9.c) Forest Lake Cable Commission Joint and Cooperative Agreement Meeting Date: 8/21/2012
Agenda Item: � Gl
, �
City Council Agenda Report
City of Scandia
14727 209�' St. North
Scandia, MN 55073 (651) 433-2274
Action Requested: Discuss Scandia's participation in the Forest Lake Cable Commission
(FLCC),postponed from the July 17, 2012 meeting.
Deadline/Timeline: N/A
Background: • This matter was placed on the July 21 agenda at the request of
Mayor Simonson.
• Discussion was postponed to give the Council time to review a
PEG (Public-Education-Government) Access Review Report
which was to be released to the FLCC shortly after the meeting.
• Council members received a copy of the PEG Access Report in
July.
Recommendation: See the report prepared for the July 17, 2012 meeting attached.
Attachments/ • Staff report for 7/17/12 Council meeting, with attachments
Materials provided: . (PEG Access Review report and related materials provided
previously)
Contact(s):
Prepared by: Anne Hurlburt, Administrator
(FLCC JPO)
Page 1 of 1
08/14/12
Meeting Date: 7/'i 7/2012
Agenda Item: ��
/ ;� .�
11 - F:-/'
City CounciE Agenda ftepart
C�ty of Scandia
14727 209th St.North
Scandia, MN 55073 (651) 433-2274
Actiore Requested: Discuss Scandia's participation in the Forest Lake Cable Commission
(FLCC). Consider whether to adopt a resolution approving the
dissolution and termination of the FLCC and the Joint and
Cooperative Agreement establishing it(requested by Mayor
Simonson.)
Deadline/Timeline: N/A
Background: • The Forest Lake Cable Commission(FLCC) is a joint powers
organization of the cities of Forest Lake, Columbus and Scandia.
The primary activity of the FLCC is to produce government and
local access programming for replay on LATV-10 and Ranger-20
cable stations. It is supported by subscriber fees from the cable
company and franchise fees passed through the 3 cities. Each city
has two representatives on the boazd of directors, an elected
official (Mayor Simonson) and a citizen member(myself.)
• The purpose of the organization, as stated by the Joint Powers
Agreement is to "monitor the operations and activities of cable
communications and related communications matters,provide
coordination of administration, enforcement and renewal of the
franchises of the members, and to conduct such other activities
authorized herein as may be necessary to protect the interests of
the Member and it citizens with respect to the delivery of cable
communications and related communications matters. "
• The full Council last discussed the FLCC in February of 2011,
when the FLCC faced some issues that caused the city's
representatives to believe it might be desirable to significantly
change or perhaps dissolve the Commission. This resulted in a
meeting of representatives of all three cities in March of 2011. A
memo summarizing the results of that meeting is attached. Since
then,the FLCC has gone forward with its activities including work
necessary to develop and recommend a new franchise agreement
to replace the ones that will be expiring in the fa11.
� On July 3, 2012, after meeting with representatives of the City of
Page ] of 2
07/]3/12
CITY OF SCANDIA
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE DISSOLUTION AND TERMINATION OF THE
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION, THE DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS THEREFROM
AND THE TERMINATION OF THE AUGUST 24,2007 JOINT AND COOPERATIVE
AGREEMENT ESTABLISHING SUCH COMMISSION
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Cities of Scandia ("Scandia"), Columbus ("Columbus") and Forest Lake
("Forest Lake")(collectively, the "Parties") are parties to a Joint and Cooperative Agreement dated
August 24, 2007 (the "Agreement") establishing a cable communications commission
("Commission") and setting out the rights and obligations of the Parties thereto; and
WHEREAS,Article XI of the Agreement provides for the termination of the Agreement and
the Commission by the mutual agreement of two or more of the Parties; and
WHEREAS, the Scandia City Council has determined that the continued participation of
Scandia in the Commission and the Agreement is no longer in the best interests of Scandia and its
residents including those residents currently subscribing to the cable television services provided in
Scandia and therefore desires to terminate and dissolve the Commission and the Agreement; and
WHEREAS, Scandia understands that Columbus is also considering terminating the
Agreement and dissolving the Commission.
RESOLUTION
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that subject to and contingent on the approval
of such action by the Columbus City Council, the City Council of the City of Scandia hereby
approves the dissolution and termination of the Commission and the Agreement as provided in and
allowed by Article XI of the Agreement.
FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Administrator and her designee are
authorized and directed to communicate the foregoing approval to the appropriate Columbus officials
and to request a similar approval by Columbus to the dissolution and ternunation of the Commission
and Agreement.
FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that upon the approval of the dissolution and ternunation
of the Commission and Agreement by Columbus, the Scandia staff are hereby directed to negotiate
such documents and take such actions as are required to carry out the dissolution and termination of
the Commission as provided in the Agreement.
FINALLY, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Administrator of Scandia are
authorized and directed to take such actions and execute such documents as are reasonably required
by and consistent with the spirit and intent of the matters described in this Resolution.
i
T'homas F.Miller,Esq.* J.Vincent Stevens,Esq.
tom@millerstevens.com vince@millerstevens.com
MILLER & STEVENS, P.A.
Paralegal: Legal Assistants:
Erin E.Wilkerson "A General Practice Law Firm Since 1998" Kristin Jensen
erin@millerstevens.com Sara Giese
*licensed in MN&WI
July 10, 2012 VIA E-MAIL
Anne Hurlburt,City Administrator
City of Scandia
14727 209`�' Street
Scandia, N1N 55073
Re: Forest Lake Cable Commission
Our File No. 12-S03-TFM
Dear Anne:
INTRODUCTION
This letter relates to the Forest Lake Cable Commission("Commission")which is a joint commission
established by a Joint and Cooperative Agreement dated August 24, 2007 ("Agreement") under the
provisions of Minnesota Statutes 238.08 and 471.59 as amended. The Agreement creating the
Commission was entered into by the cities of Forest Lake, Scandia and Columbus and these three
cities continue to be Members of the Commission. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein
shall have the meanings given them in the Agreement.
We have been informed that the City of Scandia and perhaps the City of Columbus are dissatisfied
with either or both of (1) the operations of the Commission and (2) the expense attendant to
participation in the Commission by each such City. Accordingly, the City of Scandia desires to
consider withdrawing from or dissolving the Commission. Therefore, as you requested, this letter
addresses the mechanisms for attempting to do so. I will also try to set out some of the
considerations which might be pertinent to the Council's consideration of this action although as of
this date I have not reviewed the existing or proposed new franchise agreement or any other of the
ongoing matters under consideration by the Commission which relate to the City of Scandia.
DISCUSSION
As we discussed, the City's stated goal can be accomplished in one of two ways: (1) withdrawal
from the Commission or(2) dissolution of the Commission.
A. Withdrawal. Article X of the Agreement deals with the mechanism for the City of Scandia to
withdraw from the Commission. The benefit to proceeding in this fashion is that no other
City's approval or similar action is required for Scandia to withdraw from the Commission.
However, there is a significant downside to utilizing this mechanism in that a two (2) year
advance written notice must be given to the other member municipalities prior to the City of
26357 Forest Boulevard,Suite 6 �P.O.Box 807 •Wyoming,MN 55092 �(651)462-0206 �Fax:(651)462-3309
www.millerstevens.com
Anne Hurlburt, City Administrator
July 10, 2012
Page 3
4. The City's ability to gear up and staff up to handle oversight of the now local franchise
agreement for the provision of cable services in Scandia. This presents a cost certainly
and perhaps a time delay which should be considered in determining the most appropriate
course of action in moving forward with this matter. This is of particular concern with
respect to governmental access to and the overall availability of PEG and similar
channels. As a smaller used, Scandia may not have the same bargaining authority as the
Commission.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the contents of this letter or the attached resolution
please don't hesitate to contact me at your convenience.
Very truly yours, ,
MILLER& STEVENS,P.A.
/s/Thomas F.Miller
T'homas F. Miller
TFM:sg
Enclosures
���22��2
Page 2 of 2
• There are advantages to working together as the cable fianchise comes up for renewal. The
needs of the community,improving service and technology,and possible enhancements to the
financing for public access will all need to be considered.
• Over time the leadership,management and talent needed for success of the FLCC have not
been present at the same time. The current void in management must be addressed by the
FLCC.
• The FLCC and its staff will need to develop hvst and good working relationships,which were
damaged by recent issues concerning the potential move of its facilities and deparhire of the
Access Coordinator.
� The FLCC needs a work plan to move it through the current crises,to improve operating
procedures and policies and to address the management and staffing issues.
• Once those issues are addressed,there may be advantages to expanding to include other
communities(such as Wyoming)which may bring additional resources.
� The FLCC may need to more actively engage with the school district now that the Ranger 20
station has become such an important part of public access.
� The FLCC may also need to open communications with U.S. Cable. In the past a
representative attended meetings,but not recently.
��������
JU� i � ��12
----_____—__. .��__�-.��r_. ..,,� z_ � ..s .., . � �.._-.,�...���_ �
�ITY CA(�tDI,A � � �
Lakes Area Comm ��nrsr�
� �� Cable Channels LATV 10 and Ranger 20
Brought to you by the Forest Lake Cable Commission
Studio and office located at 24260 Greenway Ave. N. Suite C, Forest Lake,MN 55025
Phone: 651-464-1142 Faac: 651-464-8546 Website: latvten.com
. __ N_�.-...._ _...� _ . _ t�.,�„-..�,,..�.,.,:a.,.r�.:�..,�...:�,a... ,�. _..�.. ..,�,,,..��;.�.::�,..�.�.,,-
Report to the City Of Scandia
By Sarah Chatwin,Access Coordinator,Lakes Area Community Television.
Dear Mr. Mayor and Councilmembers,
I started in January of this year and work part-time reporting directly to the Forest Lake Cable
Commission,a joint powers organization established by Cities of Columbus, Forest Lake, and
Scandia. The joint powers organization is responsible for regulating Lakes Area Community TV.
The joint powers have two representatives from each city, so there is equal representation.
I understand that you are considering the possibility of pulling out of the joint powers. I hope this
will not take place. For many, many reasons.
The First reason -We are a community station for all the communities!
It would extrernely unfortunate if cities decided to just film their own meetings. We do this now and
we take it very seriously—filming city meetings should be and is our most important shoot. We have
good,reliable people to do this and the necessary equipment. With franchise renewal we are hoping
to provide even better content with the possibility of upgraded equipment for each city hall.
But we do much more for this community —we promote partnerships, togetherness and outreach.
People want to know what is going on in their area—Columbus,Forest Lake and Scandia, and we
provide this service on the web and on the channels.
