Turner service to continue past deadline
EPHRATA — Broadcasts of channels like CNN and TBS on Grant County's fiber optic network will not be be interrupted next week, while two video service providers work to receive their own equipment.
Turner Broadcasting had been scheduled to turn off service to both Donobi, Inc. and VIB-TV HomeNet on Feb. 7, but extended that deadline last week for an additional three months.
According to PUD figures, approximately 550 people subscribe to video services on the Zipp network.
Grant County Public Utility District officials were notified by Turner Jan. 28 that Turner would not de-authorize the PUD's signal until April 30, while the two service providers make arrangements to receive the networks using their own equipment.
Representatives from both service providers have said they are working with Turner so their service is not interrupted. Donobi and VIB are being required to get their own reception equipment because Turner will not allow the PUD to distribute the channels on the fiber optic network without adhering to certain conditions.
The PUD first became aware of the situation in October when Turner representatives sent a letter stating that the PUD did not have the authority to distribute Turner networks. Turner initially told the PUD that it would allow the PUD to continue distributing the networks as long as the PUD assumed all responsibility for contracts between Turner and the two video service providers.
As a municipal corporation, PUD officials have said in the last month that they cannot comply with Turner's conditions and cannot guarantee the payment obligations and debt of Donobi and VIB.
The two service providers will continue to receive Turner's signal on PUD equipment until they reach an agreement with Turner, PUD Fiber Account Manager Eric Briggs said this week.
While Turner service will not be interrupted to fiber optic video subscribers, Donobi is still in danger of losing all services unless the company pays more than $200,000 in payments and a deposit by next Friday.
The PUD is requiring the company to make full payment of $211,481.39, or service to all subscribers could be shut off Feb. 11. According to PUD officials, the payment was triggered when Donobi's credit score dropped below a certain level accepted by PUD policy.
Donobi Chief Executive Officer Bill Wright addressed the PUD commission at Monday's meeting, asking for some time to work through the issue. PUD attorney Ray Foianini told the PUD commission on Monday, that the utility's customer service policy is clear and would take action from the commission to alter that policy.
Donobi has requested to meet with the PUD hearings officer to discuss the issue.