A. 
Defined terms. The various terms and phrases used in this chapter are defined as follows:
(For the purposes of this chapter, the following words, terms, phrases, and their derivations have the meanings given herein. When not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future tense, and words in the singular number include the plural number.)
Administrative Officer.
The City Administrator or the City Administrator's designee.
Agency Subscriber.
A subscriber who receives a Service in a government or public agency, school, or non-profit corporation facility.
Affiliated Person (or Affiliates).
Each Person who falls into one or more of the following categories:
a. 
Each Person having, directly or indirectly, a Controlling Interest in Grantee;
b. 
Each Person in which Grantee has, directly or indirectly, a Controlling Interest;
c. 
Each officer, director, general partner, limited partner holding an interest of five percent or more, joint venturer, or joint venture partner in Grantee's Cable System in the City; and
d. 
Each Person, directly or indirectly, controlling, controlled by, or under common Control with Grantee; provided that Affiliated Person excludes the Grantor, any limited partner holding an interest of less than five percent in the Grantee, or any creditor of Grantee, solely by virtue of its status as a creditor, and which is not otherwise an Affiliated Person by reason of owning a Controlling Interest in, being owned by, or being under common ownership, common management, or common Control with Grantee.
Basic Service, Basic Cable Service or Basic Service Tier.
The lowest Service Tier which includes the retransmission of local television Broadcast Signals and Public, Government, and Education Access Channels.
Broadcast Signal.
A signal transmitted over the air to a geographically dispersed public audience and received by a Cable System.
1984 Cable Act.
The Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984.
1992 Cable Act.
The Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992.
Cable Act.
The 1984 Cable Act as amended by the 1992 Cable Act and by the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Cable Operator.
Any person or group of persons who either: a. provides cable service over a cable system and directly or through one or more affiliates owns a controlling interest in such cable system, or b. otherwise controls or is responsible for, through any arrangement, the management and operation of such a cable system.
Cable Service.
The one-way transmission to Subscribers of: a. video programming, or b. other programming service; or, c. subscriber interaction in conjunction with the one-way transmission of video programming or other programming services which is required for the selection of or use of such video programming or other services.
Cable System or Cable Communications System or System.
A facility, consisting of a set of closed transmission paths and associated signal generation, reception, and control equipment that is designed to provide cable service which includes video programming and which is provided to multiple subscribers within a community, but such term does not include the following: a. a facility that serves only to retransmit the television signals of one or more television broadcast stations; b. a facility that serves only subscribers in one or more multiple unit dwellings under common ownership, control, or management, unless such facility or facilities uses any public right-of-way; c. a facility of a common carrier which is subject, in whole or in part, to the provisions of title II of the Cable Act, except that such facility shall be considered a cable system [other than for purposes of Section 621(c)] to the extent such facility is used in the transmission of video programming directly to subscribers; or d. any facilities of any electric utility used solely for operating its electric utility system.
Cablecast Signal.
A non-broadcast signal that originates within the facilities of the Cable System, whether from a live or recorded source.
City.
The City of Santa Barbara.
Closed Circuit or Institutional Service.
Services provided to institutional users on an individual or collective basis. The information contained in such a service may or may not be simultaneously available to other system Subscribers or users.
Channel.
A frequency band capable of carrying a standard video signal or some combination of video signals, or a frequency band assigned to carry a non-standard video signal or some combination of such video signals.
Commercial Subscriber.
A Subscriber who receives a Cable Service in a place other than a residential dwelling unit.
Complaint.
Any situation involving a dispute or in which a Subscriber notifies Grantee of an out-age or degradation in picture quality or billing concern which is not corrected during the initial telephone or service call.
Control or Controlling Interest.
Actual working control in whatever manner exercised, including, without limitation, working control through ownership, management, debt instruments, or negative control, as the case may be, of the Cable System or the Grantee. A rebuttable presumption of the existence of Control or a Controlling Interest shall arise from the beneficial ownership, directly or indirectly, by any Person or group of Persons acting in concert (other than underwriters during the period in which they are offering securities to the public) of 20% or more of any Person (which Person or group of Persons is referred to as "Controlling Person"), or being a party to a management contract.
Converter or Terminal.
A device which converts signals from one frequency to another or otherwise processes signals for use by Subscribers excluding, however, cable-ready television sets and VCRs which are not offered for sale or lease by the cable operator.
Drop.
The cable and related equipment connecting the Cable System's plant to equipment at the Subscriber's premises.
Education Channel.
Any channel where non-profit educational institutions are the primary designated programmers.
FCC.
The Federal Communications Commission or its designated representatives.
Franchise.
A written legal undertaking or action of the Grantor which authorizes a specific Person to use the Grantor's streets and public ways for the purpose of installing, operating and maintaining a Cable Communications System to provide Cable Service.
Government Channel.
Any channel where local government agencies are the primary designated programmers, and programming is non-commercial informational programming regarding government activities and programs.
Grantee.
The Person to which a Franchise is granted for the construction, operation, maintenance, and re-construction of a Cable System and the lawful successors, transferees, or assignees of that Person.
Grantor.
The City, acting by and through its elected governing body, or such representative as the governing body may designate to act on cable matters in its behalf.
Gross Annual Revenue or Gross Annual Receipts or Gross Receipts.
All revenue, as determined in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, which is received, directly or indirectly, by Grantee and by each Affiliated Person from or in connection with the distribution of any Cable Service, and any other Service which may, under now or then applicable federal law, be included in the Cable Act definition for the purpose of calculating and collecting the maximum allowable franchise fee for operation of the System, whether or not authorized by any Franchise, including, without limitation, leased or access channel revenues received, directly or indirectly, from or in connection with the distribution of any Cable Service. It is intended that all revenue collected by the Grantee, and by each Affiliated Person, from the provision of Cable Service over the System, whether or not authorized by the Franchise, be included in this definition.
Gross Annual Revenue specifically includes, but is not limited to, the following:
a.
Any revenue received, as reasonably determined from time to time by the Grantor, through any means which is intended to have the effect of avoiding the payment of compensation that would otherwise be paid to the Grantor for the Franchise granted. Gross Annual Revenue also includes any bad debts recovered. Gross Annual Revenue also includes all advertising revenue which is received directly or indirectly by Grantee, any Affiliated Person, or any other Person from or in connection with the distribution of any Service over the System or the provision of any Service-related activity in connection with the System, including all revenue paid to, directly or indirectly, home shopping channels and networks.
b.
The fair market value of any nonmonetary (i.e., barter) transactions between Grantee and any Person, other than an Affiliated Person, but not less than the customary prices paid in connection with equivalent transactions;
c.
The fair market value of any nonmonetary (i.e., barter) transaction between Grantee and any Affiliated Persons but not less than the customary prices paid in connection with equivalent transactions conducted with Persons who are not Affiliated Persons; and
Gross Annual Revenue does not include the following:
a.
The revenue of any Person to the extent that said revenue is also included in the Gross Annual Revenue of Grantee;
b.
Utility user and sales taxes imposed by law on Subscribers which Grantee is obligated to collect; and
c.
Amounts which must be excluded pursuant to applicable law.
Headend.
That central portion of the System where signals are introduced into and received from the balance of the System.
Institutional Network or Institutional System.
A System or portion of a System intended primarily to service nonresidential Subscribers.
Lease Channel.
Any channel where someone other than Grantor or Grantee is sold the rights to air programming.
Local Origination Channel.
Any channel where the Grantee is the primary designated programmer.
Monitoring or Tapping.
Observing or receiving a signal, where the observer is neither the sending nor receiving party and is not authorized by the sending or receiving party to observe said signal, whether the signal is observed or received by visual, electronic, or any other means whatsoever.
Non-Broadcast Signal.
A signal that is not involved in over-the-air broadcast for general public reception.
Pay Cable, Pay Service, Premium-Service or Pay Television.
Signals for which there is a per channel or per use fee or charge to users over and above the charge for Basic Service.
PEG Channel.
A Public, Education or Government channel.
Person.
A corporation, partnership, proprietor-ship, individual, or organization authorized to do business in the State of California.
Plant.
The transmitting medium and related equipment which transmits signals between the Headend and Subscribers.
Pole Attachment Agreement or Attachment Agreement.
An agreement with the Grantor, any other governmental entity, or any public utility relating to the Grantee's use of any utility poles, ducts, or conduits.
Program or Programming.
The information content of a signal, whether that content is intended to be pictures and sound, or sound only.
Programmer.
Any Person who provides program material or information for transmission by means of a System.
