October 6, 2021 Minutes
Minutes from the Cable Television Advisory Council
Monthly Meeting for October 6, 2021
in-person venue at Luce’ Ristaurante Italiano, Hamden, CT
Advisor’s Present: Advisor’s Absent:
Peaches Quinn (New Haven) – Chair
George Alexander (Hamden) – Treasurer
Laurel Colman (Hamden) – Vice-Chair
Johnes Ruta (New Haven) – Secretary
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) – Assistant Secretary
Yvone Manning Jones (New Haven)
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System Representative)
Melissa Canham-Clyne New member – (Hamden Library System Representative)
- Call to Order & Roll Call: 6:06 P.M
* Meeting presided by Laurel Colman in absence of Peaches Quinn at time meeting
convenes.
* Introduction of new member Melissa Canham-Clyne representing Hamden Public Library
System, Note of allowance of her membership by CTAC By-Laws, though a resident
of New Haven. Self-introductions of existing member to the new member.II. Review and Approval of Minutes for August 7, 2021, Zoom Meeting
* Yvonne Manning-Jones specifies an error in Item IV of the August 2021 Minutes
(taken by Anthony) indicating that she had “abstained” on the vote to accept the Minutes,
but states that she did not and “would not have any reason to do so.” A correction to
Item IV of the August Minutes is indicated. Otherwise, with this one correction to be
made, Anthony makes a Motion to accept the Minutes for August. Johnes Seconds
this Motion. Vote – all in favor – carried.
Yvonne Manning-Jones enters a Motion to create a link to the CTAC Minutes to be put
online into the New Haven Boards & Commissions website. Peaches Quinn Seconds
this Motion. Vote – all unanimous, Carried.
Peaches Quinn (Chairperson) arrives and assumes Chair of the Meeting, apologizes for arriving late, due to a health situation at home, states importance and collegialship of our meeting procedures .
III. CTAC Mission
Peaches speaks about the CT State Statutes 16-333 pertaining to Cable Franchises
and Advisory Councils. Peaches’ research discovered a summary by Kevin McCarthy’s
of the OLR – Office of Legislative Research – “What Cable Advisory Councils are All
About,” and gives copies of this report to the CTAC members, that we exist as an
advisory council to Comcast to represent public issues to Comcast. Johnes points out
that CTAC reports to P.U.R.A. (the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority).
IV. Treasurer’s Report
George states that the present balance of CTAC funds is $5,006.30. No spending of funds occurred during past month. Peaches brings up question of how to show any
spending remittances. Johnes suggests simply printing the online banking statement
of these. Peaches refused to entertain this as a “Motion.”
Peaches makes Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report; Yvonne Seconds this Motion
All in favor but Johnes who Abstains. Motion carried.
V. Comcast Report
Comcast Represe ntative Sharon Codeanne was unable to attend this meeting due to Covid and a recent death in her family. She was also to send her email report, but this
was also not received.
- Frontier
* Peaches picks up information on Frontier from the Statewide-Media Advisory Council.
Says Frontier did not want to participate at the local Advisory councils, rather than on
the local councils. The Statewide meetings can be attended by members of our Council
and Peaches recommends that any member do so.* Elaine Burkhart is working on re-wording the By-Laws of state and local advisories.
Peaches wants our Council to learn what the new wording of Legislative Bills
will be ?* Peaches states she has learned that the names of Cable Tevelision Advisory Councils
on the state and local level is being changed to “Video Advisory Council.”
Johnes asks what are the ramifications of this name change might be concerning
councils’ jurisdiction? Peaches does not know what this entails.VII. CTV – Citizens Television
* Laurel reports that the CTV studio has not yet reopened to the public or for CTAC
meetings. Nether has the CTAC PSA for CTV been completed for broadcast, but
meetings are announced on the CTV Community Bulletin Board.
* Peaches asks whether the Citizens Television Comcast channels 26, 27, & 96
are available online. No.
VIII. Old Business
* By-Laws: What changes have been approved to the wording of membership
regulation of Boards of Education and Library Systems of towns in our jurisdiction.
* CTAC Facebook Page: Yvonne reports no new news or issues on the CTAC Facebook
page.
* Community Awards: No activity has been planned or accomplished.
Anthony is seeking a non-profit Veteran organization to be give a financial award.
* Peaches suggests that CTAC again seek high-school and/or middle-school for
video workshops for video production training. This might help teachers also
who often are the ones purchasing materials and equipment using their own funds.
IX. New Business
* Yvonne speaks about a new video internet service in East Hartford called
SiFiNetwork,com which has be come a partner with the town of East Hartford
with a plan with coverage for 30 towns inclusive.
* Yvonne talks about GoNetSpeed which is expanding service to Milford proposing
a FLEX-Plan for subscription payments with no-contracts. Yvonne suggests
CTAC list comparative subscription rates of cable and alternative video options
on the CTAC website, a monthly column “In the News” category for the webpage,
in order to help .
* Yvonne makes a Motion to this extent for a monthly column on “Cable News.”
Johnes Seconds this Motion. Vote is unanimous.
* Tom Costa relates Library actions to provide FREE WiFi Access within 3 blocks
of Main New Haven Public Library. This has been proposed in the past, but no
actions taken to implement. Peaches makes Motion for Melissa to look into
WiFi Access which is outside of NH Library range. Johnes Seconds this Motion.
Vote – all in favor, carried.
* Peaches makes a Motion to have Tom Costa and Melissa partner to draft a letter
to the mayors of all three towns (Hamden, New Haven, & West Haven), after
the upcoming town elections for public City-Wide Free WiFi Access, and to
determine the cost information and estimates of how this would be paid-for
for uch a plan. Johnes Seconds this Motion. Vote is all in favor, carried.
X. Minutes Archiving
* George speaks about the paper archive records of the CTAC which go back to
the 1990s, of Minutes and financial records. George wishes these records find
a way to be digitized and created into PDF documents to preserve the history
of CTAC. Peaches recommends we hire a service to scan and organize these
records consisting of two heavy boxes of papers and documents.
George makes a Motion to have this done. Laurel Seconds this Motion,
and the vote is unanimous. Johnes offers to take these boxes from George
and seek scanning professional services and costing expenses.
XI. CTAC Budget
* Peaches recommends a new documentation chart for organizing the CTAC Budget
to work out expense categories into a columned template for such needs as Meeting
expenses, Legal fees, Community Outreach and website expenses, and Community
Awards. George Alexander objects to this as unneeded for documentation; all that is
needed is simple reporting of expenses.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 P.M.
Next Meeting: November 3, 2021. via Zoom
Submitted by: _Johnes Ruta ______________________________
Jonhes Ruta, Secretary
Anthony Caro, Assistant Secretary
August 8, 2021 Minutes
Minutes from the Cable Television Advisory Council
Monthly Zoom Meeting for August 8, 2021
To view the recording, please click the following link and observe the instructions if prompted:
If prompted for a password, enter:
Advisor’s Present: Advisor’s Absent:
Peaches Quinn (New Haven) – Chair Laurel Colman (Hamden) – Vice-Chair
George Alexander (Hamden) – Treasurer
Johnes Ruta (New Haven) – Secretary
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) – Assistant Secretary
Yvone Manning Jones (New Haven)
Tom Costa (New Haven Library Representative)
Call to Order & Roll Call: 5:35 P.M.
