Qwest Cable Television Services Franchise

The City of Portland approved a cable franchise agreement with Qwest for cable services in Portland on November 14, 2007. The Qwest cable franchise took effect January 13, 2008. Qwest is required to identify a specific service date (a date for offering cable service) within 18 months (or no later than July 13, 2009). A failure by Qwest to build will result in expiration of the franchise in 72 months.

On December 18, 2007 Qwest announced its decision not to carry forward and offer cable services in Portland, based on opinions expressed by Qwest's new CEO Ed Mueller.

Qwest Franchise Agreement (.pdf)

BACKGROUND RESOURCES:

At its September 17, 2007 meeting, the Mt. Hood Cable Regulatory Commission (MHCRC) voted to recommend that the Portland City Council approve a franchise agreement with Qwest for cable television services in Portland. The Portland City Council passed Ordinance No. 181414 on November 14, 2007 granting a franchise to Qwest to operate a cable system in the City of Portland.

• Exhibit A - PDX-MHCRC-Qwest Cable Services Franchise
• Exhibit B – Summary of Public Comments – Proposed Qwest Franchise
• Exhibit C – Memorandum, Ben Walters to David Olson (August 14, 2007)
• Exhibit D – Memorandum, Ben Walters to David Olson (August 20, 2007)

Public Hearing - July 30, 2007

July 30, 2007 Public Hearing Meeting Minutes.

Draft Franchise Agreement (July 2007) (.pdf)

Map of Proposed Service Area (.pdf)

Summary of Franchise Components and Comparison Chart with Comcast Franchise (.pdf)

VIDEO: As part of the franchise negotiation process Qwest representatives attended a regularly scheduled MHCRC meeting to informally present on its proposed services and technology structure. The presentation was produced by Portland Community Media and can be viewed by clicking here. (Video Player download here)