Property of Grantee.
All property owned or leased within the Franchise Service Area by Grantee in the conduct of its System business under a Franchise.
Public Channel, Access Channel, Community Service Channel or Community Channel.
A channel for which members of the public, or any community organization, may provide non-commercial, non-advertiser supported programming provided, however, sponsorship identification fees may be paid and accepted to further community programming.
Resident.
A person residing in the Franchise Service Area, or as otherwise defined by applicable law.
Residential Dwelling Unit or Dwelling Unit.
A home, mobile home, condominium, apartment, cooperative unit, and any other individual dwelling.
Residential Subscriber.
A Subscriber who receives a Service in a Dwelling Unit.
Service.
A service or type of benefit provided by Grantee, or any group of related benefits obtained or made available to any person, involving the use of a signal transmitted via a Cable Communications System, whether the signal and its content constitute the entire service or comprise only a part of a service which involves other elements of any number or kind.
Service Area or Franchise Service Area.
The entirety of the City of Santa Barbara.
Service Interruption.
The loss of picture or sound on one or more cable channels.
Service Tier or Tier.
As defined in Section 602.17 of the Cable Act, as enacted as of the date of the adoption of this chapter or hereinafter amended.
Streets and Public Ways.
The surface of and the space above and below, any public street, sidewalk, alley, wharf, dock, or other public way or right-of-way of any type whatsoever.
Subscriber.
A Person electing to subscribe to, for any purpose, a Service provided by Grantee by means of or in connection with its Cable System.
Telecommunications Act.
The Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Unit.
A discrete place where Services are used, such as a residence, apartment, office, store, etc.
User(s).
A Person who either receives Services from a Cable System or who accomplishes any purposes by, in part or in whole, transmitting or receiving information via a Cable System.
B. 
Undefined terms; usage. Words, terms, or phrases not defined herein shall first have the meaning as defined in the Cable Act, and then the special meanings or connotations used in any industry, business, trade, or profession where they commonly carry such special meanings. If those special meanings are not common, they will have the standard definitions as set forth in commonly used and accepted dictionaries of the English language.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Authority to grant franchises. Pursuant to the authority of City Charter Article XIV, the Grantor may grant a Franchise to provide Cable Service to any Person who offers to provide a System pursuant to this chapter.
B. 
Form. A Franchise may, at Grantor's sole option, take the form of an ordinance, license, permit, contract, resolution, or any other form elected by Grantor.
C. 
Grants not required. Consistent with applicable state and federal law, no provision of this chapter requires the granting of a Franchise when, in the opinion of the Grantor, it is in the public interest not to do so.
D. 
Purpose. The purpose of a Franchise is to identify and authorize the operation of a Cable Communications System by a specific Grantee, and to identify and specify those terms, conditions, definitions, itemizations, specifications and other particulars of the agreement between the Grantor and Grantee. In so doing, a Franchise may clarify, extend, and interpret the provisions of this chapter. Where a Franchise and this chapter conflict, both shall be liberally interpreted to achieve a common meaning or requirement. In the event this is not possible within reasonable limits, the Franchise (together with the provisions of the authorizing ordinance) shall prevail. Unless otherwise specifically stated, no provision of this chapter shall be deemed to be contractually incorporated into any Franchise granted hereunder.
E. 
Compliance with law. Neither this chapter nor a Franchise granted under it relieves Grantee of any requirement of Grantor, or of any ordinance, rule, regulation, or specification of Grantor now or hereafter in effect pursuant to Grantor's police power, including, but not limited to, the obtaining of a business license, and the payment of all permit and inspection fees required from time to time by the Grantor.
F. 
Franchise non-exclusive. Grantor may, at its option, grant one or more Franchises to construct, operate, maintain, and reconstruct a System. Said Franchises shall constitute both a privilege and an obligation to provide the System and Services required by this chapter and the Franchise.
G. 
Duration. The term of any Franchise, and all rights, privileges, obligations and restrictions pertaining thereto, shall be specified in the Franchise. The effective date of any Franchise shall be as specified in the Franchise.
H. 
Use of public streets and rights-of-way. For the purposes of operating and maintaining a System in the franchised Service Area, a Grantee may place and maintain within the public rights-of-way such property and equipment as are necessary and appurtenant to the operation of the Cable Communications System. Prior to construction or alteration of the Plant in public rights of way, the Grantee shall apply for, pay all applicable fees, and receive all necessary permits.
I. 
Use of other utilities. Any Person who provides a System or Services as defined herein shall be deemed a Grantee and must obtain a Franchise. If such Grantee uses distribution channels furnished by any telephone company, other public utility, or any other entity which are functionally equivalent to those used by a Cable Operator, said Grantee shall be required to comply with all of the provisions of this chapter.
J. 
Assignment, transfer or sale of franchise. There shall be no assignment of a Franchise, in whole or in part, or any change in Control of the Grantee without the prior express written approval of the Grantor. Any assignment or transfer, or any change in Control, without the Grantor's prior written consent shall constitute a default which will cause a Franchise to terminate.
1. 
Prior Written Request. At least 120 days before a proposed assignment or change in Control of the Franchise is scheduled to become effective, the Grantee shall request in writing the Grantor's written consent. The Grantee shall submit to the Grantor a written application in a form specified by relevant federal or state law, or, in the absence of such specification, in a format specified by the Grantor together with:
a. 
Any other information or documentation required by the State or Federal government (including the FCC);
b. 
The declaration required by paragraph 5 of this subsection;
c. 
Unedited and unredacted copies of the sale or transfer documents with all schedules and exhibits thereto; and
d. 
Information regarding the financial ability and stability of the proposed assignee with respect to being able to perform all obligations of the existing Franchise.
2. 
Standard of Reasonableness. The Grantor shall not unreasonably withhold its consent to such an assignment or change in control. However, in evaluating the request for assignment, transfer, sale, or change in Control, the Grantor may, in its sole discretion and among other things, undertake a technical inspection and audit of the System to determine whether the System complies with all applicable technical and safety codes, and with this chapter and the Franchise.
3. 
Lack of Compliance. If the Grantor determines (as a result of the technical inspection and audit) that the System does not comply with federal, state, or local standards, then the Grantee shall be provided with an opportunity to correct or cure the non-compliance. In the alternative, the Grantor may work with both the current and proposed Grantee to cure the non-compliance.
4. 
Review of Operational Reports. If the Grantee has not previously supplied the Grantor with certain operational reports and data, then the Grantee shall submit to the Grantor the following reports at the time it submits the report required pursuant to paragraph 1 of this subsection:
a. 
FCC Form 395-A relating to equal employment opportunity and fair contracting policies or a form specified by relevant federal or state law or, in the absence of such specification, in a format specified by the Grantor;
b. 
Periodic revenue statements in the format referenced in this chapter; and
c. 
Subscriber logs in the format referenced in Section 5.62.040.E of this chapter.
5. 
Written Acknowledgment of Franchise. Before an assignment or change in Control is approved by the Grantor, the proposed assignee, transferee, or buyer shall execute a declaration acknowledging that it has read, understood, and will abide by both this chapter and the applicable Franchise.
6. 
Assumption of Franchise Obligations. In the event of any approved assignment or change in Control, the assignee or transferee shall assume all obligations and liabilities of the former Grantee relating to the Franchise unless specifically relieved by the Grantor at the time the assignment or change in Control is approved.
7. 
Disapproval. If the Grantor disapproves a request for consent, then the Grantee may submit another request or an amended request for consent. In such a situation, the 120 day time-frame begins to run anew.
8. 
Reimbursement of Processing and Review Costs for Transfers and Renewals. To the extent not prohibited by applicable law, Grantee shall reimburse Grantor for Grantor's reasonable processing and review expenses in connection with a transfer of the Franchise or a change in Control of the Franchise, including without limitation, costs of administrative review, financial, legal and technical evaluation of the proposed transferee, costs of consultants (including technical and legal experts), notice and publication costs, and document preparation expenses. In addition, prior to any transfer or change in Control, Grantee shall reimburse Grantor for all of Grantor's expenses in connection with evaluating or negotiating a renewal of Grantee's franchise, whether or not said renewal was ever finalized or granted. Grantor may send Grantee an itemized description of all such charges, and Grantee shall pay such amount within 20 days after the receipt of such description. Any such reimbursement shall not be charged against any franchise fee due to the Grantor during the term of the franchise.
9. 
