Approval of the 2025 Northwest Suburbs Cable Communications Commission and Media Audit Report

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [00:12:21,570] · Seconded by Unknown [00:12:22,870]

The audit report was presented by Andy Grice of Creative Planning Bergen CDB. The report provided a clean, unmodified opinion and no findings of non-compliance with Minnesota state statutes. Financial performance for 2025 showed the governmental fund outperforming its budget by $625,000, ending with a $5.3 million balance, while the media operations fund achieved a $333,000 surplus. Discussion included questions about comparative investment income analysis and the recurring finding of a lack of segregation of duties due to small staff size, for which mitigating controls are in place.

Appointment of Nominating Committee (Commission)

Dissent: None

Moved by Adam [00:14:13,470] · Seconded by Unknown [00:14:15,100]

The Chair introduced the need to appoint three members to the nominating committee to prepare a slate of officers for the upcoming November meeting. It was noted that there would be at least three vacancies on the Executive Committee due to the passing of Commissioner Roger Bergman, the retirement of Carol Morris, and the retirement of Darryl Santos. Commissioners interested in leadership positions were encouraged to contact staff or committee members.

Presentation and Approval of the 2027 Northwest Suburbs Cable Communications Commission Budget

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [00:20:50,530] · Seconded by Unknown [00:20:52,100]

Shannon presented the 2027 budget, highlighting its favorable outlook compared to previous years, attributed to a slower decline in revenue, increased PEG fees from a franchise extension, strategic investment changes, and significant expense reductions. The budget projects $3.4 million in revenue, with the largest expense being the $2.696 million allocation to Media. Increased legal services for broadband franchising and capital requests for air conditioners were noted. Commissioners expressed gratitude for the staff's efforts in navigating difficult budget cycles and making necessary, though challenging, decisions.

Resolution Accepting Donations of CC Media

Dissent: None

Moved by Darryl [00:32:14,470] · Seconded by Unknown [00:32:56,370]

Shannon presented a resolution to accept donations received by CC Media since May, totaling $75. Routine donors Fatima Hajji Taki and Alicia Cameron, along with a one-time donor Thaddeus Stryker, were acknowledged. The upcoming 'Give to the Max Day' was mentioned as an opportunity for further fundraising. A board member expressed thanks to the voluntary donors.

Appointment of the Nominating Committee (Media Board)

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [00:34:14,500] · Seconded by Unknown [00:34:15,500]

The process for electing Media Board officers every two years was outlined, requiring a nominating committee to propose a slate for the November meeting. Beth Kramer (New Hope), Michael (Staff At-Large), and Bob Woods (At-Large) were proposed and approved to serve on this committee. It was noted that Darryl Santos would be rotating off the Executive Committee, creating at least one vacancy.

Presentation and Approval of Media Board 2027 Budget

Dissent: Eric, Michael

Moved by Adam [00:47:54,770] · Seconded by Unknown [00:48:05,230]

Shannon presented the 2027 Media Board budget, emphasizing a more favorable process than in prior years. Key points included a proposed 5% cost of living increase for staff (after no increase last year) and the creation of a new Development Director position to focus on fundraising and grant writing. Capital requests included ADA compliance for audio descriptions, Wi-Fi replacement, control room upgrades for one-person operation, new production truck generators, podcast room upgrades, and an archive conversion room. Concerns were raised by Eric about the 5% COL increase not visibly aligning with all departmental salary lines in the budget document, and by Michael regarding the lack of a clear technology roadmap for control room upgrades. A motion to refer the budget to the executive committee for further discussion failed, leading to an immediate vote for approval.