- Review and Approval of Minutes for July 7, 2021, Zoom Meeting
Ms. Quinn made a motion to approve the minutes, which was seconded by Ms. Jones. The motion passed unanimously.
- Council Issues:
- Officer Elections:
Officer election results: Chair – Peaches Quinn, Vice-Chair – Laurel Colman, Treasurer – George Alexander, Secretary – Johnes Ruta, Assistant Secretary – Anthony Cardo
Mr. Ruta made a motion to approve the officer elections, which was seconded by Mr. Alexander. The motion passed unanimously.
- Revision to By-Law:
- Proposed revision 1, change all mentions of Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) in the By-Laws to Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to reflect a change in the organization.
Mr. Ruta made a motion to approve proposed revision 1, which was seconded by Ms. Jones. The motion passed unanimously.
- Proposed revision 2, incorporate the revision proposed by Mr. Alexander revision, which was brought up and approved by the council in May. (See May Minutes)
Mr. Ruta made a motion to approve proposed revision 2, which was seconded by Ms. Jones. The motion passed unanimously.
- Action Item:
Mrs. Quinn volunteered to mark up the By-Laws with the suggested revisions and will submit them to the council for final approval and publishing.
- CTV Report:
- No new report
- Issue/Topic/ Viewer Complaint:
Viewer complaint: Mr. Ruta noted that network programs were featuring programs that were being cut off before the end of the scheduled showtime. This issue may have been resolved but will be followed up with CTV.
- Comcast Report:
- No new report
- Issue/Topic/ Viewer Complaint:
- July 7th subscriber letter update
No connection has been made with the family by Peaches Quinn and an update from Comcast Representative Ms. Codeane confirmed that a consumer can fall in a perpetual late fee payment loop.
Ms. Quinn made a motion to publish a public warning/comment on the dangers of getting caught in a late payment loop on the council’s website and Facebook page, which was seconded by Mr. Ruta. The motion was passed with 4 votes Yay and 2 votes Abstain. (Ms. Quinn, Mr. Ruta, Mr. Costa, Mr. Cardo voted to approve and Mr. Alexander and Ms. Jones voted to abstain)
- Action Item:
Mrs. Quinn volunteered to write up the alert and submit it for publishing.
- Mr. Costa suggested to contact the Attorney General and inform them of this anti-consumer practice
Mr. Ruta made a motion to follow through with Mr. Costa’s suggestion, which was seconded by Ms. Jones. The motion passed unanimously.
- A suggestion was made to contact Ms. Codeane and ask to provide a contact phone number for consumers to call and seek help if caught in a late fee payment loop.
- Another suggestion was made to include the consumer number in the PSA as well.
- Frontier Report:
- No new report
- A motion was made to advertise the next bi-monthly Frontier meeting on the website and the Facebook page. The motion passed unanimously.
- Old Business:
- CTAC Public Service Announcement:
- No update
- CTAC Facebook Page:
- No update
- Community Awards:
- No update
- Open to other suggestions
- CTAC Website:
- Ms. Jones made a motion to add a link to the Facebook page to the website, which Mr. Ruta seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
- Letter to 3 Mayors Urging City Wide Internet:
- No update
- CTAC Public Service Announcement:
- New Business:
- No new business
- Subscriber Issues:
- No update
- Other topics:
- Costa learned that Cross Point Federal Union in Hamden, CT is the local point of contact for Comcast’s Inclusive Funding program
- Alexander made a motion for Mr. Costa to use his connections to reach out to the West Haven’s head librarian to find out about their interest in joining the CTAC meetings, which Mr. Ruta seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion to Adjourn:
Mr. Ruta made a motion to adjourn, Ms. Quinn seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 7:27 P.M.
Next Meeting:
September 1, 2021.
Submitted by: _______________________________
Jonhes Ruta, Secretary
Anthony Caro, Assistant Secretary
July 7, 2021 Minutes
CTAC Meeting Minutes July 7, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
Attending members:
Peaches Quinn (New Haven) Acting Chairperson – ZOOM Host
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) Advisor
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System) Advisor
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Joe Schofield – CTV Representative – not in attendance.
Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance
- Call to order 6:06pm. II. Welcome and Minutes(a) Zoom video recording: Peaches make Motion to henceforth video record the
Zoom meetings and publish to the CTAC Facebook page and the CTAC website
https://www.cableadvisory.org/ George states that CTAC meetings are “public meetings”
according to our By-Laws, including Hamden, New Haven, and West Haven.
Johnes seconds Motion to video our meetings on Zoom. Brief discussion.
Motion vote – all are in favor, Yes.(b) June Minutes – acceptance is deferred pending revisions.
(c) May Minutes approved? Yes, all drafts are complete. Peaches has sent a copy of the
Fourth Draft. George will put the May Minutes onto the CTAC website.III. Treasurer’s Report – George Alexander
(a) George reports that the Brewery Street P.O. Box charge has been paid. Otherwise
“there have been no changes” – no expenditures, no income.(b) CTAC Connex Card: Johnes reports that the Grubhub charges for members’ June
meeting orders did not execute, so that he had to use his own credit-card to pay
for all six orders. Was then reimbursed, Peaches recommended that Johnes contact
Connex and Grubhub again to configure the credit card into the Grubhub account.IV. CTV Report – Joe Schofield – No report filed. Mr. Schofield is not in attendance.
V. Comcast Report – Sharon Codeanne (not in attendance).
(a) COMCAST PRESS RELEASE
Comcast
One Comcast Center
Philadelphia, PA 19103
COMCAST ADVANCES ECONOMIC MOBILITY AND RACIAL EQUITY IN UNDERSERVED
COMMUNITIES THROUGH $10 MILLION INVESTMENT WITH INCLUSIV
NEW YORK, NY & PHILADELPHIA, PA – JUNE 9, 2021 –
Inclusiv and Comcast Corporation today announced that Comcast has committed to invest $10 million specifically aimed at building equity in credit unions led by and/or serving people of color through Inclusiv’s Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund (“the Fund”). Launched in 2020, the Fund leverages investments to increase lending to minority owned businesses, homeowners, and consumers, providing access to capital and new financial opportunity to traditionally underserved and underbanked communities. As Inclusiv’s first corporate investment, Comcast’s commitment will enable local financial institutions to deploy at least $200 million in total capital in communities that need it the most and help ensure hardworking individuals have access to the capital needed to build and strengthen their financial lives.
This high-impact investment also paves the way for additional contributions from social impact investors, further growing the Fund’s impact and reach. The Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund builds upon the highly successful Inclusiv Resilience Grant Fund, which raised more than $1 million in grant funds for 59 minority-designated credit unions serving more than 200,000 members.
The unprecedented economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the long-standing racial wealth gap caused by generations of systemic racism in the United States. People and communities of color saw their income levels, ways to accumulate wealth, and entrepreneurial opportunities lag behind that of their white counterparts before and after the pandemic, disparities that became even more pronounced over the past year. Currently, the unemployment rate for Black workers is almost double that of white workers. Additionally, Black-owned small businesses have experienced the most significant decline among active small business owners nationwide, shutting their doors at more than twice the rate of white-owned businesses.