Violation. If the Grantee violates any provision of subsection J of this section, the Franchise shall automatically terminate. The procedures contained in Section 5.62.100 shall not apply to an unlawful transfer or change in Control, and the Franchise shall automatically terminate upon the occurrence of such a violation.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Reservation of rights. Grantor reserves every right it may have in relation to its power of eminent domain over Grantee's Franchise and property.
B. 
Non-waiver. Neither the granting of any Franchise, nor any provisions of this chapter, shall constitute or be construed as a waiver or bar to the exercise of any governmental right or power by Grantor.
C. 
Delegation of powers. Any right or power in, or duty retained by or imposed upon Grantor, or any commission, officer, employee, department, or board of Grantor, may be delegated by Grantor to any officer, employee, department or board of Grantor, or to such other person or entity as Grantor may designate to act on its behalf.
D. 
Right to inspect construction. The Grantor shall have the right to inspect all construction, installation, or other physical work performed by Grantee in connection with the Franchise, and to make such tests as may be necessary to ensure compliance with the terms of this chapter and the Franchise, so long as said inspection and testing does not unreasonably interfere with Grantee's operations.
E. 
Right to require removal of property. Consistent with applicable law, at the expiration of the term or any renewal term or extension for which the Franchise is granted, or upon its lawful revocation, expiration, or termination, the Grantor shall have the right to require the Grantee to remove, at Grantee's expense, all portions of its System and any other property from all streets and public rights-of-way within the Franchise service area within a reasonable period of time.
F. 
Right of intervention. The Grantor shall have the right of intervention in any suit, proceeding or other judicial or administrative proceeding in which the Grantor has any material interest, and to which the Grantee is party.
G. 
Place of inspection. The Grantor shall have the right to inspect Grantee's local premises, and to request copies of all relevant information that is reasonably necessary for the exercise of Grantor's regulatory authority, upon reasonable notice at any time during normal business hours. Any Grantee records kept at another place shall, within 10 days of Grantor's request, be made available at Grantee's local premises within the County of Santa Barbara for Grantor's inspection and copying. All reports and records required pursuant to this chapter shall be furnished at the sole expense of Grantee, except as otherwise provided in this chapter or the Franchise.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Discriminatory practices prohibited. The Grantee shall not deny Cable Service or otherwise discriminate against Subscribers or others on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, pregnancy and childbirth, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status (as those terms are defined by the California Fair Employment and Housing Act — Government Code Section 1 2900-12996), or based on political affiliation (as defined by California Labor Code section 1102), unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification or as otherwise provided in Sections 12900 - 12996 of the California Government Code. The Grantee shall strictly adhere to the equal employment opportunity requirements of federal, state, or local governments and shall comply with all applicable laws and executive and administrative orders relating to non-discrimination.
B. 
Tapping and monitoring. The Grantee shall not tap or monitor, or permit any other person controlled by Grantee to tap or monitor, any cable, line, signal input device or subscriber outlet or receiver, for any purpose whatsoever without the express written consent of the Subscriber or a court order there-for; provided, however, that the Grantee may monitor customer service calls for quality control purposes and may conduct system-wide or individually addressed "sweeps" for the purpose of verifying system integrity, controlling return path transmission, or checking for unauthorized connections to the Cable Television System, service levels, or billing-for-pay services.
C. 
Data collection.
1. 
Confidentiality of Customer Preferences. Except for its own use, or in connection with the provision of Cable Services or for release of data to the Grantor, the Grantee shall not permit its system to be used for data collection purposes, nor shall it otherwise collect data which would reveal the commercial product or other preferences or opinions of an individual Subscriber, members of their families, or their guests, licensees or employees, unless the Grantee shall have received the prior written consent of such Subscriber.
2. 
Release of Aggregate Data Only. In any event, the Grantee shall not disclose or permit the release or sale of data on individual Subscribers or groups thereof, but may disclose or permit the release or sale of aggregate data only.
D. 
Disclosure of subscriber preferences.
1. 
Grantee shall not disclose individual Subscriber preferences, viewing habits, beliefs, philosophy, creeds, or religious beliefs to any third person, firm, agency, governmental unit, or investigating agency without court authority or the prior written consent of the Subscriber.
2. 
Such written consent, if given, shall be limited to a period of time not to exceed one year, or a term agreed upon by the Grantee and the Subscriber.
3. 
The Grantee shall not condition the delivery or receipt of Cable Services to any Subscriber on any such consent.
4. 
A Subscriber may revoke, without penalty or cost, any consent previously given by delivering to the Grantee in writing a statement of the Subscriber's intent to so revoke.
E. 
Disclosure of subscriber lists. The Grantee shall not disclose, or sell, or permit the disclosure or sale of its subscriber list without the prior written consent of each Subscriber on such list; however, Grantee may use its subscriber list as necessary for the construction, marketing, and maintenance of the Grantee's services and facilities authorized by a Franchise, and the billing of Subscribers for Cable Services and Grantor may use Grantee's subscriber list for the purpose of communication with Subscribers in connection with matters relating to the operation, management, and maintenance of the Cable System.
F. 
Other persons affected. The prohibitions contained in subsections A through E, inclusive, of this section apply to Grantee, as well as to all of the following:
1. 
Officers, directors, employees, agents and General and Limited Partners of the Grantee;
2. 
Any person or combination of persons owning, holding, or controlling 20% or more of any corporate stock or other ownership interests in the Grantee;
3. 
Any affiliated or subsidiary entity owned or controlled by Grantee, or in which any officer, director, stockholder, general, or limited partner, or person or group of persons owning, holding or controlling any ownership interest in the Grantee, shall own, hold or control 20% or more of any corporate stock or other ownership interests; and
4. 
Any person, firm, or corporation acting or serving in the capacity of a holding or controlling company of the Grantee.
G. 
Subscriber notice of rights. Grantee shall provide to all Subscribers, at the time of initial connection and annually thereafter, a notice describing, in understandable language, the Subscriber's rights and obligations that are generally provided under the Franchise and federal law, including a description of how to contact the Grantee and, if necessary, the Grantor, in the event of an unresolved Subscriber complaint.
H. 
Notice to new subscribers. Before providing Cable Service to any Subscriber, Grantee shall provide a written notice to the Subscriber containing substantially the following information: Subscriber understands that Company uses public rights-of-way and other facilities of the City of Santa Barbara in providing service and that this continued use cannot be guaranteed. Subscriber agrees not to make any claims against the City of Santa Barbara or its officers or employees in the event that such use is denied for any reason, and Company is unable, in its discretion, to provide service over alternate routes.
I. 
Complaint advice. Grantor may require Grantee to advise its Subscribers that complaints of poor service should be made to Grantor's representative if such complaints are not resolved by Grantee to the satisfaction of a Subscriber.
(Ord. 5004, 1997; Ord. 5872, 2019)
A. 
Payments to the grantor.
1. 
Franchise Fee. As compensation for any Franchise to be granted, and in consideration of permission to use the Grantor's streets and public rights-of-way for the construction, operation, maintenance, and reconstruction of a System, the Grantee shall pay to the Grantor the amounts specified in the Franchise.
2. 
Monthly Payments and Reports. Payments due the Grantor shall be computed on a monthly basis and shall be paid to Grantor within 15 days after the close of each month. The payment shall be accompanied by a report showing the basis for the computation and such other relevant facts as may be required by the Grantor to determine the accuracy of the payment. A final annual reconciliation, and payment if any, shall be delivered to Grantor by Grantee within 90 days after the end of each calendar year.
3. 
Late Payments and Reports. If any franchise payment or recomputed amount is not made on or before the dates specified above in paragraph 2, Grantee shall pay as additional compensation the greater of the following:
a. 
An interest charge, computed from the applicable due date, at an annual rate equal to the prevailing commercial prime interest rate in effect upon the due date, plus one percent.
b. 
A sum of money equal to 10% of the overdue amount for each month, or part thereof, of delay, which sum shall also bear interest from the due date at an annual rate equal to the prevailing commercial prime interest rate in effect upon the due date, plus one percent.
4. 
Late Penalty. In addition to any late payment made pursuant to paragraph 3 above, if a payment is late by 60 days or more, Grantee shall pay a sum of money equal to five percent of the amount due in order to defray additional expenses and costs incurred by Grantor as a result of such delinquent payment.
5. 
No Release. No acceptance of any payment shall be construed as a release of, or an accord, or satisfaction of, any claim that the Grantor might have for further or additional sums payable under the terms of this chapter, or for any other performance by Grantee of an obligation hereunder.
6. 
Not Taxes, Fees, or Assessments. Payments of compensation made by a Grantee to the Grantor pursuant to the provisions of this chapter are in addition to, and exclusive of, any and all authorized taxes, business license fees, and other fees, levies, or assessments now in effect, or subsequently adopted.
B. 
Security fund.
1. 
Cash Security. Within 30 days after the effective date of the Franchise, the Grantee shall deposit into a bank account established by the Grantee, for the benefit of Grantor, and shall maintain on deposit through the term of the Franchise, a sum specified in the Franchise as security for the faithful performance by Grantee of all of the provisions of the Franchise, and compliance with this chapter and with all orders, permits and directions of the Grantor, or any designated representative of the Grantor having jurisdiction over Grantee's acts or defaults under the Franchise or this chapter, and as security for the payment by the Grantee of any claims, fees, liens, or taxes due the Grantor which arise by reason of the construction, operation or maintenance of the System pursuant to the Franchise or this chapter, and to satisfy any actual or liquidated damages arising out of a Franchise breach.
2. 
Use of Security Deposit. Except as otherwise provided in the Franchise, if the Grantee fails, after 20 days written notice, to pay to the Grantor any fees that are due and unpaid, or fails to repay within such 20 days, any damages, costs or expenses which the Grantor is compelled to pay by reason of any act or default of the Grantee in connection with its Franchise; or if Grantee fails to comply with any provision of the Franchise or this chapter and the Grantor determines that such failure was without just cause and, in a manner consistent with the procedures specified in Section 5.62.130 of this chapter, Grantor reasonably determines it can be remedied by a withdrawal from the security fund or is nevertheless subject to liquidated damages, then, in any such event, the Grantor may immediately withdraw the amount thereof from the security fund, with interest and any liquidated damages. Upon such withdrawal, the Grantor shall notify the Grantee of the amount and the date of withdrawal.
3. 
Restoration of Security. Within 30 days after notice to Grantee that any amount has been withdrawn by Grantor from the security fund, the Grantee shall deposit a sum of money sufficient to restore such security fund to the original amount.
4. 
Release of Security. Grantee shall be entitled to the return of the security fund, or portion thereof, with interest, that remains on deposit at the expiration or termination of the Franchise, once all amounts due to the Grantor have been paid. Grantee shall also retain its right to challenge any withdrawal from such security fund.
5. 
Rights not Exclusive. The rights reserved to the Grantor with respect to the security fund are in addition to all other rights of the Grantor, and no action, proceeding or exercise of a right with respect to such security fund shall affect any other right the Grantor may have.
C. 
Faithful performance bond. Within 30 days after the effective date of the Franchise, the Grantee shall furnish proof of the posting of a faithful performance bond in favor of the Grantor, with corporate surety approved by the Grantor (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld) in the sum specified in the Franchise and conditioned that the Grantee shall well and truly observe, fulfill, and perform each term and condition of the Franchise; provided, however, that such bond shall not be required after certification by Grantor of the completion of construction of Grantee's Cable System. The corporate surety must be authorized to issue such bonds in the State of California, and the bond must be obtained and secured through an authorized agent within the state of California only. During the course of construction, the amount of the bond may from time to time be reduced, as provided in the Franchise. Written evidence of payment of premiums shall be filed with the Grantor.
D. 
Letter of credit.
1. 
Bank Letter of Credit. At the option of the Grantor, the Grantee may be authorized, in lieu of creating a Security Fund or obtaining a Faithful Performance Bond, to post an irrevocable letter of credit, issued by a bank approved by the Grantor, in the amount specified in the Franchise. Said letter of credit shall incorporate wording approved by the Grantor enabling it to draw from time to time such funds as the Grantor may determine to be necessary to satisfy any material defaults of Grantee or to make any payments due Grantor under or in connection with this chapter or Grantee's Franchise, upon 10 days written notice to the issuer of the letter of credit. Said letter of credit shall further provide for 60 days written notice by certified mail from its issuer to Grantor of any pending expiration or cancellation, and said notice shall without further cause constitute reason for the Grantor to draw the full sum to be held in its own accounts until such letter of credit is re-established in a form satisfactory to Grantor.
2. 
Letter of Credit Fees. If Grantor requires such a letter of credit, Grantee shall pay all fees or other charges required to keep it in force and shall, within 30 days of any draw by Grantor, restore its face value to the original amount.
3. 
Applicability of Prior Security Provisions. All provisions herein applicable to bonds or security funds shall also apply to letters of credit.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Services to be provided. A Cable System shall provide, as a minimum, the broad programming categories specified in the Franchise.
B. 
Changes in services. Grantee shall inform Grantor and its Subscribers at least 30 days in advance of making any change in a Cable Service, or in the rates charged therefor, unless Grantor agrees to waive this requirement in writing.
C. 
Non-discrimination. Grantee shall not discriminate between or among Subscribers within one type or class in the availability of services, at either standard or differential rates according to published rate schedules, except as otherwise authorized by law. No charges may be made for services except as listed in published schedules which are available for inspection by anyone at Grantee's office, quoted by Grantee on the telephone, or displayed or communicated to all potential Subscribers.
D. 
Prepayment. Grantee may not charge Subscribers for services more than one month in advance unless an individual Subscriber requests a longer period. Bills may be due and payable upon mailing but shall not be delinquent, and no late charge penalties shall be assessed, until the later of: (i) 22 days from postmark; or (ii) service has actually been provided for the billed period. All bills and billing statements shall clearly indicate the billing period, the actual due date, and the delinquent or late payment or assessment.
E. 
Disconnect for cause. Grantee may disconnect a Subscriber only for cause, which shall include, without limitation, the following:
1. 
Payment delinquency in excess of 45 days after the delinquent bill was mailed to the Subscriber.
2. 
Willful or negligent damage to or misappropriation of Grantee's property.
3. 
Monitoring, tapping, or tampering with Grantee's system, signals, or service.
4. 
Threats of violence to Grantee's employees or property.
F. 
Reconnection. Grantee shall, upon Subscriber's written request, reconnect service which has been disconnected for payment delinquency when payment has removed the delinquency. If authorized by applicable law, a published standard charge may be made for reconnection. Grantee shall not be required to make more than three reconnections for the same subscriber if the disconnections involved were caused by payment delinquency within any previous 24 month period. Reconnection for disconnects covered by paragraphs 2, 3, or 4 of subsection E above shall be at Grantee's sole discretion.
G. 
Installations.
1. 
Service within Franchise Service Area. Grantee shall promptly provide and maintain service to the residential, commercial, and industrial structures as specified in the Franchise Service Area, as defined in the Franchise, upon request of the lawful occupant or owner.
2. 
New Drops. In the case of a new drop, Grantee shall advise each Subscriber that the Subscriber has the right to require that installation be done over any route on the Subscriber's property, and in any manner the Subscriber may elect which is technically feasible and consistent with proper construction practices. If the Subscriber requests installation other than a standard installation, then the Subscriber may be required to pay a reasonable fee for the time and materials occasioned by that installation.
3. 
Standard Installation. For purposes of this paragraph, a standard installation shall include installation of drop cable with fittings up to 150 feet from the CATV distribution system measured along the cable from the center line of the street or utility easement through the house wall or, at the Subscriber's option, through the floor from a house vent or crawl space directly to the Subscriber's television set with eight feet of cable from the wall or floor entry to the TV set. Also included as part of a standard installation is the grounding cable, fine tuning of the television set, and the provision by the Grantee of the appropriate literature and information.
4. 
Time for Delivery of Service. After Cable Service has been established by activating trunk or distribution cables for any area, Grantee shall provide Service to any person requesting Service in that area within seven days from the date of request, provided that the Grantee is able to secure all rights-of-way necessary to extend service to that potential Subscriber within that seven day period on reasonable terms and conditions.
H. 
Non-standard installations. For each non-standard drop installed, the Grantee may charge the subscriber for the cost of material and labor in excess of that for a standard drop. Grantee shall provide to each Subscriber a written estimate of all charges prior to installation and obtain Subscriber's written authorization in advance for all non-standard drop charges.
I. 
Converter/terminals. At such time as a converter or terminal is required for Subscribers to have access to all services on its System, Grantee shall make them available to Subscribers. Grantee may require each Subscriber who elects to install a converter or terminal to furnish a security deposit therefor.
1. 
Property of Grantee. Each converter or terminal device shall be and remain the property of the Grantee unless Grantor approves or requires its sale to the Subscriber. Grantee shall be responsible for maintenance and repair of all equipment owned by Grantee and may replace it as Grantee may from time-to-time elect, except that Subscriber shall be responsible for loss of or damage to any such device while in the Subscriber's possession.
2. 
Return of Converter/Terminal. Upon termination or cancellation of Subscriber's service, Subscriber shall promptly return Grantee's property to Grantee in the same condition as received, reasonable wear and tear excepted.
3. 
Use of Security Deposit. Grantee may apply the security deposit against any sum due from Subscriber for loss of or damage to such converter or terminal exceeding reasonable wear and tear. In the event that no security deposit has been required, the Grantee may charge the Subscriber for any such damage exceeding reasonable wear and tear.
4. 
Return of Security Deposit. If Grantee has no claim against the Subscriber's security deposit, Grantee shall return it, or the balance, to the Subscriber within 20 days of return of the converter or terminal.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
System construction. The System shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of the Franchise.
B. 
Construction components and techniques. Construction components and techniques shall be in accordance with the Franchise and all applicable law.
C. 
Technical and performance standards. Grantee shall construct, install, operate and maintain its System in a manner consistent with all applicable federal and state laws, and all applicable local ordinances, construction standards, construction specifications, governmental requirements, FCC technical standards, and any standards set forth in the Franchise.
D. 
Construction codes. The Grantee shall strictly adhere to all building and zoning codes currently or here-after in force and shall obtain all necessary permits. The Grantee shall arrange its lines, cables, and other appurtenances, on both public and private property, in such a manner as to cause no unreasonable interference with the use of said property by any person. In the event of such interference, the Grantor may require the removal of the Grantee's lines, cables, and appurtenances from the property in question. Grantee shall give at least 48 hours advance notice to all property owners and to the Grantor prior to installing any above-ground or underground structures upon easements located on private property. Grantee shall be a member of Underground Service Alert. Grantor shall not modify its construction requirements subsequent to the completion of construction so as to require reconstruction or retrofit unless the public health and safety so requires.
E. 
System construction schedule.
1. 
The Grantee shall begin to offer Cable Service and any other service authorized by the Franchise no later than the date specified in the Franchise.
2. 
The Grantee shall provide a detailed construction plan indicating progress schedule, area construction or reconstruction maps, test plan, and projected dates for offering service.
F. 
Geographical coverage. The Grantee shall construct the Cable System to service every Residential Dwelling Unit and other structures specified in the Franchise within the Franchise Service Area and any future annexations thereto (as defined and provided by the Franchise), with any exceptions requiring specific Grantor approval. Service shall be provided to Subscribers in accordance with the schedules specified in the Franchise. The route of separate cables serving institutional subscribers shall be as approved by Grantor and specified in the Franchise.
G. 
Construction default. Upon the failure, refusal or neglect of Grantee to cause any construction, repair, or the terms of any building permit, or other necessary work to comply with the terms of the Franchise, thereby creating an adverse impact upon public safety, Grantor may (but shall not be required to) cause such work to be completed in whole or in part, and upon so doing shall submit to Grantee an itemized statement of costs. Grantee shall be given reasonable advance notice of Grantor's intent to exercise this power, and 15 days to cure the default. Grantee shall, within 30 days of billing, pay to Grantor the actual costs incurred.
H. 
Vacation or abandonment. In the event any street, alley, public highway, or portion thereof used by the Grantee shall be vacated by the Grantor, or the use thereof discontinued by the Grantee, upon reasonable notice the Grantee shall forthwith remove its facilities therefrom unless specifically permitted to continue the same. On the removal thereof Grantee shall restore, repair or reconstruct the area where such removal has occurred, to such condition as may be required by the Grantor, but not in excess of the original condition. In the event of any failure, neglect or refusal of the Grantee, after 30 days' notice by the Grantor, to do such work, Grantor may cause it to be done, and Grantee shall, within 30 days of billing, pay to Grantor the actual costs incurred.
I. 
Abandonment in place. Grantor may, upon written application by Grantee, approve the abandonment of any property in place by Grantee, under such terms and conditions as Grantor may approve. Upon Grantor-approved abandonment of any property in place, Grantee shall cause to be executed, acknowledged, and delivered to Grantor such instruments as Grantor shall prescribe and approve, transferring and conveying the ownership of such property to Grantor.
J. 
Removal of system facilities. In the event that Grantee's plant is deactivated for a continuous period of 30 days (except for reasons outside Grantee's control), without prior written notice to and approval by Grantor, then Grantee shall, at Grantor's option and demand, and at the sole expense of Grantee, promptly remove from any streets or other areas all property of Grantee. Grantee shall promptly restore the streets or other areas from which such property has been removed to its condition existing prior to Grantee's use thereof; provided that Grantee shall not be required to remove conduit from underground, where Grantor has determined no damage to the surface of any structures will result from such non-removal.
K. 
Movement of facilities. In the event it is necessary at Grantor's discretion, to temporarily move or remove any of the Grantee's property to accommodate construction activity or a project of the Grantor, Grantee, upon reasonable notice, shall move, at the expense of Grantee, its property as may be required to facilitate such public purpose. No such movement shall be deemed a taking of Grantee's property. Nothing herein shall limit the right of Grantee to seek reimbursement from any party other than Grantor.
L. 
Undergrounding of cable. Cables shall be installed underground at Grantee's cost where either electricity or telephone utilities are already underground pursuant to the Grantor's adopted undergrounding policy. Previously installed aerial cable shall be installed underground at Grantee's pro rata cost in concert with other utilities only when such other utilities convert from aerial to underground construction.
M. 
Facility agreements. No Franchise shall relieve Grantee of any obligations involved in obtaining pole or conduit space from any department of Grantor, any utility company, or from others maintaining utilities in Grantor's streets.
N. 
Extension of franchise service area. If Grantor elects to grant one or more Franchises hereunder, and if thereafter one or more of the Franchises expires or is otherwise terminated, Grantor may, if it so elects, require a remaining Grantee, or more than one, to extend its System to provide service to the Franchise Service Area previously served under the terminated Franchise, unless Grantee demonstrates to Grantor's reasonable satisfaction that it is not commercially practicable to do so; provided, however, that Grantee shall not be required to over-build any existing system. The terms and requirements of such extension shall not exceed those contained in this chapter or in Grantee's Franchise.
O. 
Repair of streets and public ways. Any and all streets and public ways, and improvements located within such streets and public ways, disturbed or damaged by the Grantee or its contractors during the construction, operation, maintenance, or reconstruction of the System, shall be restored at Grantee's expense, and within the time frame and limits specified by Grantor, to their original condition unless otherwise authorized in writing by Grantor.
P. 
Erection of poles prohibited. The Grantee shall not erect any pole on or along any street or public way where there is an existing aerial utility system. If additional poles in an existing aerial route are required, Grantee shall negotiate with the public utility for their installation. Any such installation shall require the advance written approval of the Grantor. Subject to applicable federal and state law, the Grantee shall negotiate the lease of pole space and facilities from the existing pole owners for all aerial construction, under mutually acceptable terms and conditions.
Q. 
Reservation of street rights. Nothing in a Franchise shall prevent the Grantor from constructing, repairing, or altering any public work. All such work shall be done, insofar as practicable, in such manner as not to unnecessarily obstruct, injure or prevent the free use and operation of any property of Grantee. However, if any property of Grantee shall interfere with the construction, maintenance, or repair of any public improvement, that property shall be removed or replaced in such manner as directed by Grantor so that the same shall not interfere with the public work, and such removal or replacement shall be at the expense of the Grantee.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Maintenance and complaints.
1. 
Service Area Office. The Grantee shall maintain an office in the Franchise Service Area, or at such other location as is approved by the Grantor in writing, or as described in the Franchise. That office must be open during all usual business hours, but in no case less than 48 hours per week, including at least one weekend day per week. Grantor shall have a publicly listed, non-toll-charge telephone number that is in operation to receive Subscriber complaints and requests on a 24-hour basis. Current information shall be maintained of all complaints and their disposition, and a summary thereof shall be submitted to Grantor upon request, but no more often than monthly.
2. 
Response to Service Concerns. The Grantee shall respond to requests as follows: (i) within eight hours after receipt of a request for repairs relating to a Service Interruption affecting at least 10% of the Subscribers of the System; (ii) within 24 hours after receipt of requests for service related to all other Service Interruptions; (iii) and within 48 hours for all other complaints and requests for repair. All Cable System related problems shall be resolved within five business days unless technically infeasible. No charge shall be made to a Subscriber for such service or repairs, except that Grantee may charge for service calls not related to its Cable System, or that are caused by the Subscriber or members of its household, or the Subscriber's agents or guests.
