§ 12-29. Continuity of service mandatory.

(A)

It is the right of each subscriber to receive all available services requested from the franchisee as long as such subscriber's financial and other obligations to the franchisee are satisfied.

(B)

In the event of a termination or transfer of a franchise for whatever reason, the franchisee shall cooperate with the County to ensure that all subscribers receive continuous, uninterrupted service regardless of the circumstances. The franchisee shall cooperate with the County to operate the cable system for a temporary period following termination or transfer as necessary to maintain continuity of service to all subscribers. However, the temporary period shall not exceed six (6) months without the franchisee's written consent. During such period, the cable system shall be operated under such terms and conditions as the County and the franchisee may agree, or such other terms and conditions that will continue, to the extent possible, the same level of service to subscribers and that will provide reasonable compensation to the franchisee.

(C)

In the event a franchisee fails to operate the cable system for seven (7) consecutive days without prior approval of the County or without just cause, the County may, at its option, operate the system or designate an operator until such time as the franchisee restores service or until a permanent operator is selected. If the County decides to pursue such option, the franchisee shall reimburse the County for all costs or damages resulting from the franchisee's failure to perform that are in excess of the revenues from the system received by the County. Additionally, the franchisee shall cooperate with the County to allow the County's employees and/or agents free access to the franchisee's facilities and premises for purposes of continuing system operation.

(Ord. No. 98-20, § 1, 9-15-98)