In addition, under the franchise agreement, the Palo Alto City Manager must submit the request to the Palo Alto City Council with a recommendation for action within 15 days of receipt. A public hearing must be scheduled within 30 days, and the Palo Alto City Council must act within 60 days after the public hearing. Both Federal law and the franchise agreement allow for extensions if both parties agree to them. Typically, if a transfer request is granted, it is done so with conditions. In addition, the new provider is generally asked to assume responsibility for any areas of non-compliance with the current franchise agreement, both known and unknown.
Applicable law provides a basis for denial of a transfer request.
A franchising authority may deny the transfer request based on the buyer's unique financial, legal, and technical qualifications, and its ability to provide the required cable service.