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UAC discusses Verizon franchise request and options to improve island cell coverage; forms small working group
Summary
The UAC reviewed the city's first franchise request from Verizon and debated whether franchise terms can require coverage improvements; attorneys cautioned about federal limits and members formed a small working group to pursue partnership options beyond the franchise.
Committee members discussed a franchise request from Verizon, noting this is the first such request the city has received and that the primary public concern is persistent coverage gaps across the island.
Members reviewed what a franchise typically covers (rights-of-way, indemnification, restoration) and flagged legal constraints under federal telecommunications law that can limit local performance mandates. One participant said attorneys advised against adding service-performance strings to the franchise itself; another suggested a separate partnership agreement or memorandum of understanding could be negotiated to encourage targeted investments in coverage and community benefits.
The chair asked whether the UAC should brainstorm recommendations for council on approaches beyond a franchise, and several members with poor personal service volunteered for a small working group to explore options. Suggested approaches included: using the city's "bully pulpit" to highlight coverage gaps; negotiating a partnership agreement at the time of signing; and preparing possible nonbinding incentives or community-benefit language for providers.
Next steps: a small volunteer group will meet to scope options and report back; staff will gather franchise materials and legal guidance to inform further UAC discussion.