3. 
Customer Service Telephone System. The Grantee shall provide a telephone service system to receive all construction and service complaints. A sufficient number of customer service representatives shall be provided so that callers are not required to wait more than 30 seconds before being connected to a customer service representative 90% of the time, measured quarterly, or to receive busy signals more than three percent of the time, measured quarterly. The telephone number of the local office shall be listed in the telephone directory serving the City of Santa Barbara. The telephone service system shall accept complaints 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The telephone service system shall be capable of generating reports relating to answer times, response times, hold times, and abandoned calls.
4. 
Identification. Customer service personnel shall identify themselves immediately.
5. 
Supervisors. Customers shall have the right to speak with a supervisor, and if none is available, a supervisor shall return the customer's call within one working day.
6. 
Grantee Identification. All officers, agents, or employees of the Grantee, including its contractors or subcontractors, who come into regular contact with members of the public shall wear on their outer clothing a photo-identification card in a form reasonably acceptable to Grantor during those periods of time they are dealing with members of the public. Grantee shall account for all identification cards at all times. Every vehicle of Grantee, or its major subcontractors, shall be clearly identifiable as working for Grantee.
7. 
Scheduling of Service Appointments. Grantee shall provide Subscribers with the option of scheduling a four-hour period, either in the morning or afternoon, in which a service call will be made.
8. 
Rescheduling of Late Appointments. If a Grantee representative is running late for an appointment with a customer, or will not be able to keep the appointment as scheduled, the customer will be contacted and the appointment will be rescheduled, as necessary, at a time which is convenient for the customer. The customer has the option of rescheduling the appointment within a specified two-hour period.
B. 
Remedies for inadequate performance. Except for rebuild or planned Service Interruptions for which Grantee receives prior approval from the Grantor or except for system-wide outages in excess of six consecutive hours or 12 nonconsecutive hours within any 30-day period (for which fee rebates shall be paid to Subscribers by Grantee without a request thereof), in the event that one-third or more of its service to any Subscriber is interrupted for six consecutive hours, or for a total of 12 nonconsecutive hours within any 30-day period, and Subscriber notifies Grantee of said Service Interruption within 24 hours of Subscriber discovery thereof and requests a rebate of fees as a result thereof, Grantee shall provide a 10% rebate of the monthly fees to affected Subscribers for each such consecutive six-hour and/or nonconsecutive 12-hour Service Interruption period. Grantor shall provide a 50% rebate of the monthly fees to all affected Subscribers for failure to make a service call within the specified four hour period. In no case shall such rebate exceed the monthly fee charged to the Subscriber.
C. 
Triennial audit of performance.
1. 
Performance Audits. Grantor may require, at its option, that performance audits of the System be conducted every three years by an independent technical consultant selected and employed by Grantor to verify that the System complies with all technical standards and other specifications of the Franchise.
2. 
Review of Audit. Upon completion of a performance audit, the Grantor and Grantee shall meet to review the performance of the Cable System. The reports required by this chapter regarding Subscriber complaints, the records of performance audits and tests, and the opinion survey report shall be utilized as the basis for review. In addition, any Subscriber may submit complaints prior to or during the review meetings, either orally or in writing, and these shall also be considered.
3. 
Findings Regarding Compliance. Within 30 days after the conclusion of the System performance review meetings, Grantor shall issue findings with respect to the compliance of the System and quality of service. If non-compliance is found, Grantor may direct Grantee to correct the inadequacies within such period of time as Grantor determines is reasonable.
4. 
Non-Waiver of Rights. Participation by the Grantor and the Grantee in this process shall not waive any rights they may possess under applicable federal or state law.
5. 
Other Audits. In addition to the triennial Audit described above, Grantor may conduct an annual audit of the same or lesser magnitude, at its sole expense, when and if determined necessary or appropriate by Grantor.
D. 
System equipment location. Grantee shall provide Grantor with a computer disk or other data storage device requested by Grantor, in format approved by Grantor, which details and documents all of Grantee's equipment and facilities and their geographic location in the City. Such computer disk or other device shall be updated annually and whenever there have been significant changes in the location of Grantee's equipment and facilities. In addition, Grantee shall maintain in its local office, a complete and up-to-date set of as-built system maps and drawings upon completion of construction or reconstruction, equipment specification and maintenance publications, and signal level diagrams for each active piece of electronic equipment in the system. As-built drawings shall show all lines and installed equipment, and tap valves and spigots. The scale of maps and drawings shall be sufficient to show the required details in easily readable form and size. Technical data at the local office shall also include approved pole applications, details and documentation of satellite and microwave equipment, mobile radio units, heavy construction vehicles and equipment, and video and audio equipment normally used in the operation of the system. If Grantor requires use of technical data in its own office, it may make copies of any items at Grantor's expense. To the extent Grantee designates the provided information as proprietary or confidential, Grantor will, to the extent allowed by applicable law, utilize reasonable efforts to protect the confidentiality or proprietary nature of such information provided, however, that in so doing, Grantor makes no representations or warranties to Grantee regarding its ability to maintain the confidentiality of such information.
E. 
Availability of technical data. All technical data shall be available for Grantor's inspection during normal business hours and, upon reasonable notice. In the event of System failure or other operating emergency, the technical data will be made available at any time, so long as the provision of said data does not unreasonably interfere with Grantee's operations.
F. 
Emergency repair capability. It shall be Grantee's responsibility to assure that its personnel, qualified to make repairs, are available at all reasonable times and that they are supplied with keys, equipment location instructions, and technical information necessary to begin repairs upon notification of the need to maintain or restore continuous service to the System.
G. 
Customer service standards and procedures.
1. 
Information to Customers. The Grantee shall, at the time service is initiated, provide each new Subscriber with written information covering:
a. 
The time allowed to pay outstanding bills.
b. 
Grounds for termination of service.
c. 
The steps the Grantee must take before terminating service.
d. 
How the customer can resolve billing disputes.
e. 
The steps necessary to have service reconnected after involuntary termination.
f. 
The fact that customer service personnel must identify themselves immediately.
g. 
The fact that Subscribers have the right to speak with a supervisor, and if none is available, a supervisor shall return the Subscriber's call within one working day.
h. 
The appropriate regulatory authority with which to register a complaint and how to contact that authority.
In addition, at least once each calendar year, Grantee shall notify each Subscriber that information is available upon request concerning paragraphs (a) through (h) above.
2. 
Written Notices. Written notice of all terms of the customer agreement, the name, address and telephone number of the Cable Operator, all equipment and fee options, the availability of "A/B" switches, the availability of parental control devices, any reduced rates for seniors or other Subscribers, company billing and credit practices, company practices with respect to privacy of Subscribers, the telephone numbers for customer complaints, the telephone number of the Grantor, and other relevant information, shall be made by Grantee to Subscribers before service is commenced, at least once each calendar year, at any time upon the request of the Subscriber, and whenever changes to such policies are made.
3. 
Advance Notice of Changes. Except as otherwise provided by applicable law, advance notice of increases in fees or charges, and changes in channel lineup of stations or services, shall be sent to Grantor and to Subscribers at least 30 days before the changes are made, except for changes not known sufficiently in advance by Grantee and not under Grantee's control, or where Grantor's waiver is obtained. Notices must be clearly identified and in print large enough to be easily readable.
4. 
Billing.
a. 
Billing Frequency and Format. Bills for service shall be rendered monthly, unless otherwise authorized by the Subscriber and the Grantee or unless service is rendered for a period less than one month. All bills shall contain a telephone number and a mailing address for billing inquiries or disputes and shall clearly delineate all charges and the basis for those charges.
b. 
Disputed Bills. In the event of a dispute between a Subscriber and the Grantee regarding the bill, the Grantee shall promptly make such investigation as is required by the particular case and report the results to the Subscriber. If the dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of both parties, the Grantee shall inform the Subscriber of the Grantee's complaint procedures. If the Subscriber wishes to obtain the benefits of this paragraph, notification of the disputed bill must be given by the Subscriber to the Grantee in writing within 30 days after the bill date.
The Subscriber shall not be required to pay the disputed portion of the bill until the earlier of the following:
i. 
Resolution of the dispute; or
ii. 
Expiration of the 45-day period beginning on the date of the Subscriber's written notification.
Pending resolution of the bill dispute, Grantee shall exercise reasonable care to ensure that no termination notices are issued for the disputed portions of the bill, and that no other collection procedures are initiated for the disputed amount. Any such activity may be interpreted as an attempt to avoid the provisions of these rules and may constitute a violation of these rules.
c. 
