The Parks, Public Utilities, and Technology Committee on May 25 recommended adoption of Resolution 32171 to commence the City of Seattle’s cable franchise renewal process with Astound Communications. The committee’s recommendation passed 5-0 and will be transmitted to the full council.

Why it matters: Under federal law (the Cable Act and Telecommunications Act), cable providers must hold franchise authority agreements to operate in municipal rights-of-way. A formal local process is customarily started by council resolution and initiates a multi-year renewal negotiation and review process that covers franchise fees, public educational and governmental (PEG) funding, consumer protections and other local priorities.

Seattle IT’s digital equity and broadband manager, John Morrison Winters, told the committee that Astound sent the city a letter expressing its intent to renew on December 12, 2024, and federal law gives the city six months from that notice to commence renewal proceedings. Morrison Winters described the resolution as the procedural step to “kick off” the renewal process and noted the city typically renews franchises on roughly 10-year cycles.

He also noted the renewal process typically takes about three years and that the city is concurrently working on Comcast’s franchise renewal. The resolution does not set final franchise terms; it begins the city’s formal process and establishes timing for staff and council engagement.

Formal action: Committee Chair Joy Hollingsworth moved the recommendation; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call. Council Members Kettle, Rivera, Strauss, Council President Nelson and Chair Hollingsworth voted in favor. The committee recommendation will be transmitted to the City Council meeting on 06/03/2025 for final action.

Next steps: City staff will proceed with the franchise renewal process, public engagement and legal review as required under federal and local procedures. The committee was told to expect follow-up briefings during the renewal timeline.