Cable Franchise Renewal Process

The cities of Pasco and Richland have partnered together to cooperatively negotiate a new cable franchise with Charter Communications. 

Under federal law, "franchising authorities" (in Washington State, these are cities and counties) can require cable television companies to negotiate a franchise (in other words, a contract) to provide cable TV service within a municipality. The City of Pasco currently has one non-exclusive cable television franchise with Charter Communications. 

The Executive Department monitors and enforces the rules set forth in the franchise. The City collects a franchise fee of 5% of gross revenues from Charter for their use of the City's rights-of-way. Approximately $275,000 in franchise fees were collected in 2010.  Federal cable legislation allows cable companies to pass on this fee directly to their customers.

The Buske Group, a cable consulting firm, is assisting the cities with the franchise renewal process.

The Cities are working with the Buske Group to analyze the results of recent surveys and focus groups to determine the needs of the communities.  The Cities hope to have new franchises in place ahead of the current franchises' expirations in 2013.

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Communications at (509) 545-3485.