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Osage County tables decision on franchise fee for Cox; clerk to survey other providers
Summary
Commissioners discussed a notice from Cox and whether to impose a franchise fee of up to 5%; they directed staff to check contracts with other providers and return with recommendations.
Osage County commissioners on Tuesday discussed a letter from Cox Communications that included required contact information and a question about franchise fees for providing services within the county.
Commissioners decided to table further action and asked Clerk Michelle Morris to contact other local media and communications providers to determine whether the county has existing franchise-fee arrangements. Commissioners noted Kansas law allows municipalities to levy franchise fees of up to 5% and said they do not want to apply a fee to one provider and not others without a comparable policy.
During the conversation, officials said Cox’s letter requires the county to be notified of any changes and asks what type of franchise fee the county would like. Several commissioners urged that the county adopt a consistent approach, either by matching fees across providers or creating a uniform policy.
County Counselor Josh Nye was asked to review existing contracts and, if needed, draft a county-specific agreement for commissioners to consider. Clerk Michelle Morris said she expected to have contact information and be able to follow up within a week or two.
No formal vote occurred; the item was placed back on the agenda as unfinished business pending review of contracts and responses from other providers.
