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TaskForceDraft

Although we have not seen official documents, apparently Council members Don Marr and Kyle Cook have been named to select the co-chairs of the Task Force. The final resolution for Task Force as prepared for the Feb. 3 Council agenda, identifies telecommunications strategic planning and policy formation as specific aims. (We erred previously in reporting that the Task Force would have a role in "implementing" the strategy and policy. Evidently, that determination will be made by the Task Force.) The Fayetteville city limits appears to the primary scope of the Task Force, although it also will consider a strategy for developing a region-wide infrastructure and regulatory framework. (See our reservations about the regional aspects in our previous TaskForceCommentary.) The suggested termination date for the Task Force report is December 2004, however, there are no specifics yet on a schedule to select the co-chairs and members of the Task Force. (Although not included in the final Resolution, the original timetable proposed by the Telecom Board was: February 3, 2004 --Resolution before City Council; February 10, 2004 -- Co-Chairs Appointed; March 1, 2004 --Full Task Force Named.) Budget and City staffing considerations evidently will be determined jointly by the Task Force and the City. Earnest has mentioned a potential need for a consultant, as well as a stipulation that the Task Force may request funds from the Council. TelecomWatch is delighted to see this resolution approved by the Council, and we will report ( and support) its progress as announcements are made.

Attach:Finalresolution-EarnesJan15-04.pdf

Watch Master footnote: Specifications for the City's proposed "Technology and Telecommunications Infrastructure Task Force" were further defined at a special workshop held by the Telecommunications Board on January 8,2004. The Board and City CAO Earnest discussed and reorganized a draft "charge" for the Task Force, in which she and City CAO Hugh Earnest indicated that the Task Force would be developed jointly by the Telecom Board and City staff. (See TaskForceCharge1) The proposed Task Force (TaskForceCharge1)stemmed from the extended Cox franchise agreement approved by the Council in October. (See also: AmendedResolution, ProposedAgreement, TelcomBoardMeetingPackets, OctoberMinutes, TaskForceCommentary, CitySummary, Broad public participation is anticipated in the Task Force . (More to come at MarrTaskForceResolution?)