The purpose of this chapter shall be to provide
for Town regulation and use of the community antenna television system,
including its construction, operation and maintenance in, along, upon,
across, above, over and under the streets, alleys, public ways and
public places now laid out or dedicated, and all extensions thereof
and additions thereto, in the Town of Alfred, including poles, wires,
cables, underground conduits, manholes, conductors and fixtures necessary
for the maintenance and operation in the Town of Alfred of the community
antenna television system and to provide conditions accompanying the
grant of franchise and to provide for the Town regulation of CATV
operation.
As used in this chapter, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
CABLE TELEVISION COMPANY
Any person, firm or corporation owning, controlling, operating,
managing or leasing a CATV system within the Town of Alfred, sometimes
hereinafter referred to as the "company."
CATV
Any community antenna television system or facility that,
in whole or part, receives, directly or indirectly, over the air and
amplifies or otherwise modifies signals transmitting programs broadcast
by one or more television or radio stations or originates its own
signal or signals by wire or cable to subscribing members of the public
who pay for such services, except for any facility that serves fewer
than 50 subscribers, but such term shall not include any such facility
that serves only the residents of one or more apartment dwellings
under common ownership, control or management.
TOWN
The Town of Alfred, Maine, organized and existing under the
laws in the State of Maine, and the area within its territorial limits.
No person, firm or corporation shall install,
maintain or operate within the Town or any part of its public streets
or other public areas any equipment or facilities for the operation
of a CATV system unless a franchise authorizing the use of said public
streets or areas has first been obtained pursuant to the provisions
of this chapter and unless said franchise is in full force and effect.
Before authorizing the issuance of any such
franchise contract or contracts, the Alfred Board of Selectmen shall
review the applicant's character, financial and technical qualifications
and the adequacy and feasibility of its qualification to operate a
CATV system throughout the Town and shall conduct a public hearing
thereon with at least seven days' advertised notice prior to said
public hearing.