4/6/1983 - Laserfiche WebLink

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available to that park if the County so chooses. Mr. Pinto replied that the franchise is written so that it can serve anyone in the franchise area if it is economically feasible, unless it puts an unreasonable burden on other customers. Chairman Bird asked if there were safeguards built into the franchise to guard against a degradation of the system to assure it is maintained and operated on a first rate basis. Mr. Pinto explained there is a section of the franchise that requires a percentage of gross revenues to be deposited into an escrow fund, and this can be drawn down on for replacements or repairs to the system, either by the franchise people, or the County if that becomes necessary. Commissioner Scurlock noted for the record that he preferred a 6% franchise fee, but the Commission chose the 3%. He felt that 3% is not enough to cover the cost of monitoring "and -the eventual"involvement of the County. Chairman Bird asked who would bear the responsibility of inspections to note deficiencies that would trigger the use of the escrow funds. Mr. Pinto explained that the Utilties Department has that requirement and has stated that in the franchise. It is also required that the corporation would have to submit a report from a consulting engineer on maintenance and operation of the system on a yearly basis. - Commissioner Wodtke asked if there was the normal 7 year takeover by the County.provided in the franchise. Mr. Pinto explained that this franchise is written a little differently; there is a 7 -year option but depreciation enters into.it. The County has the option to buy even after the seven years. Commissioner Wodtke asked whether the 7 -year period starts from issuance of the franchise or completion of construction, and Attorney Brandenburg stated from the date