“Our partnership is driven by the simple – but powerful – idea that businesses can help change and
improve lives,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer of Comcast Corporation. “This investment reflects our commitment to advancing pathways to economic mobility and racial equity. We applaud Inclusiv’s leadership in removing barriers to financial opportunity and helping drive powerful returns that reach across entire communities.”
Community Development Credit Unions (CDCUs) and Minority-Designated Institutions (MDIs), which are locally owned financial institutions, have stepped in to meet essential needs in their communities. They helped unbanked consumers open accounts to receive stimulus checks safely, delivered low and no-cost emergency loans to meet basic household needs, provided forbearance on existing loans, and made at least $4 billion in Paycheck Protection Program loans to small and micro businesses during the pandemic.
“Large-scale investments grow community-based financial institutions to fulfill their mission – helping
people traditionally left out of the financial mainstream to access and use financial products to build credit,start and grow small businesses, and achieve the dream of homeownership,” said Cathie Mahon, President and CEO of Inclusiv. “Comcast’s investment enables these crucial front-line institutions to provide solutions to inequitable access to credit in communities of color. Inclusiv welcomes Comcast as a new investor, moving investment into action to build strong and diverse local economies.”
Community development and MDI credit unions can have significant impact on their communities if
supported with the capital necessary to thrive. Secondary capital allows CDCUs and MDIs to do more of what they do best – extend credit and provide safe and affordable financial services to underserved
individuals who may not otherwise have access to them. Inclusiv studies have shown that CDCUs that
received these investments leveraged capital up to 60 times over 5 years – resulting in more loan
deployment, more financial products and services offered, and more specialized lending.
About Inclusiv
At Inclusiv, we believe that true financial inclusion and empowerment is a fundamental right. We dedicate ourselves to closing the gaps and removing barriers to financial opportunities for people living in distressed and underserved communities. Inclusiv is a certified CDFI intermediary that transforms local progress into lasting national change. We provide capital, make connections, build capacity, develop innovative products and services and advocate for our member community development credit unions (CDCUs). Inclusiv members serve over 14 million residents of low-income urban, rural and reservation based communities across the US and hold over $184 billion in community-controlled assets.
Founded in 1974, Inclusiv is headquartered in New York, NY, with offices in Madison, WI and Atlanta, GA. For more information about Inclusiv visit us at Inclusiv.org and connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, Peacock, NBC News, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia.
Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
Interested supporters with questions about the Inclusiv Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund
can contact Cathi Kim, Director of Inclusiv/Capital, at [email protected].
Media Contacts:
Audrey Wang
Inclusiv [email protected]
Joelle Terry
Comcast Corporation [email protected]
Comcast Minutes Wednesday, July 7th, 2021 – CONTINUED
(b) Comcast Customer complaint – being multiply charged subscriber “Late Fees.”
Comcast official reply: “Not a problem.” It is agreed among CTAC advisors
present that this is not an acceptable reply. The customer reported that this Late
Fee had been repeatedly imposed as an extra charge of their monthly bill, as the
payments of the initial Late Fee was being contested, and therefore the payments
were considered by Comcast to be two months behind. The subscriber’s name
is Kimrose.
Peaches makes a Motion to pursue Comcast explanation if they can justify an
additional Late Fee being imposed every month, adding up to hundreds of dollars
of extra charges. Laurel Coleman asks about the sequence of this subscriber’s
letters of complaint to CTAC. Laurel, George, and Johnes agree that Comcast’s
response to this situation is inadequate. Peaches Quinn says that she intends to
follow up with Sharon Codeanne at Comcast and will formally request a letter of
acknowledgement. Laurel Coleman seconds Peaches’ Motion. Vote – all in favor.
(c) Peaches proposes Motion: Question to Sharon Codeanne; “How does Comcast
respond to this revolving circular motion. Yvonne Manning-Jones seconds
this Motion. All in favor.
(d) Comcast P/R – Employment – Peaches – “Are employment opportunities easy to come
by?” Laurel discusses issues of people’s needs” “How can people access these
resources?” Peaches: “Comcast is sending monies $ to resources: MBI, Credit
Unions, Equity Financials, Community Development, Science Park Development
Corp. etc. Peaches makes Motion to follow-up with Comcast P/R for Hamden,
New Haven, West Haven? Johnes seconds the Motion. Vote – all Yes, but George
abstains.
Tom Costa asks: “Can we get Comcast to to include a copy of the the Press Release
in their billing customer letters?” Peaches responds, “Comcast is not likely to do
that in their billing, and more likely to push-back against this request. She asks Tom
to follow-up about eligibility, and how Comcast’s money is being disseminated?
VI. Old Business
(a) CTAC Public Service Announcement update – Laurel Coleman – requested report
is deferred to October, when CTV has fully reopened.
(b) Community Awards
* Veterans outreach – update – Anthony Cardo – no info to update.
* Other ideas: e.g. Community rooms, public housing – no info to update.
(c) CTAC Facebook page : Update —Y. Manning – No update.
(d) Lettter to 3 Mayors urging city-wide internet – Issue deferred to next meeting.
(e) General Assembly – Bill 6442- Internet Equity – Update from Sen Gary Winfield
– Sen. Winfield was invited to this meeting but was unavailable.
VII. New Business
(a) CTAC Officers nominations: Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary.
1. Peaches makes Motion for procedural to multiple positions – canvas to these
four positions:
Chair – Peaches offers her incumbent position to others but no takers. Johnes
renominates her. Laurel seconds Motion. All – yes.
Vice Chain – Laurel Coleman volunteers. All in favor.
Treasurer – George offers to continue to handle financial matters. All in favor.
Secretary – Anthony volunteers. Johnes volunteers to continue his responsibility.
Johnes proposes alternating services month-by-month.
George questions whether this is or is not an option in the By-Laws? Issue for
further discussion. Johnes and Anthony will discuss.
George makes Motion to approve slate of Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer.
Johnes seconds Motion. All are in favor.
(b) CTAC By Laws
- Revision – Issue not addressed.
- Updating – Issue not addressed. Adjournment (a) George makes Motion for August meeting – Wednesday August 4th 5:30 to 7:30.
Johnes seconds Motion. All in favor.(b) Peaches asks for Motion to Adjourn. Johnes makes Motion. Yvonne seconds.
Meeting adjourned 7:25 PM
Draft of July Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta. July 28, 2021.
June 2, 2021 Minutes
FINAL CTAC Meeting Minutes June 2, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
Attending members:
Peaches Quinn (New Haven) Acting Chairperson – ZOOM Host
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) Advisor
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Joe Schofield – CTV Representative – not in attendance.
Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance
- Call to order 6:13pm.
II. May Minutes
_ Peaches requests the Comcast report to be attached to Minutes for May and subsequently
(if there was one) versus summarizing commentary.
_ Section #8 – Subscriber issues – Peaches will provide revisions. Vote Carried.
III. Treasurer’s Report
George Alexander reports “Balance remains the same.” (No expenditures)
Johnes reports that the Connex Credit Card that he was issued did not function when he
used it to pay for Grubhub dinners for CTAC members for this meeting, even though
he had recently verified its active status with the Connex Credit Union. Johnes paid for
all GrubHub orders via his own Credit Card, and was later reimbursed for the full amount
by the CTAC Treasurer. There has been no further resolution of this problem.