As communities we have LATV channel 10,where we air govemment meetings and post them on
demand on the website. We promote all the communities throughout the area by airing positive
community happenings, events and public service announcements.
Citizens can find out about events in all three cities—by checking our website or watching the
channels. They can go to Scandia Taco Daze or Gammelgarden Museum or Meister's classic car
show with their family. Our station signal currently reaches approx. 4500 households in the area.
Working with the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce we let citizens know about businesses in
the communities. We have aired segments on Scandia Cafe,Meisters and Scandia Heating and
Plumbing. Finally,we also air church services. This really benefits those not able to attend—seniors,
especially, count on this programming.
On Ranger 20 we promote our area schools including Scandia Elementary. Families in Scandia-
their kids may attend St. Peters, Lakes Intemational, and later the junior highs and the high school.
People like to watch and see all the great things these schools are doing. We promote this whole area
as having great schools for growing and leaming. **We know that citizens reside and remain in the
area when they are satisfied and excited about their children's schools. Citizens can follow the
school board meetings on the web, can watch u-tube videos and can find out about events in the
schools. They can also purchase DVDs of all our community and educational programming.
We also partnered with area first responders and the high school on a very worthy anti-drinking and
driving show. The Mock car Crash show was shown to every junior and senior in the entire high
school. To kids that you know and live in this area! We have this program up on our website for
families to view. This show has been nominated for a MACTA(Minnesota Association of
Community Telecommunications Administrators)community television award. We worked with
local businesses and got sponsorship to provide this DVD to other area schools, the YSB, and local
driver's education programs for example. We are also planning to have copies available at city halls
for families to come and obtain a free copy of this valuable DVD.
#6—Acting as a liaison between the cities and Midcontinen�
Explain call from citizens and petition. The station also fields calls from area citizens about cable,
channels, station programming and access.
#7—We have a history,we have recorded yours!
This station has served the area since 1985. We have an historical archive of DVD programming—of
local past events that have occurred in the area. We are established. What will happen to this
library?
What does the City of Scandia provide financially?
The City of Scandia gives its franchise fees,received from Midcontinent Communications,to the
station. This past month (June)the City received$660 from Midcontinent. (This amount fluctuates
depending on subscribership.) Using this as an approximate amount for the year, then, Scandia will
provide the station with approximately$7,920 to operate.
We have a current 2012 budget of$169,925. $16,000 of this has been included from our savings to
pay for franchise renewal this year.
From Midcontinent, our station receives PEG Fees for having an access station. This is based on the
number of cable subscribers in the area. We receive 70 cents per subscriber. Subscribership has been
up in Scandia for the past three months. Currently there are 201 subscribers, so we received$140
directly from Midcontinent. Only the station can receive PEG fees to operate a local access station—
a city cannot.
Remember,we serve all three cities by operating an extensive website of government meetings on
demand, community videos and public service announcements. You do not have to be a cable
subscriber to view the information on this site. We hope to provide more content directly to a city's
website in the future, if requested. Another goal is to have our programming schedule for both
channels printed in the paper. To do this we would look at business sponsorship for our TV guide.
***********�***************************************�*****************************
Please, I ask that you take great consideration before moving forward.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you so much.
Sarah Chatwin
651-464-1142, cell: 651-245-0557
August 24, 2007
7pINT AND COOPERA.TIVE AGREEMENT
rOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
The p1rties to this Agreement are government�l units of the State of Minnesota. This
Agreement supersedes any prior Agreeinent between the pariies covering the establishn�ent of fl
Cable Cornmunications Commission and is made pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §23$.OS and
§471.59, as amended.
I, pURPOSE
Tl�e genera] purpose of this Agreement is to establish an organization to monitor the
operations and aciivities of cable communications and related eommunications rnatters,provide
coordination of administration, enforcement and renewal of the fxanchises of the Members, and
to conduct such otl�er activities authorized herein as may be necessary to protect the interests of
the Members and its citizens with respect to the delivery of cable communications and related
com�nunications matters.
II. NAME
The name of the organization is th Forest Lake Cable Cominission.
III. DEFINITIONS
5ECT10N 1. Dc�nitions. For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms, phrases,
�vords and their derivations shall have the meanings given herein. When not inconsistent witli the
context, �vords used in the present tense include the future,words in the plural number include
the singular number, and words in the singular number include the plural number. The word
, �
10162I39v5 1 1 "
Council of that municipality and the other a qualified voter residing within the municipality. If a
Director is a City Council member when appointed but subsequently ceases to be a City Counci]
member prior to the expiration of the Director's tertn, the Member shall have the option to either
allow said Director to serve out the remainder of their appointed term or appoint a sitting
member of its City Council to serve out the remainder of the Director's term. When the City
Council of a Member appoints its Directors, it shall give notice of their appointments to the
Commission. No#ices shall inciude the name and mailing address of the Director which shall be
deemed to be the official name and address of tliat Director for the purpose of giving any notice
rec�uired under this Agreement.
SECTION 2. Term. Each Director shall be appointed for a term of two (2)years. A
Director shall serve at the pleasure of his or her City Council,
SECTION 3. Voting. There shall be no voting by proxy. All votes must be cast in
pei•son at Cornmission meetings by the Director or Directors. Each Director shall be entitled to
one {1)vote. A Director shall not be eligible to vote on behalf of his or her Member
Municipality during the time that said municipality is in default on any contribution or payment
to the Commission. In the absence of one Director of a Member City from a meeting or the
abstention of one Director from voting, the Director of that Member City that is present may cast
all of the votes of that Member City. Abstentions by both Directors from a Member shall not be
considered authorized votes cast.
SECTION 4. Compensation. Directors shall serve without compensation from the
Com�nission, but this shall not prevent a Member from compensating its Directors if
compensation by that Member is otherwise authorized by law.
1016839v� �
VII. MEETINGS
SECTION 1. By-Laws. The Commission shall adopt By-Laws, consistent with the
provisions of this Agreement, governing its procedures including time,place, notice
requirements, and fi•equency of its regular meetings,the procedure for calling special meetings
and other matters as are required by this Agreement.
SECTION 2. By-Law Amendments. The Commission may amend ihe By-Laws from
time to time. Amendments to the By-Laws may be adopted by a majority vote. The
Commission shall take no action to amend the By-Laws without ten(10) days prior written
notice to each Director. An amendment to the By-Laws shall be filed with each Member and
said By-Laws shall not be effective as amended until the seventeenth (17th) day following tt�e
filing of said amendment with the Members. An amended By-Law shall be deemed to have been
fifed on the day said By-Law is either delivered to ihe City offices of the Member or deposited in
a United States mailbox in an envelope addressed to the City offices of the Member.
SECTION 3. Voting/Quorum. The presence of four(4)Directors shall constitute a
quorum of ihe Commission. Na business shall be conducted without a quorum. Unless
otherwise provided in this Agreement, no action shall be taken unless a quorum is present and
the action is voted for by a majority of the total votes cast by the Directors present and voting at
the Commission meeting, except that less than a majority may adjourn a meeting.
VIII. POWERS, RIGHTS, AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION
SECTION 1. Franchising Authority. The Membex Municipalities shall retain their
fi•v�chising authority to the extent that such authority is not delegated to the Commission in this
Agreement.
5
1016839v5
SECTION 6. Administration/Enforcement. The Commission shall administer and
enforce the cable communications franchise ordinance or it may delegate the fi-anchise ordinance
enforcement and administration to its Members.
SECTION 7. Rates. To the extent allowable under federal and state law,the
Commission shall review and approve or disapprove changes in rates charged by the cable
communications company. '
SECTION 8. Contracts. The Commission may make such contracts as are reasonably
necessary to accomplish the purposes of the Commission, including, but not limited to, contracis
related to the provision of community access programming.
SECTION 9. Consuitants, The Commission may retain the services of technical
consultanis and legal counsel to advise it in accomplishing the purposes of the Comn�ission.
SECTION l0. Advisory Committee. The Commission may appoini an advisory
commiltee to make recommendations to it on cable communications. The duties of such
committee shall be set forth by the Commission.
SECTION 11. Gifts/Grants. The Commission may accept gifts,apply for and use
grants and may enter into agreements required in connection therewith, and may hold, use, and
dispose of money or property received as a gift or grant in accordance with the terms thereof.
SECTION 12. Legislative Activities. The Commission may submit written comments
on rules, regulations, or legislation regarding cable communications proposed by or before the
Federal Communications Commission, other regulatory agencies, the Minnesota Legislature, or
any other state or federal body. The Commission may also direct its representatives to appear
and testify on cable communications before any governmental body.
i016839v5 7
any revenues obtained from ordinance amendments, variances, or other extraordinary items, shall
not be considered part of the annual budget unless approved by tl�e Commission. The annual
budget shall be submitted to the Member City Councils on or before August 1 of each year. No
. budget shall become effective unless approved by resolution of the City Councils of the Member
Municipalities. The proposed budget must be approved by each Member City Council within
forty-five (45) days afier its submission to the Mefnber Municipalities. A Municipality having
an objection to the Comrnission's proposed budget shall submit any such objection in writing to
the Commission within the forty-f ve (45)day period, and failure to do so shall be deemed a
positive vote for the proposed budget.
SECTION 3, The Commission shall contract wi#h one of the Members to administer the
funds of the Commission, perform clerical functions for the Commission such as, accounting,
record keeping, maintaining of accounis, bank accounts and perform other administrafive duties
which the Commission may specify. All funds of the Commission shal] be handled in this matter
and the Commission shaf] not coilect monies or disburse funds on its own behalf. All
expenditures of the Commission shall be made by and to the Member which contracts with the
Commission for fiscal management. Such Member shal] serve in this capacity for a period of
two years at which time the Member may agree to continue for another term or another Mernber
must assume the role on behalf of the Coinmission.
SECTION 4. Expenditures. The Cominission may expend its funds as it deems
necessary and appropriate pursuant to this A�reement. The Commission will work with the
Member assigned to handle the Commission's accounting functions when disbursing funds.
SECTION 5. Annual Audit. The Commission's financial books and records sliall be
audited or reviewed by an independeni financial �dvisor and approved by the Commission at
1016839v� 9
I
Commission that may be located in the Withdrawing Member's City Nall for cab3ecasting City
Council meetings. Except as provided in Section 3 of this Article X, a Withdrawing Member
shall not be entitled to any other assets of the Commission,use of the Commission's equipment
and facilities nor access to any future programming provided by the Commission.
SECTION 2. Withdrawal Process. A Member may withdraw from the Commission by
giving to the Chair of the Commission a certified eopy of the resolution of such Withdrawing
Member's City council indicating its intent to withdraw from the Commission (hereinaf�er such
notice is referred to as a"W�thdrawal Notice"). Upon receipt of the Withdrawa3 Notice,the .
Chair of the Commission shall forward a copy of the Withdrawal Notice to eacl� of tlie Directors.
The withdrawal shall become effective two years from the date such Withdrawal Notice is given
(the"Withdrawal Date"). Any attempted withdrawal by a Member which is not done in
compliance with the provisions or this Section 2 shall not be effective and shal] not relieve such
Member of its respective obligations to the Commission set forth herein.
SECTION 3. Property Interests of Members on Withdrawal. From and after the
Withdrawal Date,the Withdrawii�g Member shal] no longer be entitled to representation on the
Commission or to any future assets of the Commission, except for: (i) its right to receive its
proportionate share of the proceeds from any subsequent sale of the real property and building
owned and used by the Commission as of the date of this Agreement, if any (collectively,
"Property"),as such distribution is calculated a��d limited by the provisions of this Section 3; (ii)
its proportionate share of future Franchise Fees and other programming support and equipment
grant funding described in Section l of this Article X above; and (iii) its respective rights to any
equipment provided by the Commission to the Withdrawing Member as described in Section 1 of
this Article X above.
Jl
1016839v5 �
accordance with Article X1I, Section 2. In the event the actual sales price of the Propeity is less
tl�an the Withdrawing FMV, the actua] sales price shall be substituted for ihe Withdrawing FMV
in calculating Net DistributaUle Sales Proceeds.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Withdrawing Member shall continue its obligations
and maintain its proportionate share of liability it has under any promissory note, guaranty,
mortgage or other security insirument in connection with the Commission's indebtedness
resulting from the purchase of the Property, unless otherwise agreed to by the respective ]ender
or secured party. Upon wiihdrawal from the Commission,the Withdrawing Member shall have
no authority and shall make no detern�inations regarding the sale of the Pxoperty or the price
related thereto.
XI. DISSOLUTION
SECTION l. Dissolution of the Commission. Tlie Commission shall be terminated and
dissolved by mutual agreement by two-thirds (213)of the Member Municipalities (i.e., if there
are three(3)Members, two (2)must agree to dissolution).
SECTION 2. Distribution of Assets. Upon dissolution of the Commission, all
remaining assets of the Con�mission, after payment of obligations, shall be distributed among the
then current Meinbers in proportion to the percentage interest of each then current Member based
on their percentage capital contribution of the total contributions made to the Commission and in
accordance with procedures established by the Commission. Any withdrawn Membeis shall be
entitled to sucl� property interests as pennitted pursuant to Article X. The Cornmission shall
continue to exist after dissolution for such period, no longer ihan six (6) tnonths,as is necessary
to wind up its �ffairs, but for no other plupose,
1016839v5 �3
. �
f
� i
�.G'���.. ',� ;� `���'� By �� ✓
Its: Manager/Clerk ]ts: Mayor
DATED: �I r�O��b�) C1TY OF COLUMBUS
' ��i.... � ��, g y c:��c.v
Its; M n ger/Clerk Its: Mayor
1016839vS �5
.
�' 1 -J
�` �,.� �i-�� ��.
l., \�f�. _..�. .J
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I�J�J������
Memo
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Anne Hurlburt,City Administrator
cc: Tom Miller,City Attorney
Date: Juty 26,2012
Re: PEG(Public/Education/Government)Access Review
Forest Lake Cable Commission(FLCC)
Attached you will find the following relating to the FLCC PEG Acc�ss Review:
• Memo Dated July 23,2012 from Sarah Chatwin,Access Coord'viator,Lakes Area
Community Television
• Letter Dated July 18,2012 from Holly Hansen Consulting,transmitting PEG Access
Review Report
• PEG Access Review
• Letter Dated July 19,2012 from Holly Hansen Consulting,follow-up to presentation
of PEG Review to FLCC
� E-mail Dated July 18,2012 from Brian Grogan,Moss&Barnett,to Sarah Chatwin
At the July 17 meeting,the Council tabled discussion of the City's participation in the FLCC until you
had an opporlunity to review the PEG Access Review. Because this is a lot of material,I wanted to
get it to you as soon as possible. It is likely that this matter will be on the agenda for your regular
meeting on August 21,unless the Council wants to schedule time at a work session or special meeting
to discuss it at some other time.
. . �
1 1
Lakes Area Community Television '
��� Cable Channels LATV 10 and Ranger 20
Brought to you by the Forest Lake Cable Commission
Studio and office located at 24260 Greenway Ave.N. Suite C, Forest Lake, MN 55025
Phone: 651-464-1142 Fax: 651-464-8546 Website: latvten.com
July 23, 2012
Dear city administrators,
In preparation for our franchise renewal negotiations with Midcontinent Communications, the Forest
Lake Cable Commission (FLCC) retained Holly Hansen as a consultant to conciuct a PEG (Public
Education Government) Access Review. This review was presented to the Forest Lake Cable
Commission board on Wednesday evening, July 18th. Holly Hansen, presented the document in
person, discussing it in detail with the Commission.
Following-up on discussions, Ms. Hansen also wrote a separate letter to the Commission to address
questions following her presentation.
I have an electronic version of the PEG Access review. It is attached. I have also attached the
follow-up letter from Ms. Hansen. Finally, there a letter Ms. Hansen wrote in relation to the possible
dissolution of the joint powers and the effect on the PEG Assessment. This letter is also attached.
Many hours of staff time were spent gathering the necessary information to provide to Ms. Hansen so
she could do her research. Ms. Hansen also conducted interviews, met with staff and the
Commission. With the Access Coordinator she toured city halls, the school district office, Century
Junior High and the Forest Lake High School. The Access Coordinator organized government,
education and community focus groups for Ms. Hansen.
Ms. Hansen is an experienced cable consultant who is familiar with the issues facing local cities in
the cable franchise renewal process. Cable franchises are long-term contracts and decisions made in
the renewal process have lasting effects on the community. A well-designed PEG needs assessment
ensures that the cable franchise renewal process is representative of the community, examines and
documents the community's needs and interests, anticipates the future, and provides a solid basis for
franchise renewal negotiations.
If you have any questions about this PEG Access Review report to the Forest Lake Cable
Commission, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Sarah Chatwin
Access Coordinator,
Lakes Area Community Television
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Holly Hansen Consulting � � si •
• � • •
• � �
• �
•
July 18, 2012
I
Forest Lake Cable Commission
Lakes Area Television Studio
24260 Greenway Avenue North, Suite C
Forest Lake, MN 55025
Re: PEG Access Review
Dear Commissioners: i
i
i
Enclosed is the PEG Access Review Report, which I hope you will find useful in
your franchise negotiations with MidContinent Communications.
This Report compiles the results of my research, which included reviewing the
existing franchise and other documents, gathering input from the community
through focus groups,assessing equipment and facilities through visits to the City
Halls of Columbus, Forest Lake, and Scandia. Site visits to the Forest Lake
School District Board Room,High School, and Century Jr. High were also
conducted. The FLCC/LATV facilities and equipment were reviewed,as well as
production methods,program samples,and programming data.
Equipment research included Intemet-based research,discussions with video �
professionals,vendors, and an engineer. The equipment recommendations that ;
are made in the report are the result of the findings from the site visits,the needs �
and interests expressed in the focus groups, and the equipment research. i
I
It is my overall impression that the staff at FLCC/LATV is dedicated and doing
its best to serve a wide variety of community and educational programming
needs, with very limited staffing and equipment. Implementation of the �
equipment recommendations would streamline workflow and improve quality and I
reliability for production and playback. The video quality will improve whether
one is viewing FLCC/LATV programs via the PEG channels,the Internet,or a �
DVD. �
5440 Vernon Avenue South #131 . Minneapolis, MN 55436 . 612.207.8709 •hollymhansen@comcast.net
i
Forest Lake Cable Commission
Page 2
July 18, 2012
Since this study began,I understand that there have been discussions and
concerns regarding some of the Member Cities resigning from the Forest Lake
Cable Commission. If this were to occur,it would alter the recommendations
contained in the Report,especially with regard to equipment expenditures. It is
beyond the scope of this project to anticipate or project the variety of possible
scenarios that could develop should the FLCC membership change.
To continue the benefits that the FLCC provides to the community through the
programs LATV produces about community and school events,local businesses,
and city and school board meetings,the FLCC/LATV must be adequately funded.
The continued membership in the FLCC of the cities of Columbus, Forest Lake,
and Scandia will ensure that the community needs and interests represented in this
report will be met and that all of the citizens and community organizations will
benefit from this community asset.
The FLCC has a dedicated staff that is trying to improve programming and
service to the cities, schools and community-at-large with limited funds,and it
will need the full support of all of the FLCC Member Cities to be able to realize
the potential that is envisioned in tivs report.
'n rely,
�
Holl M. sen
Enclosure(])
REPORT
FOREST LAKE
CABLE COM MISSION
PEG Access Review
Submitted 7-18-2012
Holly Hansen Consulting
5440 Vernon Avenue South#13l
Edina,MN 55436
612-207-8709
HoIIyMHansen(a�comcast.net
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVESUMMARY .................................................................................................1
DOCUMENTREVIEW......................................................................................................4
EQUIPMENT AND FACILITY REVIEW.........................................................................5
PEGPROGRAMMING.....................................................................................................10
FOCUSGROUPS..............................................................................................................12
FLCCGROUP INTERVIEW............................................................................................16
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS: CITY HALLS..........................................................................17
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS: FLCC/LATV ...........................................................................21
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS: EDUCATIONAL ACCESS....................................................25
PEGCAPITAL NEEDS SUMMARY...............................................................................26
NEEDS AND INTERESTS: FRANCHISE RENEWAL.................................................27
CONCLUSION.........................................................................:........................................29
EXHIBITA: DROP LIST................................................................................................31
EXHIBIT B: PROGRAM ORIGINATION LIST............................................................33
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
EXECUTIVE SU M MARY
In preparation for its franchise renewal negotiations with MidContinent Communications,
the Forest Lake Cable Commission(FLCC)retained Holly Hansen as a consultant to
conduct a PEG (Public, Educational, and Governmental)Access Review. The FLCC
franchises are held individually by the cities of Columbus, Forest Lake, and Scandia, and
expire on or abut November 10, 2012.
Under federal law, local franchising authorities can require cable operators to provide
PEG channels, equipment, and facilities for local programming for and about the
community. The purpose of this PEG Access Review is to identify community needs and
interests regarding PEG and to provide the FLCC and Member Cities with information
they can use to negotiate a successful franchise renewal with MidContinent that provides
benefits to the cable subscribers and to the community.
The PEG Access Review conducted by Ms. Hansen included a document review of the
cable franchise, FLCC Joint Powers Agreement and By Laws, FLCC budgets, equipment
inventory, programming statistics, DVDs of city meetings community events, school
activities.
Ms. Hansen conducted three focus groups to gather information and opinions on topics
related to the franchise renewal and FLCC. One group consisted of representatives from
local government, one from educational institutions, and one from community groups.
She interviewed the FLCC staff, and met with the FLCC commissioners.
Equipment and facilities reviews were conducted at the FLCC facility,the three city
halls, the Forest Lake High School, Century Jr. High, and the Forest Lake School District
Board room. Ms. Hansen conducted equipment research through the Internet and
discussions with equipment vendors, video professionals, and an engineer..
General Findings
Focus Groups
The participants in the focus groups like living in the Forest Lake area because it is an
active, close-knit community that is also close to the amenities of the Twin Cities. Local
government officials, educational representatives, and community organizations need to
communicate with the general public and targeted groups and use a variety of inethods to
do so.
There is a strong interest in seeing their city meetings, community and school events on
TV, and citizens and students like seeing themselves on the local channels. There is an
interest in having meetings shown live on TV and also on the Web. Many areas in the
FLCC area cannot receive cable television, however, because they live in areas of very
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low density(e.g. 2—20 acres). Others in the focus groups could receive cable, but had
dropped it due to technical problems with the service and/or the cost.
Franchise Review
The current franchise requires a number of city and school locations be capable of
program origination, which means they should be able to transmit live and/or recorded
programming. No one in the focus groups or interviews was aware of this capability and
if does not exist, it could be a franchise compliance issue for the FLCC to pursue in
franchise negotiations. A similar situation exists with a number of public buildings that
are supposed to have a free drop and complimentary cable service.
The franchise requires a PEG fee of$.70 per subscriber/per month to be paid to the
FLCC to support PEG access. The franchise also contains a provision that this fee could
have been increased by the Consumer Price Index(CPI)on the fifth and tenth
anniversaries at the request of the FLCC. This was never done, and no one on the current
FLCC knows why this was not enacted. Had these increases taken place,the current
PEG fee would be approximately $.99 per subscriber today.
FLCC/LATV
Because funding has been very limited, much of the equipment used by the FLCC is
generally old, out-of-date from a technology perspective, and in poor condition.
Equipment for all of the video production systems at FLCC (field production, editing,
and playback)need to be replaced now. New equipment would also enable FLCC/LATV
staff,contractors and volunteers to produce programs using more time-efficient
production techniques such as a multi-camera remote studio format. T'his would also
improve program quality and could be used for community events, school concerts,
sports, and local interview and issue shows. A seamless digital workflow would also be a
result of new eyuipment;this too, will save time spent on converting formats which now
takes hours, and essentially reduce that time to minutes. A new playback system would
further improve the reliability, look and quality of LATV-l0 and Ranger-20 and enable
programs to get on the channels and on the web much faster than is presently possible.
City Halls
There have been audio problems with meeting coverage for all three city halls. This is
due to a variety of causes, including poor acoustics, equipment failures, improper
operation of eyuipment by the videographer, and use of the camera mic instead of the
available sound system and/or microphones. Meetings are covered with a single camera,
making it difficult for home viewers to discern who is speaking, see information on
Power Point presentations, etc. A multi-camera system is recommended for each city
hall that includes remote-controlled cameras, a document camera, a video switcher,
recording equipment,and equipment that can also send a live stream to the city website,
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Cable Company Issues
Concerns were expressed about the quality and reliability of the cable system,the
apparent lack of marketing by MidContinent,and the cost for cable TV services.
Technical quality across the cable system appears uneven, as some focus group
participants had experienced outages and poor quality,whereas others did not have the
same types of problems. Several participants had dropped cable service due to quality
issues, unreliable Internet service, and cost.
Outages have also adversely affected LATV-10 and Ranger-20; these have occurred
approximately five times since January. Some of these outages have been planned by
MidContinent as they work on the cable system, but they have not always notified FLCC
staff in advance.
MidContinent has had little communication with the FLCC and has not shared
information regarding its plans for system repairs, upgrade, marketing, etc. The FLCC
would like an up-to-date cable system, more subscribers, and more accountability from
MidContinent.
Based on the response from the focus groups, it appears that drops to public buildings and
program origination sites required by the existing franchise may not have been installed,
which would be a franchise non-compliance issue the FLCC should address in its renewal
negotiations.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
DOCUMENT REVIEW
Documents and Media Reviewed
Documents: MidContinent Subscriber/PEG fee reports
Cable Television Franchise Agreement MidContinent Channel Line up
Joint Powers Agreement MidContinent subscriber bill
Forest Lake Cable Commission By Laws
FLCC Access Rules and Scheduling Guidelines Media:
FLCC Program Compliance Form Website: LATV
Programming information for LATV-10 and Website: City of Columbus
Ranger020: 20l 0-2012 Website: City of Forest Lake
FLCC/LATV Equipment Inventory Website: City of Scandia
FLCC 2012 Budget
FLCC Annual Report dated June 30,2009 DVDs of city meetings,school and community
Access Coordinator Reports: 2/2012-6/2012 events, and sports
Overview of Findings
The document review provided an opportunity to become familiar with the FLCC/LATV
operation and issues, and to formulate discussion topics for the Government, Education,
and Community Focus Groups. Some highlights of the review are noted below.
Cable Television Agreement
■ Three PEG channels are required;two are active(Channels ]0& 20).
■ The franchising authority can request an additional PEG channel if the
other three channels are in use.
■ A PEG fee of$0.70 per subscriber was set. The FLCC could ask for an
increase based on the Consumer Price Index in Year 5 and Year 10 of the
franchise. No increase was requested or implemented.
■ Technical capability for non-voice return capabilities is required. It is
unknown whether the system meets this requirement.
■ Exhibit A lists public facilities that are to receive free drops and service; it
is unclear which of these institutions are being served.
■ Exhibit B lists public facilities that are to have"programming origination
capability." No one in the focus groups or on the FLCC is aware of any of
these locations having that capability.
Websites
■ The City of Columbus has outdated information about U.S. Cable and has
not updated to MidContinent. There is no link to the LATV website.
■ The Cities of Forest Lake and Scandia have links to the LATV website.
■ Ranger-20 has a separate website address from LATV,which links to the
LATV website. Since Ranger-20 is not a separate organization, it is
unclear why Ranger20.com has a separate web domain.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
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EQUIPMENT AND FACILITY REVIEW
City Halls and School District Board Room
Meetings for all three cities (Columbus, Forest Lake, and Scandia) and the Forest Lake
School Board are covered using a single camera on a tripod and dolly that enables the
camera operator to move around the room and get different angles during a meeting. All
meetings are recorded using a SDI (standard digital interface)card; there is no back-up
video recording that is made, and the meetings are not cablecast live. The camcorder that
is being used to record government meetings was purchased in 201 l by the FLCC and the
meetings are recorded by freelancers that are paid for by the FLCC. The cities of
Columbus and Scandia and the Forest Lake School District do not pay for their meeting
coverage; the City of Forest Lake receives some meeting coverage at no fee and pays to
have additional coverage of committee meetings. The School District is considering
technology upgrades to its board room, which could include a video projector and a
"smart board." The City of Forest Lake has discussed building a new city hall/city
complex, but this is not definite and is in the future.
The quality of the video production for meetings is limited due to single camera
production method. For example:
■ It is difficult to get a shot of a presenter other than the back or sometimes
the side of his/her head.
■ The camera is used to shoot the screen in power point presentations which
results in poor quality and legibility.
■ A speaker on the council or board is not usually shown on a close up,
which can make it difficult for viewers to tell who is speaking.
Most cities use multi-camera systems to record their council meetings. These systems
also include graphics capabilities and connections to computers, DVD players, and other
devices for power point presentations, videos, and other applications. These meetings are
also generally live on the cable channel and the city web site. As noted earlier, none of
the city meetings are presently cablecast live or webcast live. This is due to the lack of
equipment that could make this possible, and the lack of webstreaming services for the
cities' websites. If city meetings could be produced live or"like live"(which means that
the meeting would not require any post-production editing, but would be complete with
graphics, multiple video sources, etc. during the meeting)the meetings would not only
get on the cable channel and the city web site faster, it would also take less staff time for
FLCC. This issue is further addressed under the Recommendations and PEG Capital
Needs sections of this report.
In addition to the video issues noted above, all of the meetings have experienced audio
problems of different types. These problems have various causes,which include:
■ There is no sound system at Scandia Council Chambers.
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Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
■ Excessive HVAC air-handling noise at the Forest Lake City Hall, which
is picked up by the microphones. In addition,the audio mixer is not
automatic,which means that all of the microphones are on all of the time,
which adds to the noise created by the HVAC system.
■ There have been problems with cables not working properly at times.
■ The camera is not always set on the proper input setting(line or mic,
depending on the situation).
■ The camera operator(s) sometimes use the camera mic instead of
connecting to the audio system.
The City of Columbus has the best sound system in the facilities reviewed, which should
provide the best sound quality for meetings when the camcorder is properly connected to
the sound system, cables are in good conditions, etc.
Currently,the audio for School District meetings is recorded using the camcorder
microphone. The audio of these meetings could be significantly improved if an audio
feed was provided to the camcorder from the School District's audio system in its board
room. All this would require is a cable that would connect the camcorder at the back of
the room to the audio system at the front of the room.
To improve its audio,the City of Forest Lake should have its council chambers HVAC
reviewed by a HVAC company to reduce the air pressure and noise coming from the air
vents located directly behind the council dais. The City should also consider an
automatic audio mixer to improve the overall sound quality.
The City of Scandia has no audio system. A shotgun mic is used at their meetings. A
test should be conducted to determine if the shotgun microphone is placed in the proper
position in the room. Ideally,the Scandia Chambers needs a sound system that would
include a microphone for each council member, staff, and presenters that would feed into
an automated audio mixer and room system as well as the video recording.
Forest Lake Cab/e Commission
The FLCC employs 2.5 FTEs: a .5 administrator, a .5 administrative assistant and 1.5
video production staff. The office is open Monday—Friday from 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Staff also works non-standard hours to cover events such as the 4�'of July parade and
fireworks in Forest Lake. The FLCC pays contractors to video the city meetings for
Forest Lake, Columbus, and Scandia, as well as the Forest Lake School District board
meetings.
The FLCC rents a facility that is office-type space that is located in Wyoming. The space
has a large garage area that is used as a studio, although it has no air conditioning, limited
heating,and poor acoustics. Playback for LATV-10 and Ranger-20 has been moved
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from the garage to the office area for better climate control. The layout of the office
space is not ideal for general FLCC staff office and editing functions, and the space that
is used as a studio would need considerable investment in HVAC, electrical upgrades,
lighting, and acoustics to make it a viable studio.
