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BOOK 88 NAGE .48-7 <br />Mr. Vickers pointed out that many stations would not be <br />available in this area if it were not for cable. There are <br />currently 39 channels available, including five premium channels. <br />He explained that the cost increase per channel has been lower than <br />increases in the consumer price index. Mr. Vickers then discussed <br />new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that will <br />benefit consumers but will cost money. For example, Falcon has to <br />meet certain maximum noise levels over the next 2-3 years, which <br />requires new electronics. The new regulations require cable <br />companies to provide a basic level of service at a lower cost than <br />they currently charge their customers. <br />Mr. Vickers predicted that cable companies will be faced with <br />increased competition in the future. South Indian River County has <br />a wireless cable operator, and telephone companies will soon offer <br />cable service. Satellite dishes are available, and the technology <br />is improving. <br />Commissioner Adams asked whether Falcon Cable would be willing <br />to broadcast tapes of BCC meetings, as they do for the City of <br />Sebastian. <br />Mr. Vickers explained. that Falcon Cable would be happy to <br />broadcast videotapes provided by the County. He mentioned that <br />live video broadcasts require a dedicated phone line, which costs <br />about $70 per month. <br />Commissioner Macht asked, and Mr. Vickers confirmed, that <br />there is a government channel used for these broadcasts. <br />The Chairman asked if anyone from the public would like to be <br />heard in this matter. There being none, he closed the public <br />discussion. <br />Attorney Vitunac advised that the new FCC rules will be <br />released in April and will be available to the Board. Under the <br />new rules, the County has the power to regulate cable rates. The <br />County will have six months to decide whether existing rates are <br />fair, and future rate increases will be subject to the approval of <br />the Board. <br />Commissioner Macht mentioned that a conference is planned for <br />this June in Orlando to explain the new rules to county franchise <br />officers and commissioners. <br />Vice Chairman Tippin indicated that no action was required of <br />the Board at this time. <br />Put <br />- M <br />