Treasurer’s report– Johnes makes Motion to accept. Yvonne seconded to accept. Vote -all yes,
IV. CTV Report – Joe Schofield is absent from the meeting.
Peaches asked whether Joe mentioned the progress of the PSA for CTAC that we all attended for video recording in early February 2020, before the pandemic was called. There was no mention. The Council expects that when the CTV opens in September 2021, that the recorded
PSA will get attention.
(Note from May Minutes: TV offices and studios have been closed since March 2020
due to Covid-19, but will reopen June 1st for staff only, not for producers. Then September 1st for producers. All persons who enter must show proof of vaccination (CT Vaccination
Card. Masks and Social Distancing will be required for all. Otherwise, persons
will not be allowed entry.)
-
COMCAST Report – None submitted to CTAC.
a. Subscribers’ issues: CTAC has only one Comcast contact – Sharon.
Peaches Quinn will distribute Sharon’s email contact so that we can all reach her.b. Yvonne Manning-Jones notes that Comcast subscriber contracts are known to expire
without notification or warning and subscribers’ bills will suddenly increase by
a large amount to the next higher subscription tier.
Peaces inquires if there was any alert to subscribers of immanent increases showing
on the Comcast website? None known.c. George added a post to the CTAC website (cableadisory.org): for “FAQ [Frequently
Asked Questions] published by PURA, including info about the Comcast app to view
the status of a subscriber’s data usage.VI Old Business
a. PSA. Laurel informs the council that, since the video PSA has not been completed,
CTV will put an announcement indicating CTAC is recruiting for new members on the community calendar. Peaches request Laurel submit the announcement to be posted on the CTAC website and Facebook page.b. Community Awards –
(1) Anthony Cardo reports on the progress of outreach from the Veterans Hospital
and veterans groups.
(2) Other ideas:
Senior Centers
Community rooms: usage for seniors – ? should the CTAC give grants for these
programs ?
A community award be provided to the Q-House once it reopens.
Discussion to continue.
c. CTAC Facebook page & website update:
George states that our site is presently reaching out to the public. No design changes needed.
d. Letters to Mayors (of towns of our jurisdiction) – Peaches has sent out request from
mayors on status of our request for city-wide WiFi. She reports that there have been
deferred actions now pending outcome of the CT General Assembly activity.
e. General Assembly – Focus on Gov’s Bill 6442 – Internet Equity —PQ
Joint Favorable in Approps, 05/03; Tabled for House Calendar, 05/04
https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?
selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB6442&which_year=2021
Contact with Comment: Reps, Elliot, Horn and/or Candelaria (Appropriations);
Sen Gary Winfield, Energy and Tech Committee
-
Annual Report:
(1) George submitted all the monthly Minutes for the past fiscal year. Approved.
The inclusive report goes to PURA.(2) Financial Report of Expenditures. Peaches stresses that all expenditures
should be reported.
(3) George and Peaches debate on how to submit the Annual Report to PURA –
whether submission on the preset Form.
(4) Peaches Quinn stresses Community Outreach needs. George reminds that CTV
provides free meeting space for CTAC’s monthly meetings. Johnes agrees that
Community Outreach contributions by Comcast are essential to enabling CTAC’s
mission working with the cable subscriber public.
(5) George Alexander makes a Motion that major contributions made as one-time gifts from CTAC in 2020 for financial assistance to Hamden and. New Haven
be put into the Annual Report.. Johnes seconds this Motion.
All – Yes; Laurel abstains.
(6) Laurel suggested adding a financial footnote to the annual report financial section to
highlight the community awards which CTAC awarded the past year. However, the discission from members was not to include the footnotes.
(7) Johnes makes a Motion to approve the submission of the Annual Report to PURA
as prepared by the Treasurer through email, contingent on the the addition of
George’s point reference to the body of .the Minutes. Yvonne makes the Motion to
Second. Vote – all in favor,
VII. New Business
- a. CTAC Officers Nominating Committee – Not taken up.
CTAC By-Laws 1) Revision; 2) Review updating – Not taken up.
c. May Statewide Meeting – Not taken up.
7:10 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds Motion. All Agreed.
Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, July 7th, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.
June 2nd, 2021 Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.
May 5, 2021 Minutes
FINAL— CTAC Meeting Minutes May 5, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
Attending members:
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) – Stand in Chair
(Peaches Quinn (New Haven) Acting Chair – absent
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Joe Schofield – CTV Representative – in attendance.
Sharon Codeane – Comcast Representative – not in attendance but report submitted
-
Call to order 6:03pm.
2. April Minutes
George’s requested edits – done.
Laurel’s requested edits – done.Yvonne – Motion to accept April Minutes. Laurel – seconds the Motion.
Vote Carried.3. Treasurer’s Report
George reports “Balance remains the same.” (No expenditures)
Anthony makes Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Johnes seconds the Motion.
Vote: carried.
-
CTV Report – Joe Schofield.
a. CTV offices and studios have been closed since March 2020 due to Covid-19,
but will reopen June 1st for staff only, not for producers. Then September 1st for
producers. All persons who enter must show proof of vaccination (CT Vaccination
Card. Masks and Social Distancing will be required for all. Otherwise persons
will not be allowed entry. ) -
The Cable Television Advisory Council can resume meetings in the CTV office in
September.c. Laurel states her concern for unvaccinated individuals, but agrees with CTV protocol.
Joe notes that Laurel uses the CTV Editing Room, but indicates that there is a CTV
editing program that can be downloaded onto her computer for use at home.d. George asks Joe if CTV had gotten any Small Business Loans?
Joe indicates that CTV is not eligible for C(3) Funding. But CTV is trying to get
additional money from the State of Connecticut.5. Comcast Report – S. Codeanne
Sharon Codeanne submitted the Comcast Progress Report. Please see attachment
below..6. Old Business
a. CTAC Public Service Announcement- PSA call for new CTAC members: Laurel requested an update from CTV program scheduling to learn when this PSA would be run. Laurel reported CTV has not given a date the PSA will be run, but has stated they recognize our need to recruit council members.
- Community Awards – Anthony Cardo – No response from outreach as yet
- CTAC Facebook Page- ? Yvonne, status?
CTAC Website- George say that he has updated our website (cableadvisory.org) info with news about Comcast programming for children, and further commented that Comcast really needs the same programming options for seniors.
- Letter to 3 Mayors urging city wide internet – still deferred….
Within your networks and social media: Urge all to send letters to the Mayors of our 3 towns to implement Internet city wide wifi free of charge.
Comcast has not yet responded to CTAC’s call for city-wide WiFi.
- General Assembly-
1) Governor’s Bill 6442- Internet Equity
Continue to write/call legislators daily!
2) Support Bill in U.S. Congress proposing internet become a public utility
7. New Business
- Annual Report- Minutes review and financial report being added
- Appoint CTAC Nominating Committee – Discussion took place
- Subscriber Issues
- Subscriber Correspondence – None
- Complaints: Laurel states that there have been numerous complaints to Comcast about their “unjustified” rate increases during the pandemic, + $10 in February 2020 and an additional $10 in January 2021.
- Other: Consumer Inquiry
Laurel spoke with Peaches about a Comcast subscriber hoping to get assistance for her monthly bill. Peaches checked with Sharon . Unfortunately there is a wait period of 3 months an individual needs to be on unemployment before any funding help from Comcast kicks in.
7:07 pm, Laurel makes Motion to Adjourn. Johnes seconds Motion. Agreed.
Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.
May 5th,, 2021 Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.
COMCAST ANNOUNCEMENT
Good afternoon!
We have seen time and again how access to technology opens a new world of possibilities, and that’s why we are thrilled to ask you to join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary of Internet Essentials, our comprehensive effort to close the digital divide. Since launching in 2011, the Internet Essentials program has connected more than 44,000 households in Connecticut to high-speed Internet. As we look back on our decade-long commitment to connecting the unconnected, we’re also looking ahead. We will continue to work to close the digital divide by sharpening our focus on programs that provide media and technology skills training that can lead to economic mobility.
In Connecticut, we have continued to drive Internet adoption through several initiatives, which include increasing the speed of our Internet Essentials service to 50 Mbps downstream and 5 Mbps upstream. This was the sixth time since the inception of Internet Essentials that we increased speeds for these customers while keeping the price of the program at $9.95/month. We are also continuing to offer 60 days of free Internet Essentials service to new customers through June 30, 2021 and our public WiFi hotspots remain open for free to everyone, even non-Xfinity Internet subscribers.
In addition, we are proud partners of the Connecticut State Department of Education to provide Interest Essentials to even more low-income families, through our Internet Essentials Partnership Program.
Lastly, we’re excited to announce the launch of 25 WiFi-Connected “Lift Zones” across Connecticut, 13 of which are now open. Comcast “Lift Zones” enable us to forge partnerships with community centers to support safe spaces for homework, training, social activities, and more, driven by connectivity.
We’re immensely proud of everything Internet Essentials has accomplished – and we know from our work over the past 10 years that the digital divide can only be addressed through a comprehensive effort by nonprofit and community-based organizations, educational institutions, faith leaders, as well as the government and private sectors. We can’t thank you enough for being part of this journey with us and invite you to view our 2021 Internet Essentials Progress Report to learn more about how we have evolved to serve our communities over the years, as well as through the ongoing pandemic.
Thank you again for your support and the work you do in your communities every day.
Best regards,
Sharon
Sharon Codeanne
Director, Government & Regulatory Affairs
Comcast
222 New Park Drive
Berlin, CT 06037
860-505-3477
PRESS RELEASE
Comcast Corporation
One Comcast Center
Philadelphia, PA 19103
www.comcastcorporation.com
COMCAST LAUNCHES DISNEY+ AND ESPN+ ON XFINITY
Millions of X1 and Flex Customers Can Now Enjoy Disney+ Original Series, Feature-Length Films, Documentaries, Live-Action and Animated Series, the Latest Releases from The Walt Disney Studios and More via the Award-Winning Xfinity Voice Remote
ESPN+ Launches on Flex Today and X1 in the Coming Weeks, Bringing Fans Thousands of Live Sports Events Including the Upcoming FA Cup Semi-Finals, UFC 261, new MLB and MLS seasons, The Masters & PGA Championship, Original Programming and More;
PHILADELPHIA – (March 29, 2021) – Comcast and The Walt Disney Company today announced the start of the rollout of Disney+ and ESPN+ on Xfinity, giving X1 and Flex customers access to the Disney+ library of movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with thousands of live sports events and original programming from ESPN+.
The launch means in the coming days tens of millions of customers will soon have access to Disney+ in an easy-to-use, state-of-the-art user interface that provides access to the best entertainment, just in time to enjoy the newly released series Marvel Studios’ “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier,” “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers,” and upcoming series “Big Shot,” premiering April 16, and “Secrets of the Whales,” premiering April 22.
Additionally, ESPN+ is now available to Flex customers via the ESPN app, with plans to launch on X1 in the coming weeks. ESPN+ programming includes over 10,000 live sports events including exclusive UFC events, hundreds of MLB games, Golf (coverage from PGA Tour, The Masters and PGA Championship), an incredible lineup of international and domestic soccer (including the FA Cup, Bundesliga, Serie A, MLS, Copa Del Rey and more), college sports from 20 conferences, boxing and much more. ESPN+ also features exclusive ESPN+ Originals and signature studio shows like “Stephen A’s World,” “SportsNation” and “Peyton’s Places” – plus exclusive access to the entire library of ESPN’s award-winning “30 for 30” documentary films and more.
X1 and Flex customers can access Disney+ or ESPN+ by saying “Disney+” or “ESPN+” into the Xfinity Voice Remote or by saying the name of a desired title from one of the streaming services (like, “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier” or “Stephen A’s World”). Xfinity customers will also be able to find the Disney+ and ESPN+ content libraries integrated throughout their user experience, including in collections such as “TV,” Movies,” “Sports” and more.
“With the launch of Disney+ and ESPN+, our X1 and Flex customers will now be able to enjoy all the best entertainment from today’s most popular streaming services on one device that makes it easy for them to find their favorite programming, or discover something new,” said Rebecca Heap, Senior Vice President, Video and Entertainment, Comcast Cable.
“The launch of Disney+ and ESPN+ on Comcast’s Xfinity platforms comes at an opportune time with the new Disney+ Original series from Marvel Studios ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ in full swing, the return of Coach Gordon Bombay in a new series ‘The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers,’ and “Secrets of the Whales” from National Geographic premiering on Earth Day. It will be a big April on ESPN+ too with UFC 261, the start of MLB and MLS seasons, The Masters, and more,” said Michael Paull, President, Disney+ and ESPN+.
Disney+ and ESPN+ join a growing collection of streaming services available over the Internet on X1 and Flex including Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, Vudu and Pandora, amongst many more.
Xfinity delivers all the best entertainment to customers via its X1 and Flex devices and through its leading Xfinity Internet service. X1 provides the most comprehensive library of entertainment on one platform with thousands of choices – aggregating live TV, On Demand, and all the best apps. Xfinity Flex is a 4K streaming device included with Xfinity Internet that extends the best features of X1 to customers who prefer a streaming experience, with all the favorite video and music apps, as well as the ability to manage Xfinity WiFi, mobile, security and automation services – all controllable with the award-winning Xfinity Voice Remote.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit http://www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes Disney Parks, Experiences and Products; Media & Entertainment Distribution; and three content groups—Studios, General Entertainment and Sports—focused on developing and producing content for DTC, theatrical and linear platforms. Disney is a Dow 30 company and had annual revenues of $65.4 billion in its Fiscal Year 2020.
# # #
Media Contacts
Comcast
Debbie Frey
215.983.0563
Disney
Bridget Osterhaus
April Carretta
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers About Your Cable Service
STATE OF CONNECTICUT
PUBLIC UTILITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITY
Last Revised July 20, 2020
PURA Cable Sector Regulation Information
Who regulates cable rates?
Under state and federal law, PURA is unable to regulate cable rates.
Does PURA regulate satellite providers of television service?
PURA does not have jurisdiction over satellite providers of television service. Although the Authority does not have jurisdiction, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection may be able to assist you with unresolved complaints involving satellite providers of television service. You may write to Consumer Protection at the following address:
Department of Consumer Protection
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Customer Complaints Related to Cable Service
Who should I contact about a cable company related complaint?
You should always contact your cable company first when you have a complaint. In many cases, the customer service representatives at your cable company will be able to assist you and solve your problem. The telephone number for your cable company should be on your cable bill.
Your cable company has jurisdiction over the following issues:
Programming carried on the system. With the exception of rules that require cable systems to carry certain local broadcast stations, cable systems decide which programming services to carry. Therefore, you should contact your cable system if it has dropped a particular channel.
Carriage of FM and AM radio stations.
Charges for pay-per-view or pay-per-channel programming. The rates charged for this type of programming are not regulated.
Questions or complaints handled by the Authority include:
Customer service problems, including billing disputes, office hours, telephone availability of personnel, installations, outages and service calls.
Signal quality, including interference and reception difficulties.
Use of public, educational, and governmental (PEG) channels. These channels may be required as part of the franchise agreement. Your local franchise authority can provide information on any terms or conditions of use.
You should contact the FCC if you have complaints or questions about the following issues:
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints. Contact the FCC, Media Bureau, Policy Division, EEO Branch, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554.
Signal leakage from cable systems, which can result in interference to other users of the spectrum, including aeronautical services. Contact 1-888-225-5322 or send your inquiry to FCC, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554.
Cable home wiring questions. If you believe that your cable company has violated the rules governing your ability to access and to use cable home wiring, please send a letter outlining the facts to the FCC, Media Bureau, Policy Division, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554.
Commercial limits for childrens’ programming. Write to the FCC, Enforcement Bureau, Investigations & Hearings Division, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554.
Indecency and obscenity. Generally, the rules concerning the content of programming on cable channels are not as strict as the rules concerning programming content on non-cable channels. If you object to programming on a cable system, you may contact the FCC to determine what rules may be applicable and what action may be appropriate. Call 1-888-225-5322 or send your inquiry to FCC, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554.
You can contact the FCC for assistance in understanding cable regulations at the following telephone numbers and addresses:
Written communications: Federal Communications Commission, General Cable Inquiries, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20554;
Telephone assistance: 1-888-225-5322 to have fact sheets describing various aspects of cable regulations sent to you or to ask questions; or
You can access recent Commission decisions regarding cable regulations via the Commission’s Internet site, www.fcc.gov.
Cable Service Rates Information
My monthly bill shows charges for various fees. What are these?
There are two types of fees that cable operators may be required to pay, although both of these fees are typically referred to as franchise fees. The first type of fee is a regulatory fee, and the second type of fee is a negotiated fee. Cable operators are allowed to be reimbursed for both types of fees by recovering the costs from subscribers.
Regulatory Fees: Connecticut does not impose a license fee, but does impose other costs, as listed below.
FCC Fee: The Federal Communications Commission requires payment from the cable operator on an annual basis to offset the cost of federal regulation. Depending on your cable operator, this fee may be called an “FCC Fee,” “FCC Mandated Fee,” or “Regulatory Fee.”
Negotiated Fees/Franchise Fees: Under federal law, non-capital costs relating to license requirements are considered franchise fees and may be passed onto subscribers. For example, cable operators are required to set aside channels for public, educational, and governmental (“PEG”) use. The monies spent to maintain the PEG access studio, equipment, and personnel are considered franchise fees and may be passed on to subscribers. Fees vary based on franchise area. These fees appear on monthly bills as “Franchise Fees,” “Franchise Costs” or “Access Fees.”
Gross Earnings Tax: The history of the gross earnings tax dates back to 1965. At that time, the existing gross earnings tax in Connecticut General Statutes (Conn. Gen. Stat.) §12-258 was revised by the Legislature to add cable television systems at a rate of six percent. In 1971, the rate was changed to eight percent. Public Act 81-255 increased the rate again to nine percent. Finally, Public Act 89-251 reduced the rate to the current five percent.
Cable television systems itemize the gross earnings tax, sometimes identified as the franchise fee, on the monthly cable bills. This is confusing to many subscribers. They believe they are being taxed incorrectly because the sales tax is computed on the total bill, including the gross earnings tax. However, we have been advised by the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) that this treatment is correct.
DRS states that the gross earnings tax is a tax on the company, like the federal income tax or state property tax. As such it is an expense of the company. According to Conn. Gen. Stat. §12-407(8), the “Sales Price” of a company’s product or service, upon which sales tax is computed, includes “the cost of materials used, labor or service cost, interest charged, losses or other expenses.” Although cable television systems have chosen to treat this one expense differently by identifying it separately on your bill, the gross earnings tax is, by statutory definition, a part of the sales price and, therefore subject to sales tax.
If you have further questions, DRS’s Taxpayer Service Division may be reached by phone toll-free at 1-800-382-9463.
Is the cable operator allowed to charge sales tax?
Yes. Cable operators may charge subscribers a Connecticut sales tax for the lease of remote controls. The tax must be itemized separately on your bill.
Cable Billing Information
Is my cable company allowed to bill me in advance?
Yes, Connecticut regulations allow cable operators to bill subscribers up to two months in advance. However, most cable operators providing service in Connecticut only require payment for one month in advance.
When is payment for my cable bill due?
Connecticut regulations require cable operators to include a specific due date on subscribers’ bills. The due date must be at least five business days from the date the bill was mailed. Your bill should be paid by the specified due date.
When is my account considered delinquent for non-payment?
A subscriber’s account can be considered delinquent if payment has not been received by the cable operator thirty days after the due date shown on the subscriber’s bill.
Is my cable operator allowed to charge me a late fee?
Yes, but only after the following conditions are met: (1) a subscriber’s account must be considered delinquent, meaning payment has not been received within thirty days from the bill due date; (2) the cable operator must provide the subscriber a written late charge notice; and (3) the subscriber must be given eight days from the date the amount becomes delinquent to pay the balance due. If an account meets these conditions, cable operators are allowed to charge up to five percent on the balance due in the form of a one-time late fee. A late fee cannot be imposed on any charge that is in dispute while the complaint mechanism outlined below is being followed.
Is my cable operator allowed to disconnect my service for non-payment?
Cable operators are allowed to disconnect cable service for non-payment under the following conditions: (1) a subscriber’s account must be considered delinquent; (2) the cable operator must give the subscriber written termination notice; and (3) the subscriber must be given at least eight business days from the mailing date of the termination notice to pay the balance due.
What can I do if I disagree with a charge on my cable bill?
Subscribers who disagree with a charge on their cable bill should contact the cable operator as outlined below:
Subscribers should immediately contact the cable operator to file a billing complaint. Under Connecticut regulations, the cable operator must be contacted within thirty days from the due date shown on the subscribers’ bill. The cable operator is required to investigate and respond with a decision within thirty business days of receipt of a billing complaint.
Establishing Cable Service
What information should I receive before I subscribe to cable television? Connecticut regulations require cable operators, upon request, to give potential subscribers written notice of their services, rates, charges, and billing practices before a subscription agreement is reached. The billing practices notice should include the cable operator’s policies regarding frequency and timing of bills, payment requirements necessary to avoid account delinquency, billing dispute resolution procedures, and late payment penalties.
