny an encroachment permit or a permit allowing work in city streets or
rights-of-way; and
WHEREAS, AB 2987 requires that such appeal be heard by the City Council.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Bakersfield as follows:
SECTION 1.
Chapter 5.48 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 5.48 VIDEO SERVICE PROVIDERS
5.48.010 Definitions
5.48.A4A Q24 Grant of franchise to Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state of New
York.
5.48.A2A ~ Grant of franchise to Cebridge Acquisitions, L.P., a Delaware
limited partnership doing business in California as Cebridge Connections.
5 48.040 Regulations
5 48 050 Notice of Violation
5 48 060 Penalties
5 48 010 Definitions.
(a) "Cable Operator" means anv aerson arouo of oersons or business entity grovidina
cable television service in the city limits pursuant to a franchise aareement with the Citv
entered into prior to January 1.2007.
(bl "State Franchise Holder" means anv person arouo of persons or business entity
grovidina video proarammina service pursuant to a franchise aranted by the State of
California throuah the Public Utilities Commission after January 1.2007.
(cl "Video Service Provider" means both a Cable Operator and a State Franchise
Holder.
5.48.8-A 92Q Grant of franchise to Time Warner Entertainment-
Advance/Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state of New
York.
Pursuant to Charter Section 116 the city of Bakersfield hereby grants to Time Warner
Entertainment-Advance/ Newhouse, a general partnership under the laws of the state
of New York the nonexclusive right, privilege and franchise to lay and use lines, wires,
coaxial cable and appurtenances for transmitting, distributing and supplying radio and
television antenna service along, across and upon the public streets, ways, alleys and
places within the city of Bakersfield effective upon the execution of a franchise
agreement as approved by the city council of the city of Bakersfield and subject to all
the terms and conditions contained in such franchise agreement approved by the city
council of the city of Bakersfield.
5.48.828 9,~Q Grant of franchise to Cebridge Acquisitions, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership doing business in California as Cebridge Connections.
Pursuant to Charter Section 116, the city of Bakersfield grants to Cebridge Acquisitions,
L.P., a Delaware limited partnership doing business in California as Cebridge
Connections the nonexclusive right, privilege and franchise to lay and use lines, wires,
coaxial cable and appurtenances for transmitting, distributing and supplying radio and
television antenna service along, across and upon the public streets, ways, alleys and
places within the city of Bakersfield effective upon the execution of an amendment to a
franchise agreement as approved by the city council of the city of Bakersfield and
subject to all the terms and conditions contained in such franchise agreement approved
by the city council of the city of Bakersfield.
5.48.040 Regulations.
All Video Service Providers must comply with the provisions of Section 53.055. 53055.1.
53055 2 and 53088 2 of the California Government Code Section 637.5 of the
California Penal Code and 47 U S C 551 et sea All Vide_ o Service Providers must
comply with customer service standards pertainina to the provision of video service
P~tablished by federal law or reaulation or adopted by subseauent enactment of the
-_
alifornia Leaislature Additionallv Cable Operators must comply with all terms of their
franchise aareements until such aareements are terminated or expires.
5.48.050 Notice of Violation.
If the Citv determines that a Video Service Provider is in violation of anv laws set forth in
Section 5.48.040 or in the case of a Cable Operator. the terms of the franchise
aareement Citv shall notifv the Video Service Provider of the violation(s) in writina. The
Video Service Provider shall have thirty (301 davs to correct the violation. If the violation
is not corrected a fine or other penalty shall be imposed pursuant to Section 5.48.060.
A violation of anv law or regulation referenced in Section 5.48.040 or anv other law cited
in anv amendment to the Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2006
__
~('alifornia Public Utilities Code section 5800 et seal shall result in a fine of $500.00 per
day for each day the violation continues. not to exceed $1.500.00. A second violation
occurring and not corrected in a 12-month period shall result in a fine of $1.000.00 per
day for each day the violation continues. not to exceed $3.000.00. A third or
subseauent violation in that same 12-month period shall result in a fine of $2.500.00 per
__-
dav for each day the violation continues. not to exceed $7.500.00. City shall notifv the
Video Service Provider of the fine(s) in writina and the Video Service Provider shall pay
such fine(s) to the Citv within ten (101 davs of the mailing of the notice by City or file a
written reauest for an appeal of the fine with the Citv Clerk. Upon timely receipt of a
written reauest for an appeal. the Citv Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearing with
he Citv Manager or desianee within sixty (601 davs of receipt of reauest for appeal.
After the time for appeal has run or if the Citv Manaaer or desianee upholds of the fine.
the Citv may take anv action allowed by law to recover an unpaid fine. Additionallv.
failure to pay the fine shall be reported to the Public Utilities Commission. Nothing in
his section precludes the City from terminating a franchise aareement with a Cable
Q~ rator for breaching the terms of the franchise aareement. One half of anv fine
collected by City shall be submitted to the Diaital Divide Account established in Section
~Rn 5 of the Public Utilities Code.
