(A) An application fee shall not be deemed to be “franchise fees” within the meaning of § 622 of the Cable Act (47 U.S.C. § 542), and such payments shall not be deemed to be:
(1) “Payments in kind” or any involuntary payments chargeable against the compensation to be paid to the county by grantee; or
(2) Part of the compensation to be paid to the county by grantee pursuant to this chapter or a franchise agreement.
(B) All applicants for an initial franchise shall submit an application fee of $9,500 to compensate the county for its costs in reviewing, preparing and awarding a franchise. Consistent with the Cable Act, all such fees shall not constitute or be credited towards a grantee’s franchise fee obligation.
(C) The county reserves the right, unless prohibited by applicable law, to require a grantee to pay the incidental costs of the franchise renewal and negotiation process. Incidental costs include staff time, professional fees and administrative costs as stated in the franchise agreement.
(Ord. passed 12-19-2005)