Cable Programming Information
Why does programming differ from community to community? Under federal law, cable operators are allowed to select the programming they want to carry and to package that programming in a manner they determine is best. Cable operators consider a number of factors when deciding how to package their programming. Legal, technical, financial, and demographic factors can influence the cable operator’s decision to carry certain channels. For example, federal regulations require cable operators to include certain over-the-air broadcast channels along with other local channels on the basic service tier.
Are cable operators required to carry local broadcast programming?
Yes, but this is subject to negotiation between the cable operators and broadcasters. Federal law provides broadcasters the option of either requiring a cable operator serving the relevant market to carry its station (“must-carry”), or requesting compensation from the cable operator for the right to carry the broadcaster’s station (“retransmission consent”). Many larger broadcasters choose retransmission consent, and the resultant compensation from cable operators is often passed through to subscribers in the form of a “Broadcast TV Fee” or similar charge. Many smaller broadcasters choose to invoke their must-carry rights.
10 Franklin Square, New Britain, CT 06051
An Equal Opportunity Employer
www.ct.gov/pura
April 7, 2021 Minutes
CTAC Meeting Minutes April 7, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
(due to virus pandemic)
Attending members:
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) – Advisor – Temporary Chairperson
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System)
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendance
Joe Schofield – CTV Represntative – not in attendance.
- Call to order 6:05pm. Teleconference members on Zoom.2. March Minutes
Changes requested – Laurel – none; Yvonne – none.3. Old Business
a. CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes.
b. Laurel has sent an email to Andrew at CTV requesting CTV to post CTAC request for new members from underrepresented towns, especially West Haven, which currently
has no representative on CTAC.Laurel asked if the Council was ready to move to the agenda item dealing with consumers. (The discussion proceeded.) She mentioned Ms. Fern Coleman contacted her (Laurel) to see if there was assistance available to reduce her Comcast bill since she (Fern) was unemployed. Fern indicated that a Comcast representative stated that she needed to contact the Unemployment office to obtain a coupon to present to Comcast. Fern contacted the Unemployment Office, and a representative stated they were not familiar with any coupon type program. (Fern is a Comcast customer, and her contract has expired.)
George indicated that the only program he was aware of was the Internet Essentials Program, that Sharon had shared with the Council in the past. Laurel said that, she wanted to have this matter followed up, and wanted to follow protocol which has been used in the past with such consumer inquires and complaints. The protocol has been to provide the Chair (Peaches) with the inquiry or complaint, and she inquires with the provider (Comcast). Laurel indicated she would contact Peaches to pass Fern Coleman’s inquiry onto to Comcast.
4. Treasurer’s Report
- George reports “no change in status;” no expenditures.b. CTAC Annual Report to be filed; this will be done via online Form supplied with
form questions.Johnes makes a Motion to accept George’s report, Tom Costa seconds this Motion. Carried.
- 5. New Business
Laurel states that there have been numerous complaints to Comcast about their
“unjustified” rate increases during the pandemic, + $10 in February 2020 and and
additional $10 in January 2021.b. George mentions the New Haven Independent report: “Comcast boondagle in attempts
to set up a city-wide WiFi internet that estimates will cost $1 Million !”
7:02 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.
Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, May 5, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.
April 7th Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.
Emergency Broadband Benefit
Emergency Broadband Benefit
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an FCC program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, and so much more.
“We need to use all available tools to get 100% of us connected in this country and this program is an essential part of making that happen.” Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel
The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
Who Is Eligible for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program?
A household is eligible if a member of the household meets one of the criteria below:
- Has an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline;
- Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision in the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school year;
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
- Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or
- Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.
When Can I Sign Up for the Benefit?
As of May 12, 2021, eligible households will be able to enroll in the program to receive a monthly discount off the cost of broadband service from an approved provider. Eligible households can enroll through an approved provider or by visiting https://getemergencybroadband.org.
Check out the Broadband Benefit Consumer FAQ for more information about the benefit and please continue to check this page for program updates.
Which Broadband Providers Are Participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit?
Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and wireless broadband, are participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit. Find broadband service providers offering the Emergency Broadband Benefit in your state or territory.
Broadband providers can find more information about how to participate here.
March 3, 2021 Minutes
CTAC Meeting Minutes March 3, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
(due to virus pandemic)
Attending members:
Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) – Advisor
Laurel Colemen (Hamden) Advisor
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System)
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative
Joe Schofield – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.
- Call to order 6:04pm. Teleconference members on Zoom.
2. New member greeting: Tom Costa representing New Haven Public Library System,
Adult Services Center. background in Military Communications; IT Educational instructor;
Radio station experience. Government Document Librarian. Resides on Temple Street.
Council members introduce selves to new member.3. COMCAST Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – is in attendance.
a. To help connect low-income families to the Internet, Comcast has committed to launching
more than 1,000 WiFi-connected “Lift Zones” in community centers nationwide. Comcast
will provide free WiFi in these facilities to help students get online, participate in distance
learning, and do their schoolworkb. LEAP is now an active Lift Zone and we are also working with the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven, Youth Continuum, New Haven Housing Services and the Urban League of
Southern CT.c. Last month, Comcast increased the speed of our Internet Essentials service for the sixth
time in 10 years – to 50/5 (without changing the price).d. Programming Updates:
a. Effective March 9, 2021, NBA in SD format will no longer be available as part of the NBA League Pass HD Pay-Per-View. NBA in HD format will continue to be available
on Channel 1218 as part of NBA League Pass HD Pay-Per-View.b. Effective April 13, 2021, Cartoon Network will move to the Digital Preferred package.
e. The $2,000 annual support check was mailed to George Alexander; confirmed receipt
on 12/21/20.f. George asks Sharon about Gov. Lamont’s announcement that all areas and households
in CT have cable service extended to their locations. Sharon explains that there are some
rural areas in CT not yet served in their service area.g. Peaches asks Sharon about the anticipated arrival of 5G WiFi in our district area?
Sharon replies that there is not yet a time frame for this system ugrade.h. George asks Sharon question about turnaround time on DVR replacement.
i. Johnes asks Sharon where to find Comcast Financial Reports. She directs information
to the Comcast website page on Investor Relations. Johnes asks about the justification
for the second rate increase since 2020, $10 January 2020, $10 more in February 2021.
Sharon argues about other cable competitors in CT, Johnes asks if competition is an issue
why not lower rates? Sharon argues Comcast’s increasing operational costs.j. Peaches asks Sharon for info on criteria in identifying “older adults” eligibility for
Internet Essentials.k. Tom asks Sharon for clarification on zones for Lift Zones initiative. Sharon emphasizes
implementation for zones for virtual school sessions.(After her presentation, Sharon Codeanne signs off from the meeting.)
4. February CTAC Minutes.
Peaches requests distribution of February Minutes, previously sent as Draft to Peaches.
Johnes emails Final Minutes for February and December Minutes to all members.5. CTV Report Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
No report; no one has heard from Joe Schofiled. Laurel needs an update regarding the
PSA that was video taped before the pandemic shutdown, No update received from CTV.6. Treasurer’s Report – George Alexander
George states current CTAC account balance is $5,547.32, including $2,000 check just
received from Comcast. Received a bill for Post Office Box charge, just paid, is $332.
Peaches makes Motion to accept the Treasury Report. Johnes seconds the Motion, Carried.7. . Old Business
a. CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes. She has been perusing
other Advisory councils; she saw one ADA offering plug-in for computer screen access
for individuals with disabilities. Peaches notes that community constituents would need
Spanish or other languages for screen texts.b. Laurel’s report on PSA: “has not heard anything” from CTV where PSA was recorded in February 2020. There is no update on work on PSA, as schools are not in regular session.
