Share opinions, stories and refreshments with seminar speakers and participants. Despite the Telecommunications Act of 1996, much of the underlying regulatory framework for cable television remains intact. In many markets, existing operators now face newly franchised cable competitors such as RCN, Wide Open West, Western Integrated Networks, and Knology. The last two years have seen enormous industry consolidation. Listen to experts explain regional consolidation, megadeals, FCC Form 394, municipal due diligence, and Consent to Transfer Agreements.
Many systems are simultaneously in the process of franchise renewal.
Understand the franchise renewal process as established by the 1984 and 1992 Cable Acts, especially the parameters for decisions to deny. Join our experts and argue the pros and cons of franchise fees, revocation procedures, and customer service standards and sanctions. He represents entities throughout the country on franchise renewals, transfers of ownership, competitive franchising, telecommunications planning, right of way issues, and First Amendment issues. Stephen A. Heins is director of marketing for Northnet in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and has been representing ISP's in the AOL-Time Warner merger. Richard Jennings is vice president and general manager for Time Warner.