SECTION 2
Section 12.16.060C of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
12.16.060 Action on applications for permits to excavate.
C. If the application is denied, the department shall advise the applicant in
writing of the basis for denial. The applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the mailina of
such denial by City to aaaeal The written reauest for aaaeal must be received by the
itv Clerk within such time period Uaon timely receiat of a written reauest for an
a:.~2a1 the Citv Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearina with the City Manaaer or
desianee within sixty (601 davs of receiat of the reauest. If the aaalicant is a Video
~~rvice Provider as defined in Section 5 48 010 of this Code pursuant to Section 5885
of the Public Utilities Code the applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the mailina of
such denial by City to aaaeal The written reauest for aaaeal must be received by the
City Clerk within such time aeriod Uaon timely receiat of a written reauest for an
aaaeal. the City C~~~ncil shall schedule the matter for hearina at the next avanaaie City
Council meetina.
SECTION 3.
Section 12.20.0206 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
12.20.020 Permit requirements-Revocation.
B. Any person, firm or corporation desiring to place, erect or maintain any
such encroachment as defined in Section 12.20.010 shall make application for a permit
at the office of the city engineer. Such application shall contain the name and address of
the applicant, a description of the proposed encroachment and the proposed location
thereof, the period of time for which such encroachment is proposed to be maintained,
and such other information as may be required by the city engineer. Such application
shall further contain an agreement on the part of the applicant that if such application is
granted, the applicant will indemnify and save and hold harmless the city, its agents,
officers and employees against and from all damages, judgments, claims, demands,
expenses, costs and expenditures, and against all loss or liability which the city or such
officers, agents or employees may suffer, or which may be recovered from or obtainable
against the city or such officers, agents or employees, legally caused by, growing out of,
or in any way connected with, the placing, erection or maintenance of such
encroachment, and upon the expiration of such permit or the revocation thereof, the
applicant will, at his own cost and expense, remove the same from the public property
or right-of-way where the same is located and restore such public property or right-of-
way to the condition as nearly as that in which it was before the placing, erection,
maintenance or existence of such encroachment. Such application shall also contain an
agreement on the part of the applicant to keep all liability insurance required by the city
manager in full force and effect for however long the encroachment remains. Upon the
receipt of such application, the city engineer shall make an investigation to determine if
the maintenance of such encroachment will substantially interfere with the use of the
public property, right-of-way or other public place where the same is proposed to be
placed, erected or maintained, and whether the placing, erection or maintenance of
such encroachment will constitute a hazard to persons using such public property, right-
of-way or other public place. Upon the completion of such investigation, the city
engineer shall, at his discretion, either grant or deny the applicant a permit to place,
erect and/or maintain such encroachment. Such permit, if granted, may be granted for a
definite time or for annual renewal, and the city engineer may impose such conditions to
the granting of the same as in his discretion will best serve the public interest. In any
event, a permit granted by the city engineer pursuant to this section is revocable at any
time by the city engineer. If the application is denied the department shall advise the
applicant in writina of the basis for denial. The applicant shall have ten (101 davs from
the mailina of such denial by City to appeal. The written reauest for appeal must be
r ~Pived by the Citv Clerk within such time period Uaon timely receipt of a written
roc -~PSt for an appeal the Citv Clerk shall schedule the matter for hearina with the Citv
Manaaer or desianee within sixty (601 davs of receipt of the reauest. If the applicant is
a Video Service Provider as defined in Section 5 48 010 of this Code. pursuant to
Section 5885 of the Public Utilities Code the applicant shall have ten (101 davs from the
mailina of such denial by City to appeal The written reauest for appeal must be
received by the Citv Clerk within such time period. Upon timely receipt of a written
r auest for an appeal the Citv Council shall schedule the matter for hearina at the nex
available Citv Council meetina.
Upon the revocation of any such permit, the city engineer shall give notice in the form
and manner specified in Section 12.2.0.030 to the applicant for such permit or to the
person maintaining such encroachment. It is unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to
place, erect or maintain or to permit the placing, erection, maintenance or existence of
an encroachment upon, over or under any street, avenue, lane, alley, sidewalk, court,
place, public way, property or right-of-way after his permit has expired, after his permit
has been revoked and the time specified in the notice from the city engineer for removal
of the same has expired, or after required insurance has expired, lapsed, been reduced
or revoked. An encroachment permit may be granted in the Central Business Zone and
Commercial Center Zone for restaurants or other establishments serving food or
beverages in the encroachment area; however, all the requirements of Sections
12.20.020(c) and (D) shall be followed in addition to all other requirements of this
chapter. Fees or charges for the issuance of any permit under this chapter may be
imposed by resolution or ordinance of the city council.
SECTION 4.
This Ordinance shall be posted in accordance with the provisions of the
Bakersfield Municipal Code and shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after
the date of its passage.
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HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance was passed and adopted by
the Council of the City of Bakersfield at a regular meeting thereof held on
by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER
APPROVED:
By:
HARVEY L. HALL, Mayor
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
VIRGINIA GENNARO
City Attorney
By:
JANICE SCANLAN
Assistant City Attorney
CARSON, BENHAM, WEIR, COUCH, HANSON, SULLIVAN, SCRIVNER
CITY CLERK and EX OFFICIO of the
Council of the City of Bakersfield
S:\COUNCIL\Ords\06-07 Ords\5.48.statevideofranchiseamend.doc