- George talks about a major redesign of the CTAC website cableadvisory.org
George specifies that the design is all done, and has added links for the legislating for
internet for all, but needs more input about what we at CTAC are doing.8. New Business
a. Peaches brings up CTAC continuing legislative activity on internet for all and
net neutrality. Concerns regarding complaints on new data usage caps being proposed
by Comcast. These additional surcharges have been delayed for one year by CT AG Tong.
Legislative Aide Jason Knight communicated with Peaches regarding H.B.6157
Gov. Lamont has proposed a corresponding Bill 4, but Peaches notes that the language
of this Bill is “more weighted on the side of Internet Security.” Peaches indicates that
the CTAC sub-committee of herself, George, Yvonne, and Johnes will address the issues in
H.B. 5157 in order to get them included in Bill 4. Laurel Coleman expresses her concern
for rate increases. Peaches notes that emails to the legislature have little effect, and instead
recommends multiple telephone calls to State Senators and Representative to join efforts
to implement rate controls in CT. Peaces also notes that in the northwest corner of CT, the
preponderance of internet traffic of Wall Street connections is gobbling up resources
on cable towers.b. Peaches recounts her participation in the Statewide Cable Advisory Council meeting in
February, where the main issue addressed was a plan to save the northwest corner of the
state, which would be “Fiber to Home.” Peaches states that the time spent at this Statewide meeting going through the Agenda was 22 minutes! When her question was waiting on
“raise-hand” on that Zoom meeting, regarding Legislative issues, was ignored by the Chair Person. Peaches says that the other Connecticut Cable Advisory Councils, such as Waterbury,
Hartford, Bridgeport, should be represented but were not. This Statewide Chairperson
recommended all the advisory councils raise money for lobbyists for causes that they
wish to promote.
7:32 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.
Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, April 7, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.
March 3rd Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.
February 3, 2021 Minutes
CTAC Meeting Minutes February 3, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
(due to virus pandemic)
Attending members:
Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones – (New Haven) – Advisor
Laurel Colemen (Hamden) Advisor
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary
Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendence.
Joe Schofield – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.
- Call to order 6:02pm. Teleconference members on Zoom.2. Meeting Minutes December 2, 2020, (most previous CTAC meeting.) Peaches requests that
all members read December Minutes, and submit requested changed by Friday , February 12th.3. Treasurer’s Report – George Alexander
George will submit Treasurer’s Report updates as soon as possible.
4. CTV Report Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
No report; no one has heard from Joe Schofiled.5. COMCAST Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance.
CTAC members stipulate that Comcast needs regular representation and attendance
at CTAC meetings.Johnes states that the situation with Comcast rates and announced data caps
6. . Old Business
a. Laurel’s report on PSA: “has not heard anything” so no update on work on PSA,
as schools are not in regular session.b. Anthony’s report on Community Awards: he has sent out many email inquiries only one
response – from House of Heroes – which turned down the request: “not in our mission profile.” Peaches notes that there are presently no groups are assembling or responding
on these on this program.c. CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes. She has been perusing
other Advisory councils; she saw one ADA offering plug-in for computer screen access
for individuals with disabilities. Peaches notes that community constituents would need
Spanish or other languages for screen texts.7. New Business.
Peaches brings up subject of where on the internet to find the registry of Proposed Bills
in the Connecticut Legislature, directs each Zoom meeting participant to open the internet
to the CGA for the CT General Assembly: CGA.ct.gov – then find the icon for the
Energy & Technology Committee – where CT Senator Gary Winfield is the Chairperson.
Next find the icon on this screen for BILL RECORD BOOK. Here, the prefic PSB
represents “Proposed Senate Bill,” and PHB represents “Proposed House Bill.”On this list we find PHB-6156 : A Proposed House Bill “To Prevent a Cumulative
Internet Usage Data Cap.” The purpose of this proposed law would be to disallow
internet cable franchises from charging extra rates when a limited amount of internet connectivity.At 7:03 pm, CT Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven) joins the Zoom call as invited earlier.
He gives an update of the progress of legislation to regulate cable company imposition of data
usage caps: PHB-6156, in initial drafts, is one of the Bills before the Communications
Committee.Peaches Quinn, speaking for the CTAC Council asks what we can do to effect more influence
in the CT Legislature ? Sen. Winfield gives an email address to lobby: [email protected]
to be sent to individual legislators with a focus on leadership members:Writings for Public Testimony, from citizens, and in-person visits to the State Capitol
(present in-person limit is 3 minutes) and in written form.
1. contact committee members
2. provide specifics on how to interface with public
3. articulate issues
4. ask for action in State Legislature
5. put together a coalition.
George will contact Cable Statewide Advisory members and put pressure on members
and continue outreach to other Cable Advisory councils in Connecticut.
Cable companies to be stated in legislative action:
Optimum, Frontier, Spectrum, Cablevision, Comcast (Hartford, Middletown, Danbury,
New Haven, Groton.
Peaches Quinn reiterates our call to have the internet be declared a Public Utility, so that
P.U.R.A. can assume responsibility as the Internet Regulator.
Peaches requests an additional Zoom meeting this Friday, February 5 to continue work on
tis issue. Peaches makes a Motion to engage an advocacy on behalf of internet and prohibition against cable companies imposition of additional charges of internet usage, especially during
Covid-19 Pandemic. Johnes seconds this Motion. Carried my CTAC membership vote.
Peaches makes a second Motion to meet outside of regular Council schedule. Johnes seconds
this Motion. Carried by Council agreement.
George Alexander makes Motion to reach out to Statewide Advisory to ask if they want to
partner with our efforts ? Anthony Cardo seconds this Motion. Agreed.
7:32 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.
ADDENDUM Secondary CTAC Meeting on Friday February 5th.
Peaches Quinn’s contact at PURA is Rosalind Gunn. Peaches is seeking documentation
for Comcast’s Business Model – She has not found this documentation.
Statement of Goals – What to accomplish for any advocacy for legislation:
* gather community strength
* outreach
* Legislative Bills
– PSB-4 AAC on Data Privacy
Themes
* Data Usage Fee – CTAC – CT Attorney Generat Tong has made executive action
to cable franchises to hold-off Internet Data-Caps imposition for one year.
* Regulation of video rates
* Net Neutrality on state and national level – all CTAC members are agreed on need for this
policy.
* Internet as a Public Utility – all CTAC members are agreed on need for this policy.
PHB-6157: introduced by Rep. Matt Blumenthal – contact his aide and determine who
are his legislative allies. We will document case – why this is a good thing?
Rep. Matt Blumenthal 860-240-8585 (son of US Senator) – determine status of this Bill:
how many other reps are associated? What is their priority of this Bill.
Are they looking for advocates ? Take “temperature” of Bill among other legislators,
in public support.
Joint CT Senate/CT House Communications Committee. Co-Sponsor – Rep. Michael
A. Winkler (56th District). Will Senator Winfield become a Co-Sponsor ?
Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, March 3rd, 6:00pm, Zoom.
February 3rd and February 5th Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven)
Acting Chair.