Cable companies use public property (the “public right-of-way” – city/county streets, sidewalks, easements, etc.) to build and operate their for-profit cable communications businesses. In exchange for the use of the public right-of-way, a company must receive a cable services franchise agreement from the local government entity, which includes certain public benefit obligations, safeguards and requirements. The MHCRC was created by the Cities of Fairview, Gresham, Portland, Troutdale and Wood Village and Multnomah County, Oregon, (“Jurisdictions”) in order to negotiate and collectively manage franchise agreements on the Jurisdictions’ behalf.

Cable TV Franchise Agreements overseen by the MHCRC include: