(a) The purpose of this chapter is to provide requirements for all franchise agreements permitting the construction and operation of any cable communications system in the City of Reynoldsburg, Ohio and the issuance of permits to operators of such systems and the policies of the city related thereto.
(b) This chapter does not take the place of any franchise, license, or permit which may be additionally required by law, including but not limited to any ordinance or regulations governing use of city owned rights of way. Each operator shall obtain any and all such franchises, licenses, or permits necessary to the operation and conduct of its business.
(c) Unless otherwise set forth herein, the Mayor is hereby granted the authority and duty of enforcing the provisions of this chapter.
(d) No person shall operate a cable communications system within the city unless he obtains a permit and conforms to the requirements set forth therein and in this chapter.
(e) The policy of the city with regard to cable communications systems is hereby declared to be:
(1) The promotion of the availability of a wide range of services to subscribers at reasonable rates and upon reasonable terms and conditions;
(2) To assure Reynoldsburg is in the forefront of technology infrastructure for the "information superhighway" and that access to the same should be available to all citizens and businesses in Reynoldsburg at the earliest possible time;
(3) The promotion and the use of cable systems and other communications networks to enhance education in the schools;
(4) The promotion of increased public and educational access and programming, in terms of quality and amount;
(5) The promotion of the availability of a wide variety of services, including interactive services from enhanced two-way systems;
(6) To promote the interconnection and opening of all communications networks, including the cable systems;
(7) The promotion of competition in the provision, of services, both among operators and with other service providers; and
(8) To provide an atmosphere and regulatory environment which provides the opportunity for operators to earn a fair return and promotes innovation and investment.
(Ord. 91-99. Passed 7-26-99.)