Sparta Sick of Static: Files Complaint on Service Electric

After getting static from Service Electric Cable Television for months, the Sparta Township Council has directed the township attorney to file a complaint with the state utility regulators.

The council has been trying since last fall to get a representative of the cable company to discuss in a public meeting the its performance during Superstorm Sandy.

Township attorney Thomas Ryan told the council last week that, once again, the company’s attorney said a representative would be willing to meet with individual council members or a small group of council members in private, but would not agree to a public meeting.

“What can we do?” asked Deputy Mayor Molly Whilesmith.

Ryan said the township could file a complaint with the state Board of Public Utilities, an action the frustrated council supported. Ryan said previously that a discussion with Service Electric about its performance would not be a topic eligible for an executive session.

The township was without cable service for a week or more following Sandy and the council has been seeking a meeting to discuss  how such situation could be avoided and a possible refund for Sparta residents.

Service Electric has a 10-year contract with Sparta.

Ryan said the contract calls for the company to meet with township officials twice a year to discuss performance issues, but does not specify whether that meeting could be with a single council member, the township manger or a  committee of the council.

Whilesmith said it seemed to her that such a meeting would include the full council, and be held in a public meeting.

Ryan said that is the point of contention with the cable company. Their attorney insists that they can meet with one councilmember or a group in private and still meet the requirements of the contract.