Much of the FLCC equipment is old, outdated, and in poor condition. Equipment
malfunctions have caused programs or electronic bulletin board messages to "freeze"on
the channels, meetings take a significant amount of time to edit due to the length of time
it takes the editing computer/system to capture the video so that it can be edited,which
generally only involves putting a title at the beginning of the meeting. More time is
required to copy the meeting to a DVD so it can be played back on the channel. What
should take an hour or less from start to finish takes the better part of a day, due to the
type, age, and condition of eyuipment the FLCC has.
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ROOM
The playback equipment that is used to control Ranger-20 is from 1985 and should have
been replaced years ago. The equipment for LATV-10 is from 2010. Both channels are
played back from DVDs. The playback system should be updated to a computer/server
based system, which is more time efficient to program, more reliable, and better quality.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Repon: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Despite the many equipment issues that the FLCC staff face, they produce a variety of
programs that are watched and valued by the community. This was especially noted in
the Educational and Community focus groups.
Forest Lake School District
In addition to the School Board's meeting facilities,the studio at Century Jr. High was
reviewed, as well as the studio and facilities at Forest Lake High School. The junior high
has a small but nicely appointed studio with a green wall and, control room with
computers, and two cameras on tripods. During the school year, students produce a daily
news show that is shown throughout the school.
The Forest Lake High School has a large video production studio and control room that is
not currently used for video production. The High School offers courses in Mass
Communications, which include journalism and video production. Students used to
produce a daily news program, but this effort has been abandoned due to problems with
the school's closed circuit television system that make viewing impossible. The High
School also has a student video club but has no advisor, so it has not been as active as in
the past.
The High School studio has a large assortment of video production equipment, but for the
most part it does not appear to be used. Some of it is out-of-date, other equipment is
usable (lights,tripods, cables, monitors,possibly some cameras and audio mixers, etc.).
Without completing a detailed inventory of all of the school's equipment and systems,
which is not part of this project, it is difficult to say precisely what is needed. In a
general sense,the school needs to update its analog video equipment to a digital format.
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Report: PEG Needs Assessment
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PEG PROGRAMMING
Overview
Programs are played on the two access channels,LATV-l0 and Ranger-20,24 hours per
day, seven days per week. Each channel uses DVDs with a master controller to schedule
and play back the programs. Programming is primarily produced by FLCC/LATV staff
with some assistance by contractors and volunteers.
LA7l/-10
The programming on LATV-10 includes City meetings,community events, church
services, programs about local issues, etc.
Ranger-20
Ranger-20 was launched in August 30, 2010 and shows primarily Forest Lake School
District events such as sports, band concerts,choir concerts, graduations, and award
ceremonies. A few school events from St. Peter's Catholic School, Lakes International
Language Academy, and North Lakes Academy have also been shown on Channe120.
CITY MEETINGS 2010 2011 JAN-APR 2012
Hours of Meetin s b Ci
Columbus Ci Council 35 39 4
Forest Lake Ci Council 40 50 7
Scandia Ci Council 20 33 5
Forest Lake EDA,Plannin ,work sessions* 24 29 10
TOTAL HOURS 119 151 26
NUMBER OF CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Columbus Ci Council 24 20 4
Forest Lake Ci Council 24 24 7
Scandia 19 19 5
Forest Lake EDA,Plannin , work sessions* 27 24 10
TOTAL CITY MEETINGS 94 87 26
*Forest Lake pays the FLCC$SO per meeting for EDA,Planning,and Work Sessions.
NUMBER OF COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 2010 2011 JAN-APR 2012
Number of Pro rams—Channel 10 89 101 29
Number of Pro rams—Channe120 43 150 70
FL School Board Meetin s- 20 12 12 4
TOTAL 144 263 103
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Classes, Training, and Volunteers
Free classes are offered by LATV in video production, and individuals can request
training as well, If one is experienced, he/she can take a test to show proficiency and then
use the equipment to make programs. LATV pays independent contractors to cover city
meetings school board meetings,and some school and community events. These
individuals receive training updates approximately twice a year, and many of them also
volunteer for LATV productions. There are approximately 20-25 volunteers who bring
in programming from local churches, produce various programs with the assistance of
LATV staff, and/or volunteer for community and school video productions.
Community Organizations Served
The following community organizations have been served during 2010—2012 by
FLCC/LATV,who has produced videos about these groups and their activities and has
also cablecast information about them via the Channel l0 and Channe120 electronic
message boards on the channels.
Anoka County Historical Society Gammelgarden Museum in Scandia
Boy Scouts—Cubs:tours, educate Lakes Area Business Association
media badge Lakes International Language Academy
Castlewood Golf Course Lakes Life Care Center
City of Columbus MN Lymes Association
City of Forest Lake Nightmare Hollowscream Park
City of Scandia North Lakes Academy
Columbus Lions Northern Lights Car Club
Community Helping Hand Scandia Lions
Faith Lutheran Church Special Olympics
Family Pathways St. Peter's Catholic Church
FL Airport St. Peter's Catholic School
FL American Legion The FL Education Endowment Assoc.
FL Chamber of Commerce The Red Cross(Community Blood
FL Goodwill Drives)
FL Historical Society VFW Post 4210
FL Senior Center Washington County
Forest Lake Athletic Association Washington County Broadway
Forest Lake Community Education Improvement project
Forest Lake Lions Washington County Historical Society
Forest Lake Rotary Wildlife Science Center
Forest Lake School District Youth Service Bureau
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FOCUS GROUPS
Overview
Three focus groups were conducted for this project: one with representatives from the
community, one with representatives from the educational community,and one with
representatives from local government. Each group was approximately two hours in
length and a total of thirty participants attended the three groups.
The organizations represented in the groups used a number of communications methods
to reach their constituents, members, and the general public.
The most frequently mentioned communication methods included the Forest Lake Times,
Forest Lake Press, other print media such as brochures, organization websites, broad-cast
emails,word-of-mouth, phone calls, and LATV-10 and Ranger-20(LATV),
Representatives from the following organizations participated in the focus groups:
Century Jr. High Forest Lake Police
City of Columbus Former FLCC member
City of Forest Lake Gammelgarden Museum
City of Scandia Lakes Area Youth Service Bureau
Columbus Lions Lakes International Academy
Community Helping Hand LATV producer
Forest Lake Area Schools Rotary
Forest Lake Chamber St. Peter's Catholic Church
Forest Lake Community Education St. Peter's School
Forest Lake High School VFW Post 4210
Forest Lake Parks& Recreation Washington County Sheriff
Government Focus Group
Cable Company Issues
The communities of Columbus and Scandia have large lot sizes(e.g. 5-20 acres)and
properties of this size do not meet the density requirements for cable service. As a result,
there are few subscribers to cable television (200-250) in these cities. Due to the
economics of cable television infrastructure, it is unlikely that these low density areas
would be served over the next franchise term.
In addition, many participants who could receive cable television did not subscribe to it
or had dropped the service. Participants voiced complaints about the expense of cable,
billing problems, and outages. Participants stated that there were more problems now
than there had been with U.S. Cable. Outages also affected Internet service, and fast
- 12 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIvMHansenCcicomcast.net • 612,207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
reliable Internet is needed for businesses and for those who work out of their homes. One
participant questioned the viability of cable.
FLCLC/LATV is funded by franchise fees from the Member Cities and also receives
PEG Operating Support in the amount of$.70 per subscriber. The franchise fee is set by
federal law not to exceed 5%of Gross Revenues. The PEG Operating Support has not
increased since 1997; if it had kept pace with the Consumer Price Index, it would be at
$0.99 today. The possibility of increasing the PEG Operating Support was discussed and
several people expressed concern over the current cost of cable generally, and any
increase.
Issues to Address in Franchise Renewal
Lower density requirements—get more subscribers.
Line extension policy.
Need a more reliable cable system .
Want information on what areas are served by cable and MidContinent's plans to expand.
Need ability to add future public building to complimentary drop list and program
origination list.
Performance standards: restore damage to ROW,private property, bury cables in timely
manner, etc.
Justify value for the money spent.
Improve audio quality on PEG channels.
Need live City meetings.
Want more interactive points.
FLCC, Member Cities, and customers need to have advance notice of any price increases.
Want ability to use cable company DVR to record PEG channels.
Comments about FLCC/LATV-10 and Ranger-20
Need better audio.
Would like overhead document camera for meetings.
Would like direct connection for Power Point presentations.
Want live city meetings on Internet and cable.
Takes too long to get city meetings on Internet.
Remind city councils periodically on how to use microphones, etc.
Possibly start a public safety show or produce video PSAs about public safety.
Use graphics in council meetings to identify council members, etc.
People need to know when programs are on the channels.
Like the cable bulletin board and information about other cities, etc.
People like seeing themselves on TV (school events, community events, etc.).
There is a sense of connection with fellow community members.
- 13 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIyMHansen(�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Education Focus Group
Education video
The Forest Lake High School has a head end and closed circuit TV distribution on
Channel 15 in the high school. This system was installed in the late 1980's and is in poor
condition (snowy) and is no longer used. There used to be a student news show, but it is
no longer produced due to the inability to distribute the show through the high school.
High School graduations used to go live over this system, but it was not used this year
due to the poor quality. The school did stream graduation over the Internet this year.
The High School and Century Jr. High both have studios; the high school studio is not in
current use, but the Jr. High studio is active. The FL High School offers a three-level
communications curriculum that includes journalism and video instruction.
LATV/Programming and Services
Want live programming for sports, student concerts, etc.
Would like a van to produce different sports events.
LATV provides important services to the community: e.g. the mock car crash Eve l 5
Minutes . Kids really talked about this and it made a big impact on them.
Like services that LATV provides: DVD copies, records community and school events.
LATV staff is very responsive, have good ideas, and are very professional ideas.
They're awesome (LATV).
Kids like to see themselves on TV.
Continue the partnership with LATV.
LATV needs more funding.
Get the word out about LATV: e.g. Fall Kick off, Fall Open Houses, Athletic Kick Off.
Offer LATV classes through Community Ed.
Issues to Address in Franchise Renewal
Want investment in High School closed circuit infrastructure.
Want live sports and school events.
Want van for sports—live remotes.
Want better customer service from the cable technicians. Cable techs didn't know where
HS drop was,told HS that problems were due to an accident on Hwy. 97.
Want better customer service generally;people are worried that MidContinent isn't local.
Want to know what is going on with cable system.
MidContinent gave a$500 scholarship to two HS students;this was appreciated.
PEG Fee
If raised $.30, I don't think people would squawk about it.
