Council postpones library E-rate/Comcast contract amid funding and wording concerns

The Pasadena City Council voted July 21 to postpone indefinitely an ordinance (item 2d) that would authorize the Pasadena Public Library to accept E-rate grant funding and enter a contract with Comcast for Internet service.

Councilwoman Pat Van Hout moved to postpone after pointing to what she described as “bad wording” and incorrect numbers in the ordinance and contract language. "The numbers are incorrect… the contract repeatedly says that it is a monthly recurring charge," Van Hout said, warning that, as written, the city could be left “on the hook for almost a $250,000.” She said the cover page referenced the Universal Service Administrative Company but the contract is with Comcast and there was no evidence in the packet that grant funding had been secured.

Council members debated whether the postponement should be time-limited; an amendment to clarify that the postponement be ‘‘indefinite’’ failed, and the council then approved the motion to postpone the item. Councilman Guerrero said the item needs more work and emphasized ensuring grant funding is in place before the contract is executed. "That's not a no. It's not right now," Guerrero said, urging stakeholders to return the item when funding and wording are resolved.

The postponement means the library will not move forward with the Comcast contract as presented; the council left open the option to bring the ordinance back after staff and stakeholders correct the contract language and confirm funding. The council's vote followed extensive procedural discussion and a roll-call on the amendment language before the final motion carried.