Cable commission reports no Verizon franchise application; TPO talks continue, commissioners weigh an RFP

At the April 24 Wilmington Cable, Video and Telecommunications Commission meeting, Commissioner Simmons reported no application from Verizon for cable franchising and gave a brief status update on the commission’s search for a third-party operator (TPO).

"As of right now, we're kinda still in the same place that we're at," Commissioner Simmons said, adding the commission is in active discussions with several potential vendors and is considering a one-year agreement that would not require an RFP.

Commissioner Daniel Walker said the commission should consider issuing a formal RFP to outline requirements and cautioned against making commitments before the commission’s budget position is clarified. Walker also suggested the commission consider an executive session at a future meeting to discuss negotiation strategy where confidentiality may be appropriate.

No vendor was selected and no formal franchising application had been filed as of the meeting. Commissioners did not vote on an RFP or move into an executive session during this session.