Community is conservative; I would hedge on the conservative side.
Helps if people have an explanation (for a PEG increase).
- ]4 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIvMHansenC�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Community Focus Group
LATV/Programming and Services
LATV should create a short video other organization can put on their websites.
Got good feedback on Fall Fest(2011).
Poor audio in school concerts.
Scandia city meetings use a shotgun microphone—have poor audio.
Don't know when programs are on (LATV-10 and Ranger-20).
LATV needs increased budget, equipment.
Get more of the community involved.
Get the community on shows.
Get a consistent schedule and put it in the Forest Lake Times.
There's nothing good on (commercial)TV.
Like watching local events—it encourages people to get involved.
Need something to hand out at events(info about program schedule and DVDs).
Fosters community pride; people like to see events.
Like the (electronic)bulletin board.
Educate people about the benefits.
Need priority list for LATV—they're spread too thin.
People don't know about LATV.
Need consistency in programming.
Issues to Address in Franchise Renewal
MidContinent—get more subscribers, have more specials.
Money for a larger budget for LATV.
PEG fee of$1.40 is okay; have a trigger for a CPI increase.
Come up with a plan(FLCC).
Don't think most people will notice an increase(PEG fee).
Cities need to upgrade their audio.
Live city meetings would be great.
Want live programming for the High School.
Find out what equipment needs are.
Coordinate with schools.
Ask for higher PEG fee. Start at $1.40, go down if need to.
Cable company representative should attend FLCC meetings.
Shoot for at least$.50 increase.
People don't know how to get cable TV.
Other Comments
DirectTV goes out in storms.
Have School District liaison on FLCC board.
Have a vision, consistency (FLCC).
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Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIYMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
FLCC GROUP INTERVIEW
Overview
The consultant gave a brief presentation about the franchise renewal process and
highlighted findings from the document review,the three focus groups, staff interview,
and equipment review. The commissioners discussed issues related to these topics and
the cable franchise renewal and expressed the following goals,which have not yet been
prioritized by the FLCC, although the consultant has organized items and grouped items
with a related theme together.
FLCC Goals
ACHIEVE PRESERVE
-Accountability from cable operator -Three (3)PEG channels
- Technically up-to-date cable system -Programming: community events,
- More cable subscribers meetings, etc.
- Improved revenue through franchise -Accessibility
- Community learning about TV production
- Live city meetings
-New AV equipment - Staff—leadership
- Video server for playback
-New facility/improved facility - Good will (community and FLCC)
- Good community opinion of FLCC
- Consensus among cities
- Unified front in cable negotiations -Expertise on FLCC/continuity
- Stable budget and revenue stream - Solid, contributing commission
- Improve website—stream live meetings
- Control over daily operations(LATV)
AVOID ELIMINATE
- Getting pushed around by MidCo -One year language for drops
- Expanding services and channels until we -Illegal activities of all types
have the capability -Vulnerabilities (e.g. staffusing own
- Staff vacancies/unqualified staff computers)
-Employment issues - Outdated& broken equipment
- Wasting time
-Vulnerability of FLCC (Franchise needs
-Legal problems to contemplate what happens if JPA
disintegrates)
-Disintegration of Commission
- 16 -
Holly Hansen Consulting . HoIIyMHansenC�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
PEG CAPITAL N EEDS : CITY HALLS
Overview
Currently, city meetings are shot with a single camcorder. There is no"live" graphics
capability, so titles are put on in a post-production process that takes several hours to
capture the video,put on a title page, and then output it to DVD for playback. The longer
the meeting,the longer the conversion/editing process. Audio recording methods vary at
each city hall, as previously noted. An audio budget has been included to assist each city
in upgrading its audio system.
The overall goals for the PEG equipment are that it be easy to use, reduce staff time in
preparing it for cablecast or webcast, be sturdy, and cost effective. For redundancy and
operator ease of use,the equipment recommendations for the three city halls are
essentially the same. The equipment is capable of sending a live signal to LATV-10 and
to the city's website. Each city would need an upstream connection to the cable headend
to go live on the cable system, and would need a web service provider such as LOGIS
(Local Government Information Services)or VimeoPro (which costs approximately $200
per year)to stream the meeting to the city website.
Each city (Columbus, Forest Lake, and Scandia)would have its own mini studio system.
City meetings would be covered using a four-camera system (one of these is a document
camera). The document camera enables documents to be viewed by the council and a
video output is fed directly into the AV switcher; this will give viewers at home a direct
image (rather than shooting the image on the video projection screen as is currently
done). Power Point presentations can also be directly fed into the switcher.
The videographer selects the appropriate video source (camera,Document camera, Power
Point)that is recorded and goes live to LATV-10 and the city website.
Three cameras that can be remotely/robotically controlled (pan, tilt,zoom)will be used to
cover the council, staff, and presenter. The cities may elect to add a fourth camera on at
their own cost, which the camera controller and switcher can accommodate and would
provide more comprehensive coverage. A fourth camera was not included in the
equipment list to keep costs down.
It is anticipated that the equipment will be good for the life of a ten year franchise, and it
is recommended that it be purchased as soon as practicable. A final design and
installation should be conducted by a local AV company, which will ensure full
integration of the system.
The equipment recommendations are to be viewed from a functional perspective. Model
numbers and prices change, and when it is time to order the equipment,the cities should
consult with an AV eyuipment provider to finalize design, installation, and initial training
on the equipment.
- 17 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIvMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
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EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS # TOTAL
PRICE
CAMERA SYSTEM
Elmo document camera 1 $ 1,400
PTZ camera(Pan, Tilt,Zoom(e. . Vaddio PTZCam 100 Camera S stem 3 3,600
Camera mountin hardware 3 500
Camera controller(Vaddio ProductionVlEW 1 2,500
SWITCHE MONITORS AV RECORDING NIISC.
Roland LVS-800 Video Mix/Live Switcher 1 4,000
Preview/ ro ram monitor duo 1 1,000
DVD recorder, la to com uter with ra hics, external hard drive 1,600
E ui ment rack/cart 1 3,000
APC Smart UPS-SC 1 400
Power stri /sur e rotector 1 50
Miscellaneous cables, connectors, SD cards,headset, etc. 1,000
AUDIO
Bud et to offset costs for micro hones,other audio needs 2,000
SERVICES AND TAXES
Taxes, shi in 1,200
E ui ment warranties 3 ears on switcher,Elmo 600
Desi n and installation, electrical wirin 6,000
Trainin on e ui ment o eration 800
TOTAL $29 650
- 18 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIvMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
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Scandia City Hall
EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS # TOTAL
PRICE
CAMERA SYSTEM
Elmo document camera 1 $ 1,400
PTZ camera Pan,Tilt,Zoom e. . Vaddio PTZCam 100 Camera S stem 3 3,600
Camera mountin hardware 3 500
Camera controller(Vaddio ProductionVIEW 1 2,500
SWITCHE MONITORS AV RECORDING MISC.
Roland LVS-800 Video Mix/Live Switcher 1 4,000
Preview/ ro am monitor duo 1 1,000
DVD recorder, la to com uter with ra hics, external hard drive 1,600
E ui ment rack/cart 1 3,000
APC Smart UPS-SC 1 400
Power stri /sur e rotector 1 50
Miscellaneous cables, connectors, SD cards,headset, etc. 1,000
AUDIO
Bud et to offset costs for auto mixer,micro hones, other audio needs 2,000
SERVICES AND TAXES
Taxes, shi in 1,200
E ui ment warranties 3 ears on switcher, Elmo 600
Desi n and installation, electrical wirin 6,000
Trainin on e ui ment o eration 800
TOTAL $29 650
- 19 -
Holly Hansen Consulting . HoIIyMHansenC�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report.• PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
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Forest Lake City Hall
EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS # TOTAL
PRICE
CAMERA SYSTEM
Elmo document camera 1 $ l,400
PTZ camera Pan, Tilt,Zoom e. . Vaddio PTZCam 100 Camera S stem 3 3,600
Camera mountin hardware 3 500
Camera controller Vaddio ProducionVIEW 1 2,500
SWITCHE MONITORS AV RECORDING MISC.
Roland LVS-800 Video Mix/Live Switcher 1 4,000
Preview/ ro ram monitor duo 1 1,000
DVD recorder, la to com uter with ra hics, external hard drive 1,600
E ui ment rack/cart 1 3,000
APC Smart UPS-SC 1 400
Power stri /sur e rotector 1 50
Miscellaneous cables, connectors, SD cards, headset, etc. 1,000
AUDIO
Bud et to offset costs for auto mixer, micro hones, other audio needs 2,000
SERVICES AND TAXES
Taxes, shi in 1,200
E ui ment warranties 3 ears on switcher,Elmo 600
Desi n and installation, electrical wirin 6,000
Trainin on e ui ment o eration 800
TOTAL $29 650
-20-
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIyMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS : FLCC/LATV
Overview
According to the eyuipment inventory and staff discussions, much of the production
equipment is old and in poor condition. As a result,the overall recommendation is to
replace most of the equipment. Staff should test the equipment on the attached inventory
list, keep what is working, make repairs if cost effective,and properly dispose of the rest.
Essentially,the field, editing, and playback systems need to be completely replaced.
Studio production currently takes place in a garage/warehouse space attached to the
FLCC/LATV offices. The space has no air conditioning, limited heating, and no sound
control. lt does contain a large news set that was donated by Brown College.
There is no multi-camera production capability in the studio or in the field. Programs are
shot with a single camera and edited. On occasion,programs are recorded with isolated
cameras that are later synched together in editing. These methods are very time
consuming in the post production phase. It would be much more efficient in interview
and event coverage to use a multi-camera system where the production is shot"live"or
"like live"where little post-production is needed. Single or multi-camera productions
can still benefit from "B roll" and this production technique is possible with the
recommended equipment.
Staff editing can take place on their desktop computers rather than having one computer
for office applications and a separate computer for editing applications. Playback for
LATAV-10 and Ranger-20 should be upgraded to a server-based system,which will
streamline the work flow, improve quality, significantly upgrade the bulletin boards on
the channels, simplify scheduling and import it to the LATV website, and cablecast and
stream the programming to the LATV website. There is no computer network at FLCC
presently, and one will be needed to connect the editing computers to the server and to
centralize backup for programming and administrative files.
The equipment recommendations include cases to protect the field/remote studio
equipment, installation, funds for extended warranties on larger items, and funds for
shipping,t�es, and training. Staff, contractors and volunteers will all need training on
the new equipment, including training on production techniques for multi-camera.
