Public commenters at PURA hearing largely support Charter’s proposed acquisition of Cox; community-access advocates seek protections

Public comment at a Public Utilities Regulatory Authority hearing on docket 250811 overwhelmingly favored Charter Communications’ proposed acquisition of Cox Communications, with business groups, municipal officials and local nonprofits stressing jobs, investment and community partnerships — while one long‑time cable advisory council member urged conditions to protect community access television and related funding.

The hearing was convened by PURA staff attorney and hearing officer Josh Coker. Coker opened the proceeding as a “listening only” public comment hearing and told attendees that the record will be transcribed and that an evidentiary hearing will be scheduled later in the docket. “At the evidentiary hearing, additional testimony will be presented, and the applicants and parties submitting testimony will be available for cross examination,” Coker said.

Why it matters: PURA and federal agencies will review the transaction for its effects on consumers, competition and service reliability. Supporters argued the deal would expand investment and workforce programs in Connecticut; at least one commenter asked regulators to impose specific conditions to preserve community access operations and funding.

Support for the…