CABLE TELEVISION REVIEW COMMISSION FACT SHEET

The San Diego County Cable Television Review Commission is an independent, administrative body empowered to investigate, conduct hearings, and render administrative decisions on cable television matters in the unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The Cable Franchise Administrator serves as Executive Officer of the Review Commission. The Cable Franchise Administrator is a County staff position in the Department of Media and Public Relations.

Established in the 1960s, the Commission is responsible for reviewing and recommending that the Board of Supervisors approve cable television franchise applications filed with the County. Once a cable operator is franchised, the Commission makes sure that franchised operators follow all terms of their agreements. The Commission also monitors customer service issues, and approves transfers of ownership.

The Commission traditionally has reviewed and approved all cable television rates. However, most cable rates have been deregulated by the Federal Telecommunication Act of 1996. Specific duties of the Review Commission are set forth in County Administrative Code Section 630.8

Decisions made by the Review Commission become final and binding on the parties involved if not appealed to the Board of Supervisors within thirty calendar days. The procedure for appeal, as well as general provisions regarding the regulation of cable television systems, are codified in San Diego County Code Sections 21.1601-21.1677.

The Commission consists of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Five Commissioners are nominated by each of the five individual Supervisors. The sixth member is nominated by the Chairperson of the Board and the seventh member is nominated by the entire Board. Commission terms run for three years or until the nominating Supervisor ceases to hold office.

The Review Commission currently meets quarterly, on the second Monday of January, April, July and October. The Chairperson may call for additional meetings if necessary.

With the increase of competition and convergence of cable television, Internet and telephone technologies, the Review Commission recently adopted a proposal to change its name to the "Cable Television and Telecommunications Review Commission" and to assume the duty to "review and report to the Board of Supervisors on technological, regulatory and legal developments in telecommunications."

CURRENT CABLE TELEVISION REVIEW COMMISSIONERS

Note: One Commission seat is vacant pending appointment.

CABLE TELEVISION REVIEW COMMISSION CONTACT INFORMATION

Customers living in an incorporated City (such as the City of San Diego) should contact the cable office in that city. Contact information should be printed on the customer's cable television bill.

The County Review Commission may be reached by the following methods:

Mail:
Cable Franchise Administrator
County Administration Center
1600 Pacific Highway, Room 208 (MS-A359)
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: (619) 595-4650
Fax: (619) 595-4664
Email: bfrasech@co.san-diego.ca.us