The equipment proposed in the following pages will enable staff to have an integrated
digital work flow that will save time and improve quality. The makes and model
numbers are provided as examples of function,price, and capability. When it is time to
order the equipment, an AV equipment provider should be consulted to finalize design,
installation, and initial training on the equipment.
-21 -
Holly Hansen Consulting . HoIIyMHansenC�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Fie/d/Remote Studio Production
Goals for the equipment include that it improve program quality,be easy to use, simplify
work flow, cost effective, and digital so it can be used in cablecast and webcast
applications. The equipment trend is High Definition,which is becoming less expensive.
When possible, HD equipment should be purchased, as this will produce a higher quality
video signal even if it is transmitted over a SD (Standard Definition) PEG channel or
webcast over the Internet.
FLCC/LATV FIELD/REMOTE STUDIO E UIPMENT # Total Price
CAMERAS & TRIPODS
Camcorder(e. . Panasonic AG-HMC150 or Son HDR-AX2000 AVCHD 3 $10,500
Case for camcorder(e. . Pearson) 3 600
Tri od with uick release late 4 600
Tri od cases 4 600
Consumer SD camcorder with tri od and case e. . Son DCR-SX45 2 1,000
AV MIXERS MONITORS AND RECORDERS
AV Mixer& Recorder(e. . Roland VR-5 or Roland VS-800 1 5,500
Portable audio mixer& case e. .Rolls MX124 1 300
Field monitor& case e. . 11"Marshall LCD110-ATSC) 1 600
Memo Card Recorder 1 1,700
DVD recorder 1 200
Gra hics com uter w/software& case 1,200
MICROPHONES LIGHTING&MISCELLANEOUS
Hand-held microphones 3 300
Lavaliere micro hones wireless 4 600
Headset microphones(e.g. sports and event announcers) 2 800
Shot un micro hone camera mount accesso 1 200
Lowell Interview 3 li ht kit w/case 1 800
Camcorder-mounted li ht 1 200
Batteries, batte char er for camcorder 3 800
Simultalk 24GHz wireless Intercom w/4 headsets 1 1,000
Eartech ca in case for Simultalk s stem 1 200
Mic stands, cables,wind screens, SD cards,misc. cases&accessories 1,000
Camera trainin DVD 2 125
Vortex DVD: How to set u , li ht,and shoot reat interviews 2 100
Monster Power Sur e rotector/ ower stri 3 150
3 ear warranties for camcorders,monitors,AV mixer 2,500
Taaces and shi in 3,200
Trainin 1,600
TOTAL $36 375
-22-
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-]7-2012
Editing
Currently,the production staff use separate computers for editing and administrative
tasks. 1t is recommended that the production staff use the same computer for editing and
other tasks. One edit station with a computer and editing software is included for use by
contractors, interns, and volunteers. The FLCC does not have a computer network, and
funds have been allocated for the purchase and installation of a network, which is a
necessary part of simplifying the editing/program scheduling workflow and providing a
centralized backup system.
Funds for a Music Library are included to ensure that FLCC/LATV have the copyrights
to music and sound effects that may be used in their productions.
FLCC/LATV EDITING # TOTAL
PRICE
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
Adobe Premiere Pro Cs6 3 $3,000
Additional video roduction software TBD 3 1,200
Windows 7 Ultimate 4 1,200
Microsoft Office 2010 home/business 2 400
Microsoft Office 20l 0 Pro 1 350
COMPUTERS
Edidworkstation com uter w/monitor meet s ecs for Adobe Premiere 2 2,800
Edit station com uter w/monitor(e. . for contractors,volunteers 1 1,400
Computer for office&future editing(e.g. for Sarah) 1 1,400
Ke board(e. . Bella Advanta e series ke board for Premiere Pro S6 4 400
COMPUTER NETWORK
Ethernet com uter network: firewall, switch, installation 6,000
ACCESSORIES MISCELLANEOUS
Miscellaneous cables, SD cards,headphones,etc. 1,500
APC Smart UPS-SC 5 2,000
Hard drive back u for all com uters: APC Smart UPS-SC 6 2,400
DVD du licator&monitor 1 1,400
Music Libra 500
Warranties on com uters 600
Taxes and shi in 2,700
Trainin on Adobe Premiere Pro Cs6 1,600
Installation: com uters and software 1,200
TOTAL $32 050
-23 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIyMHansen@comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Playback
This is the final step in the digital workflow process. A video server is recommended for
storing and controlling program playback and webstreaming. This unit also has a
graphics capability with formats to easily create and store bulletin board pages for the
channels,which can also include video. The program scheduling function enables the
creation of program files and schedules in a fast and efficient manner, and schedules can
also be exported to the LATV website, along with a live program stream.
The playback server would be connected to the computer network to streamline the
entering of programming into the system; what takes hours using LATV's current
system,would take minutes in a digital-networked environment.
FLCC/LATV PLAYBACK FOR CHANNELS 10 AND 20 # TOTAL
PRICE
Ti htro e Media Cablecast Server SX3 1 $14,450
Ti htro e Media Bulletin Board S stem CG310 2 9,000
SDI V Routin switcher 1 2,500
Duo 8" monitors review/ la back for each channel 2 1,500
Wall-mounted dis la monitors to monitor PEG channels lobb 2 1,200
Mountin hardware, installation,electrical connections 600
APC Smart UPS-SC, cables, misc. connectors, etc. 800
Taxes and shi in 3,100
Trainin & Installation 1,800
TOTAL 34 950
-24 -
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS : EDUCATIONAL ACCESS
Overview
The FLCC currently hires independent contractors to record Forest Lake School Board
meetings, school sports, concerts, events, etc., at no cost to the school district. School
programming is shown on Channel 20 (Ranger-20). The majority of programming on
Channe120 is about the Forest Lake School District's sports, concerts,etc. A few
programs are shown about St. Peter's Catholic School, Lakes International Language
Academy, and North Lakes Academy.
Forest Lake High School
The Forest Lake High School students used to produce a daily news program that was
shown internally in the high school over a closed circuit TV system that was built in the
late l 980's. This is no longer done as the picture quality on Channel 15 (the internal
school channel) is snowy and unwatchable. In addition to the closed circuit TV system,
the high school is wired with CATS. The Forest Lake School District buildings are
connected by a fiber institutional network.
A cable technician looked at the closed-circuit system but did nothing to address the
problem. He suggested that the problem might be related to a car accident on the
highway. It is recommended that the school district contact MidContinent again and ask
them to test the signal coming into the high school,the modulator for Channel 15, and
check for any loose connections in the school's headend.
School Board Meetings
The FLCC records School Board meetings with a single camcorder. The District would
like an additional camera that would show presenters. The FLCC remote studio
equipment could be used to set up a two-camera shoot that could also incorporate video
from the school's document camera and Power Point presentations. The Boardroom has
an audio system, and an audio feed can be connected now to the single camcorder, and to
a remote studio set up when it becomes available.
Board meetings could be live on cable TV and on the district's website. T'he links,
eyuipment and/or services needed are the same as those mentioned for the City Halls.
Other Area Schools
The FLCC/LATV field/remote studio equipment could be used to record events at all of
the area schools, including St. Peter's Catholic School, Lakes International Language
Academy, and North Lakes Academy. Students from these schools could also take
classes in video production at the LATV.FLCC studio and become volunteers,helping to
video school events.
- 25 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIyMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
PEG CAPITAL NEEDS SUMMARY
DESCRIPTION 10 YR TOTAL
Cit of Columbus -Ci Hall $29,350
Cit of Forest Lake—Ci Hall 29,350
Ci of Scandia—Cit Hall 29,350
FLCC/LATV Field& Remote Studio E ui ment 36,375
FLCC/LATV Editin 32,050
FLCC/LATV Pla back 34,950
Com uter network for LATV office, la back& editin 6,000
Office e ui ment hones, rinter, co ier and furnishin s 4,000
Annual ca ital rant for FLCC/LATV $6,000/ ear x l0 rs. 60,000
E ui ment Grant in Yr. 4 of franchise 60,000
TOTAL $321425
*Cost over a 10 year franchise is $32,142 per year or$2,679 per month
Equipment for a studio was considered in the process of evaluating the PEG capital
needs. The space that FLCC/I,ATV currently rents does not allow for a proper studio
environment. The field/remote studio equipment can be used to produce multi-camera
studio productions in the FLCC/LATV space,which can accommodate two-three person
interviews and discussions in an informal atmosphere.
The current FLCC/LATV lease will expire in approximately Year 4 of the franchise,and
a grant of$60,000 is recommended for that year. The funds could be allocated towards a
studio function in a new space,to update the field/remote studio and editing equipment,
and/or assist the LATV in moving to a new facility.
The newscast set that is currently located in the garage/warehouse space of the
FLCC/LATV facility could possibly be donated to the Forest Lake High School if they
resumed their student news program. The high school has a large studio that could
accommodate the set and it would be a great asset to a student news program.
- 26 -
Holly Hansen Consulting • HoIIyMHansenCa�comcast.net • 612.207.8709
FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
NEEDS AND INTERESTS : FRANCHISE RENEWAL
PEG Channels
■ Maintain the current franchise reyuirement for three(3) PEG Channels.
■ Maintain current PEG channel locations and reyuire that Grantee not change the
location of a PEG channel without the written permission of the FLCC. If such a
change is approved, Grantee to reimburse FLCC for any costs associated with the
channel location change(e.g. promotional materials, logos, etc.).
■ Identify the PEG channels (LATV-10 and Ranger-20)and any future PEG
channel as designated by the FLCC on Grantee's on-screen program guide, on
channel line-up card, and in other promotional materials.
■ Grantee to promote LATV such as:through an annual bill stuffer, and showing
PSAs about LATV on its other cable channels.
■ PEG Channel program signals to be of same quality as the broadcast channels.
■ Provide PEG programming as a free VOD (video-on-demand)cable service.
(Amount to be determined by FLCC and Grantee).
■ Provide fiber link and transmission equipment for the PEG channels and
installation if needed to add another channel and/or to move the playback function
to a new FLCC/LATV facility.
PEG Funding
■ Increase PEG funding in franchise from its current rate of$.70 per sub/month to
provide adequate PEG support to support FLCC/LATV programming.
■ Require Grantee to provide an automatic annual adjustment to the PEG fee,based
on the Consumer Price Index.
Drops to Public euildings
■ Maintain existing franchise requirements for drops and complimentary Basic and
Cable Programming service to public and educational institutions as listed on
Exhibit A of the existing franchise. Grantee to provide a list to the FLCC of all
locations that currently receive this free drop and service.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
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■ Grantee to provide complimentary drops and service to additional public
buildings throughout the franchise term.