Referral of Accounts to Collection Agencies. Uncollected accounts may be referred to private collection agencies for appropriate action if the bill has not been paid by the earlier of (i) 30 days following date of involuntary termination; or (ii) the 61st day following the mailing date of the original uncollected amount, provided that no notification of a billing dispute has been made.
If the account was voluntarily terminated by Subscriber, for any reason, the account may not be referred to a private collection agency until at least 30 days following mailing of the final bill. If notification of a billing dispute is made, all collection procedures shall be delayed as required in paragraph 4.b entitled "Disputed Bills." Referral to collection agent shall then occur no sooner than the 91st day following the billing date of the original uncollected amount.
d. 
Termination for Non-Payment. Bills shall not be delinquent earlier than 27 days from the date of the bill, which must be mailed to Subscribers within five working days prior to the stated due date. Subscribers must be notified in writing of a proposed disconnection for non-payment at least 15 days prior to disconnection.
5. 
Refund. When a Subscriber voluntarily discontinues service, Grantee shall refund, within 20 days of the discontinuance of service, the unused portion of any advance payments after deducting any charges currently due through the date of such discontinuance. Unused payment portions shall be the percentage of time for which Subscriber has paid for service and will not receive it because of the Subscriber's discontinuation of service.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Use of public streets. From and after the effective date of this chapter, it shall be unlawful for any person to construct, install, or maintain in any public place within Grantor's territory, or upon any easement owned or controlled by a public utility, or within any other public property of Grantor, or within any privately-owned area within Grantor's jurisdiction which is not yet, but is designated as, a proposed public place on a tentative subdivision map approved by Grantor, any equipment, facilities, or System for distributing signals or services through a Cable Television System, unless a Franchise has first been obtained hereunder, and is in full force and effect.
B. 
Unauthorized connections. It is unlawful for any person to make or use any unauthorized connection to, or to monitor, tap, receive or send any signal or service via a franchised System, or to enable anyone to receive or use any service, television or radio signal, picture, program, or sound, or any other signal without payment to the owner of said System.
C. 
Tampering with facilities. It is unlawful, without the consent of the owner, to willfully attach to, tamper with, modify, remove or injure any physical part of or signals on a franchised Cable Television System.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Revocation. Consistent with applicable law, and in addition to any rights set out elsewhere in this chapter, the Grantor reserves the right to revoke a Franchise, subject to the procedural guidelines set forth in Section 5.62.130 hereof in the event that:
1. 
The Grantee willfully or negligently violates any material provision of its Franchise.
2. 
The Grantee's construction schedule as set forth in this Franchise, is materially delayed, and such delay is within the control of Grantee.
B. 
Forfeiture. Upon failure of the Grantee to comply with any material term of its Franchise, the Grantor may, subject to the procedural guidelines set forth in Section 5.62.130 hereof, declare a forfeiture. The Grantee may be required to remove its structures or property from the Grantor's streets and to restore those streets to their prior condition within a reasonable period of time. Upon failure to do so, the Grantor may perform the work and collect all costs, including direct and indirect costs, from the Grantee. At Grantor's discretion, the cost thereof may be placed as a lien upon all plant, property, or other assets of the Grantee.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Applicants for a Franchise may submit to the Grantor, or to designated representative, written application in a format provided by the Grantor, at the time and place specified by the Grantor for accepting applications (including applications to renew a franchise) and accompanied by the designated application fee. A non-refundable application fee, in an amount established by resolution of the Grantor, shall accompany the application or re-application to cover all costs associated with processing the application, including without limitation, costs of administrative review, financial, legal and technical evaluation of the applicant, the costs of consultants (including technical and legal experts), notice and publication requirements, and document preparation expenses.
B. 
In the event such costs exceed the application fee, the applicant shall pay the difference to Grantor within 20 days following receipt of an itemized statement of such costs. In the event such costs are less than the applicable fee, the Grantor shall pay the difference to the applicant within 20 days of the determination of costs. This provision is procedural and shall not constitute the grant of any right to the Grantee.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Grantee to provide records. All reports and records required under this section shall be furnished at the sole expense of Grantee.
B. 
Records. Grantor must maintain in its local offices, and make available for inspection during normal business hours, a separate and complete set of business records for the Franchise. The Grantee shall provide that information in such form as may be required by the Grantor, as well as copies of any records of Grantee upon Grantor's request, so long as said information is reasonably related to the scope of Grantor's rights under this chapter, the Franchise, or Grantor's regulatory functions.
C. 
Maintenance and inspection of records. Grantee shall keep true and accurate books and records in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, consistently applied, showing all income, expenses, borrowing, payments, investments of capital, and all other transactions relating to the System. Grantor shall, upon reasonable notice, have the right to inspect said records and receive copies thereof to the extent said information is reasonably related to the scope of the Grantor's rights under this chapter, the Franchise, or the Grantor's regulatory functions. Any Grantee records kept at another place shall, within 10 days of Grantor's request, be made available at Grantee's local premises within the County of Santa Barbara.
D. 
Reports of financial and operating activity.
1. 
Annual Reports. No later than 90 days after the close of Grantee's fiscal year, Grantee shall submit an audited written report to the Grantor which shall include:
a. 
Financial Report. A financial report, audited and certified by a financial officer of Grantee, for all Cable System activity during the previous fiscal year, including Gross Receipts from all sources and gross subscriber revenues from each Service. The report must set out separately all Gross Receipts from all sources in the City and Gross Subscriber Revenues from each Service in the City, and all payments, deductions, and computations of franchise fees.
b. 
Previous Year's Activity. A summary of the previous year's activities, including, but not limited to, subscriber totals and new services.
c. 
List of Officers and Directors. A current list of Grantee's officers, directors, and other principals which reflects any change in the previous year's list.
d. 
Shareholders List. A list of stockholders or other equity investors holding 20% or more of the voting interests in Grantee which reflects any change from the previous year's list.
e. 
Complaint Summary. A summary of complaints received and remedial actions taken.
f. 
Rate Schedule. A current rate schedule for the various services offered by Grantee.
2. 
Performance Tests and Compliance Reports. No later than April 15th of each year, the Grantee shall provide a written report of any FCC or other performance tests required or conducted. In addition, the Grantee shall provide reports of the test and compliance procedures required by its Franchise, or by this chapter, no later than 30 days after the completion of those tests and compliance procedures.
3. 
Additional Reports. The Grantee shall prepare and furnish to the Grantor in writing, at the times and in the form reasonably prescribed by Grantor, such additional reports as may reasonably be required with respect to Grantee's compliance with the provisions of its Franchise and this chapter.
E. 
Communications with regulatory agencies. Copies of all non-routine or material communications between the Grantee and the Federal Communications Commission, or any other agency having jurisdiction in respect to any matters affecting cable communications operations authorized pursuant to the Franchise, shall be submitted promptly to the Grantor upon receipt or mailing by Grantee.
F. 
Examination of facilities. Upon reasonable notice, and during normal business hours, Grantee shall permit examination, by any duly authorized representative of Grantor, of all Franchise property and facilities, together with any appurtenant property and facilities of Grantee situated within the City.
G. 
Right to audit.
1. 
Frequency of Audits. In addition to any other inspection rights under this chapter or the Franchise, upon 10 days prior written notice, during the term of a franchise and for a period of five years thereafter, Grantor shall have the right to inspect, examine, or audit, during normal business hours, all documents pertaining to the Grantee or any Affiliated Person which are reasonably necessary to the Grantor's enforcement of its rights under the terms of this chapter or the Franchise. All such documents shall be made available at the local office of the Grantee. All such documents pertaining to financial matters which may be the subject of an audit by the Grantor as set forth herein shall be retained by the Grantee for a minimum of five years following the termination of the Franchise. Access by the Grantor to any of the documents covered by this subsection G shall not be denied by the Grantee on grounds that such documents are alleged by the Grantee to contain proprietary information.
2. 
Written Certifications. Grantor may require written certification by the Grantee's directors, officers, or other employees with respect to all documents referred to in this subsection.
3. 
Costs of Audit. Any audit conducted by the Grantor pursuant to this subsection G shall be conducted at the sole expense of the Grantor, and the Grantor shall prepare a written report containing its findings, a copy of which shall be mailed to the Grantee; provided, however, that the Grantee shall reimburse the Grantor for the expense of any such audit if, as the result of said audit, it is determined that there is a shortfall of more than two percent in the amount of franchise fees or other payments which have been made or will be made by the Grantee to the Grantor pursuant to the terms of the Franchise. Such reimbursement shall occur within 30 days of Grantee's receipt of a written notice of a determination that a shortfall of greater than two percent exists.
