February 26,, 2024
RE: Cable Television Complaints
The Department of Commerce has regulated Ohio’s Cable TV industry since 2007. In the 16 years since issuing our first authorization, we have authorized 53 cable tv companies to provide service in Ohio, processed over 250 amendments and logged almost 20,000 complaints against cable tv providers. At least one of our authorized cable companies offers cable tv service in your community.
The Video Service Authorization Program administers the cable law on behalf of the Director of Commerce. The Program offers local governments and consumers resources and information about the standard of cable service they should expect. As the cable industry continues to evolve, our liaison efforts are more important than ever. We encourage consumers to reach out with questions, concerns, and comments if they are not receiving clarity or resolution from their cable tv service provider.
Our Cable TV Consumer Hotline (877) 207-2225 can help you and your residents with cable tv related complaints such as who owns a down or unburied cable line, billing disputes, poor picture quality, equipment malfunctions, canceled or missed service appointments and many other cable tv related concerns. The Program does not have the authority to regulate the rates offered by cable tv providers nor do we regulate satellite companies, internet service, or streaming services like Netflix and HULU.
Below you will find consumer literature concerning the Cable TV Consumer Hotline. I ask that you display these materials in your office or in other high traffic areas. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at 614-995-1720 or vog.oiho.moc@hcsuaP.adniL.
Sincerely,
Linda L. Pausch, Program Administrator
History
Miami Valley Communications Council is a municipal communications and technology organization representing the eight member cities of Centerville, Germantown, Kettering, Miamisburg, Moraine, Oakwood, Springboro and West Carrollton. The council also has affiliate agreements with other Miami Valley cities. MVCC was formed in 1975 as a council of governments to monitor, regulate, and administer common cable television franchise agreements, manage the operation of the council's cable access television channels, and develop and implement intergovernmental projects designed to strengthen communications between member cities and their citizens. A policy-making body consisting of delegates representing member cities governs the council.
Funding
MVCC is funded through franchise fees paid by the cable service provider. Franchise fees are rent that the cable company pays for placing its wires over or under the public rights-of-way (streets.) MVCC uses these franchise fees to support its community access television activities, cooperative intergovernmental projects, and to explore new and changing technologies that will benefit member communities. The council, in turn, provides many services to our communities at little or no cost.