■ Grantee to provide drop and service to public buildings within 90 days of request
by FLCC or Member City, provided facility is within 150' of the cable system. If
requested facility is not within 150' of the cable system, Grantee to provide to
FLCC or Member City an estimate within 45 days of request,of actual cost of
time and materials to provide the requested drop.
■ Current sites to add to the drop list include:
Forest Lake Area Athletic Assoc. North Lakes Public Works
Future Forest Lake City Campus Scandia Fire Station
Lakes Int'1. Language Academy Scandia Public Works
North Lakes Academy Schumacher Field
St. Peter's Catholic School
Program Origination Capability
■ Maintain franchise requirement for program origination capability per Exhibit B
of the existing franchise. Focus Group participants were unaware of these sites
having a program origination capability. Grantee to verify and provide a list to
the FLCC of all locations that currently have origination capability, and location
of demarcation point.
■ Grantee to provide a fiber link and transmission equipment to the following
locations for the transmission of live programming:
Columbus City Hall Forest Lake Area Athletic Assoc.
Forest Lake City Hall Forest Lake High School
Scandia City Hall Forest Lake School District Offices
Scandia Fire Hall
■ Additional sites to consider for interactive capability include:
FLHS Football Field Lakeside Park Pavilion
Lakes Int'1. Language Academy North Lakes Academy
Schumacher Field
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Other Cab/e Issues
■ Add a line extension provision to the franchise to facilitate the provision of cable
and triple-play services to new subdivisions and other areas of higher density.
■ Revisit density requirements of current franchise (ten (10)homes per one-quarter
('/4)mile to determine if fewer homes per quarter('/e)mile or per mile could be
served.
■ Grantee to provide notice to FLCC when they anticipate outages or interruptions
in service that could adversely affect the PEG channels.
■ There is a need and interest for the FLCC to have a high-speed Internet
connection from MidContinent at no cost to provide VOD and possibly other
video content to MidContinent and Member Cities.
■ lnstitute reporting requirements to ensure that Grantee is meeting franchise
requirements and keeping FLCC and Member Cities informed of its activities.
Examples of reports and information inciude:
o Annual report with information on system capabilities, channel line up,
services offered,pricing, subscriber surveys, marketing materials
o Franchise Fee payments with detail on revenue sources(e.g. Limited,
Basic, HBO, Pay-Per-View, etc.), #of subs, homes passed
o PEG income reports (monthly)
o Marketing materials, plans, and activities
o Maintenance and Outage Reports
o System Upgrade and Maintenance Activities
CONCLUSION
There is a strong interest and community support for the local programming that is
produced by the FLCC for LATAV-10 and Ranger-20. There is a need for improvement
in the productions; most of it related to needed equipment improvements. The PEG
assessment has attempted to address those needs as well as training on any new
equipment that would be put into place.
Partnerships were stressed in the Educational Focus Group, and this report recommends
the sharing of field/remote studio equipment with the School District,private schools,
and the community at large.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
Each Member City has been provided with its own multi-camera system, which will
greatly improve the quality of city meetings,whether they are shown as live or recorded
on the cable system, or streamed live or downloaded later by viewers via the Internet.
The equipment recommendations are designed to streamline current work flows,and to
make video available through multiple formats: cable TV, Internet, and DVD, which will
enable virtually every resident of the FLCC Member Cities to view and participate in
local programs, meetings, and community events through the video medium.
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
EXHIBIT A
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Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
DROPS TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS LIST
EXISTING FRANCHISE
NAME ADDRESS
Senior Hi h School 6101 Scandia Trail North
Centu Jr. Hi h Central Learnin Center 200 SW Fourth St.
Southwest Jr. Hi h 943 SW Ninth Street.
Columbus Elementa 17345 Notre Dame Street
Forest Lake Elementa 408 SW Fourth St.
Forest View Elementa 620 SW Fourth St.
Scandia Elementa 14351 Scandia Trail North
W omin Elementa 25701 Forest Blvd.North
District Office 6100 North 210 Street
Communi Services Bld . 308 SW 15` Street
Ci of Forest Lake Cit Hall 220 North Lake Street
Forest Lake Fire De t. 870 Fourth Street
Forest Lake Police De t. 220 North Lake Street
Forest Lake Senior Center 767 SW Fourth Street
Forest Lake Townshi 21350 Forest Blvd.
Scandia Cit Hall/Communit Sr. Center 14727—209 Street
Columbus Ci Hall 16319 Kettle River Rd.
SUGGESTED ADDITIONS FROM FOCUS GROUPS
Forest Lake Area Athletic Assoc.
Forest Lake Fire De t new
Future Forest Lake Ci Cam us
Lakes International Lan ua e Academ
North Lakes Academ
North Lakes Public Works
Scandia Fire Station
Scandia Public Works
Schumacher Field
St. Peter's Catholic School
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
EXHIBIT B
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FOREST LAKE CABLE COMMISSION
Report: PEG Needs Assessment
7-17-2012
PROGRAM ORIGINATION SITES
EXISTING FRANCHISE
NAME ADDRESS
Senior Hi h 6101 Scandia Trail North
Centu Jr. Hi h now Central Learnin Center 200 SW Fourth St.
Southwest Jr. Hi h 943 SW Ninth Street.
Columbus Elementa 17345 Notre Dame Street
Forest Lake Elementa 408 SW Fourth St.
Forest View Elementa 620 SW Fourth St.
Scandia Elementa 14351 Scandia Trail North
W omin Elementa 25701 Forest Blvd.North
District Office 6100 North 210t Street
Communi ServicesBld . 308 SW ISt Street
Cit of Forest Lake 220 North Lake Street
Forest Lake Fie De t. 870 Fourth Street
Forest Lake Police De t. 220 North Lake Street
Forest Lake Senior Center 767 SW Fourth Street
Forest lake Townshi 21350 Forest Blvd.
SUGGESTED ADDITIONS FROM FOCUS GROUPS
Columbus Ci Hall
Forest Lake Area Athletic Assoc.
Hi h School football field
Lakes International Lan ua e Academ
Lakeside Park Pavilion
North Lakes Academ
Scandia Cit Hall/Communit Center
Scandia Fire Hall
Schumacher Field
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Holly Hansen Consulting � � � �
July 19,2012 � � � � �
� � � �
� � • � �
� � i �
� l� � a
Farest Lake Cable Commission � �
Lakes Area Television Studio
24260 Greenway Avenue North, Suite C
Forest Lake,MN 55025
Re: Follow Up: EG Access Review
Dear Commissioners:
This letter is to follow up on a couple of the items we discussed last evening during my presentation of
the PEG Access Review Report. The following items are part of the Needs and ]nterests and should be
included as items to discuss with MidContinent in your franchise negotiations:
l. Digital PEG Channels: The PEG channels should be added to the digital tier of service in
addition to their position(Channels ]0 and 20)on the lowest tier of service. In either case,the
quality of the PEG channels should be of the same signal quality as the broadcast channels.
2. The three analog PEG channels(2 active channels&one inactive channel)should each occupy 6
MHz. of bandwidth. The FLCC should maintain this amount of bandwidth for use in analog,
digital,HD,VOD,and other applications that might arise in the future.
3. The Library and County Service Center should be added to the list of drops to Public Buildings.
The FLCC can consider if they would also like to add this location to the Program Origination
Site List.
4. The Tightrope Playback System that is recommended can interface with TV Guide,which would
enable LATV-l0 and Ranger-20 programs to be listed. It needs to be determined how this
function can interface with MidContinent's system.
5. The City Halls may need more than the$2,000 audio budget per city hall that is allocated in the
PEG Report. The FLCC has the authority to increase this amount and ask for a larger capital
budget in its negotiations with MidContinent.
1 hope this is helpful in addressing the questions that arose regarding these aspects of the PEG Report. I
very much enjoyed meeting with all of you last evening,and if can be of further assistance, please let me
know.
Sincerely,
�k- n�
cc Brian Grogan
5440 Vernon Avenue South #131 • Minneapolis, MN 55436 • 612.207.8709 •hollymhansen@comcast.net
7/18/12 11:43 AM
Sarah:
Pursuant to our telephone conversation I understand there is some concern among the Forest
Lake Cable Commission members regarding the continuation of the Commission in its present
form. It is not entirely clear to me the motivations for one or more of the cities considering
withdrawal from the Commission but I would like to emphasize a few of the concems that may
arise should the Commission choose to disband.
The Commission is involved in a needs assessment process related to Midcontinent's request for
renewal of its cable television franchise. One of the primary purposes of the Commission is regulation of
the franchise cable operator— Midcontinent. Under Minnesota State law Midcontinent needs a franchise
to provide cable services in each of the cities. The Commission has attempted to address Midcontinent's
request for renewal by undertaking a very cost effective renewal process designed to review the cable
operator's past performance under the existing franchise and the future needs and interests of each of
the three cities so that they can be addressed in a new franchise.
To the end, the Commission has already commenced a franchise fee review to determine if Midcontinent
and its predecessor, US Cable, correctly remitted franchise fees to the Commission and its member
cities. The results of this franchise fee review could uncover underpayments that would assist the
Commission in its financial situation.
The Commission has also contracted with a local community programming expert to prepare a written
assessment regarding the various equipment needs to provide a high quality studio facility for the benefit
of the three cities and it their residents. This report has already been prepared and identifies a number of
capital requirements which can be addressed during renewal negotiations with Midcontinent. These are
commitments that Midcontinent would be required to address in addition to the 5% franchise fee required
under state and federal law. If the Commission were to disband it is likely that the negotiation leverage of
each of the cities would be reduced. There is an advantage to working with a cable commission because
you will end up with the same regulatory requirements under the franchise governing all of the
communities, the communities can pool their resources to provide greater community programming
options at a more affordable cost and the costs incurred to conduct the renewal negotiations can be
shared among the parties.
If the Commission's member cities choose to disband in the middle of this renewal process it will likely
render the needs assessment report prepared by the Commission moot because the report is prepared
on behalf of the entire Commission, not any one individual city. In addition, Midcontinent, rather than
negotiating with the Commission would negotiate directly with each individual city to secure franchise
renewal. Midcontinent has already presented the Commission with its version of a cable franchise which
is a very one sided document drafted to the benefit of Midcontinent with very little prote�tion for the
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7/18/12 11:43 AM
member cities or cable subscribers residing within those cities. While the cities certainly could share
information it is likely that Midcontinent would benefit from the break-up of the Commission similar to the
old adage "divide and concur."
I hope this information is responsive to the questions you raised during our telephone conversation. If 1
can provide additional information or assistance please feel free to contact me.
Very truly yours,
Brian
Brian T. Grogan
,�?����r�;�,�-����L�F,v
Moss&Barnett
Ph: E12-877-5340 Fx: 612-877-5031
www.moss-barnett.com
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