H. 
Retention of experts. In the exercise of its rights under this chapter, the Grantor shall have the further right to retain technical experts and other consultants on a periodic basis for the purpose of monitoring, testing, and inspecting any construction, operation, or maintenance of the System, and all parts thereof, or to ensure compliance with and enforcement of the provisions of this chapter and the Franchise. The Grantor shall bear the cost of retaining such experts, provided that the Grantee shall reimburse the Grantor for all expenses related to the retention of said experts where this chapter or the Franchise so provide, or under either of the following circumstances:
1. 
The Grantee has initiated proceedings which would normally require the Grantor to retain such experts, such as the filing of a request for approval of a transfer or change in control, renewal to the extent allowed by law, expansion of the Franchise or Service Area, or the modification or amendment of the Franchise;
2. 
The reports of such experts submitted to the Grantor reveal that the Grantee has failed to substantially comply with the terms and conditions of this chapter or of the Franchise.
If Grantee is required to reimburse Grantor pursuant to this subsection H, Grantor shall send Grantee an itemized description of such charges, and Grantee shall pay such amount within 20 days after the receipt of such description.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Notice and hearing for franchise default.
1. 
Written Demand for Corrections. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or in the Franchise, prior to formal consideration by Grantor of termination, revocation, or forfeiture of Grantee's Franchise, or any other penalty or administrative remedy available to the Grantor, including liquidated damages, attributable to Grantee's failure, willful, negligent, or otherwise, to adhere to the terms and conditions of the Franchise or this chapter, Grantor shall make written demand on Grantee to correct the alleged default. Grantor and Grantee shall expeditiously meet to discuss the alleged default, at which time Grantee shall indicate, in writing, the amount of time necessary to resolve the alleged problem. Giving due consideration to Grantee's request, Grantor shall, in writing, state the amount of time Grantor will allow Grantee to resolve the problem. During this time period, but in no event less than 10 days before the final date for correction, Grantee may request additional time to correct the problem, and Grantor shall grant said request if Grantor determines, in the exercise of its discretion, that such time is necessary due to delays beyond Grantee's control. If the default continues for a period of 10 days following the deadline for corrections, plus any extension thereof, a hearing shall be scheduled by Grantor on such Franchise termination, revocation, forfeiture, or any other penalty or administrative remedy.
2. 
Notice of Correction Hearing. The Administrative Officer shall provide written notice of such hearing, including the grounds for the proposed action, to the Grantee no less than 30 days before the hearing on the matter. In addition, the Administrative Officer, as part of said written notification, shall state the procedures to be followed by the Grantor to determine whether cause for termination, revocation, forfeiture, or other penalty exists. At a minimum, said procedures shall afford the Grantee adequate notice and a fair opportunity for full participation, including the right to introduce evidence, to require the production of evidence, to question witnesses, and to obtain a transcript of the proceeding at Grantee's expense. Within 10 days after the receipt of said notice, Grantee shall file any written objections to said procedures. The Administrative Officer shall notify Grantee of any modification to the procedures and provide another 10 day objection period. Any objections not raised within said 10 day periods shall be deemed waived. At the hearing, Grantor (or an appropriate hearing board or commission designated for that purpose by Grantor) shall hear Grantee, and any person interested in the matter, and shall determine, at that or subsequent meetings, an appropriate course of action for enforcement or termination of Grantee's Franchise.
B. 
Delegation of enforcement mechanisms. Such liquidated damages as Grantor may assess against Grantee which do not include loss of the Franchise may, at Grantor's option, be determined by an officer or agency of the Grantor to which it may delegate such administrative decisions, subject to due process and the criteria contained in this chapter and the Franchise, and subject to appeal to the City Council.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
The Grantee shall endeavor to interconnect access channels of the cable system with any or all other CATV systems in contiguous areas, upon the request of the City. Interconnection of systems may be done by direct cable connection, microwave link, satellite, or other appropriate method. Upon receiving the request of the City to interconnect, the Grantee shall immediately initiate negotiations with the other affected system or systems in order that all costs may be shared equally among cable operators for both construction and the operation of the interconnection link. The Grantee may be granted reasonable extensions of time to interconnect or the City may rescind its order to interconnect upon petition by the Grantee to the City. The City shall grant said request if it finds that the Grantee has negotiated in good faith and has failed to obtain an approval from the system or systems involved with the proposed interconnection, or that the cost of the interconnection would cause an unreasonable or unacceptable increase in subscriber rates.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)
A. 
Captions. The section, subsection, paragraph, and subparagraph numbers and letters, and the captions throughout this chapter, are intended to facilitate reading and reference. Such numbers, letters, and captions shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of any part of this chapter.
B. 
Franchise references. A Franchise which cites, refers to, or otherwise incorporates this chapter, or portions thereof, shall be deemed to be a Franchise issued under and subject to this chapter.
C. 
Filings. When not otherwise specified in this chapter, all documents required to be filed with Grantor shall be filed with the Grantor's representative as designated by Grantor.
D. 
Non-enforcement by the grantor. A Grantee shall not be relieved of its obligation to comply with all provisions of this chapter, and of its Franchise, and all laws and regulations, by reason of any failure of the Grantor to demand prompt compliance.
E. 
Continuity of service. It is the right of all Subscribers to receive all available services authorized by the Franchise so long as their financial and other obligations to the Grantee are honored. In the event that the Grantee elects to rebuild, modify, or sell the System, the Grantee shall use due diligence and reasonable care to ensure that all Subscribers receive continuous, uninterrupted service. In the event of purchase by the Grantor, or a change of Grantee, the current Grantee shall cooperate with the Grantor or new Grantee to operate the System for a temporary period, in order to maintain continuity of service to all Subscribers. In the event that Grantee, through its own fault, discontinues system-wide service for 72 continuous hours, and Grantee is in material default of its Franchise, or if the Franchise is revoked by Grantor (but not if Grantor fails to renew the Franchise), Grantor may, by resolution, when it deems reasonable cause to exist, assume operation of the System for the purpose of maintaining continuity of service. Grantor's operation of the System may continue until the circumstances which, in the judgment of the Grantor, threaten the continuity of service are resolved to Grantor's satisfaction. Grantor shall be entitled to the revenues for any period during which it operates the System.
F. 
Operation by grantor. During any period when the System is being operated by Grantor pursuant to subsection E above, Grantor shall attempt to cause as little disruption of operations as is consistent with the maintenance of continuing service to Subscribers. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Grantor shall, as it may deem necessary, make any changes in any aspect of operations that, in Grantor's sole judgment, are required for the preservation of quality of service and its continuity.
G. 
Management by grantor. Grantor may, upon assuming operation of a System franchised hereunder, appoint a manager to act for it in conducting the System's affairs. Such manager shall have such authority as may be delegated by Grantor and shall be solely responsible to Grantor for management of the System. Grantee shall reimburse Grantor for all its reasonable costs, in excess of System revenues, incurred during Grantor's operation if the Franchise is in full force and effect during the period of Grantor's operation.
H. 
Notices. All notices and other communications to Grantee shall be addressed to it at the local address at which Grantee conducts its business. All notices and other communications to Grantor shall be addressed to Santa Barbara City Hall, or such other address as may be designated by Grantor.
I. 
Force majeure; grantee's inability to perform. In the event Grantee's performance of any of the terms, conditions, obligations, or requirements of this chapter, or any Franchise granted hereunder, is prevented or impaired due to any cause beyond its reasonable control and not reasonably foreseeable, such inability to perform shall be deemed to be excused, and no penalties or sanctions shall be imposed as a result thereof. Such causes beyond Grantee's reasonable control and not reasonably foreseeable shall include, but not be limited to, any acts of God, civil emergencies, labor unrest, strikes, utility interruptions, inability to obtain gratis access to an individual's property, and any inability of the Grantee to secure all required authorizations or permits to utilize necessary poles or conduits, so long as Grantee uses due diligence to timely obtain said authorization or permits.
J. 
Application. All of the provisions of this chapter shall be applicable to all Cable Operators and Cable Systems to the greatest extent permissible under applicable law.
K. 
Severability. If any provision of this chapter is determined to be void or invalid by any administrative or judicial tribunal, said provision shall be deemed severable and such invalidation shall not invalidate the entirety of this chapter or any other provision thereof.
(Ord. 5004, 1997)