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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Whom should I contact if I have problems with my cable TV, IP based phone service, or cable modem based Internet service?
A: You should contact your service provider.
Verizon http://www22.verizon.com/residential/fiostv 1-800-837-4966
Comcast www.comcast.com 1-800-266-2278
Q: What if the problem is not resolved?
A: You should contact the Office of Cable Television at the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, which can be reached at (973)648-2670 or (800)624-0331, www.state.nj.us/bpu/assistance.
Q: Shouldn't I contact the Franklin Township Cable TV Advisory Committee when I have problems?
A: The Cable Committee does not negotiate directly with service providers or the BPU on behalf of individual residents. However, the Cable Committee’s role is to monitor the service provided to residents. For this reason, it is a good reason to keep the committee informed of unresolved issues.
Q: I'm paying much more for cable than I really want to. Are there ways I can reduce my cable bill?
A: Review the services for which you currently pay and see if you can switch to a plan with fewer channels.
Also, many homes have a cable box which has a monthly fee. This may not be necessary. If you use the following services, then you DO need a cable box: premium channels (such as HBO and Showtime), the on-screen cable guide, pay-per-view or on-demand movies/shows.
If you do not use these services, then you might not need your cable box.
Note that many HD TVs can receive digital high-definition channels when plugged right into the cable wall jack, but before deciding to remove your cable box run the following experiment:
- Plug your TV directly into the cable wall jack (bypassing your cable box).
- Have your TV run a channel scan (refer to your TV manual if you’re not sure how to do this).
- Check to see if you can still access all the cable services you currently use.
Q: Are there any discounts available for low-income or senior citizens?
A: Comcast does provide a discount on its limited basic service for residents who satisfy PAAD eligibility requirements. The application form is available through Comcast customer service at 1-800-COMCAST. Copies of this form are also available at the Franklin Township Senior/Community Center.
Q: Why is Comcast the Franklin Township cable service provider?
A: The Township Council negotiated a contract with RCN in 1999. Patriot took over from RCN in 2003, operating under the same contract. Patriot was sold to Comcast in 2007. Comcast now operates in Franklin by the same 1999 contract with RCN, which terminates in 2014.
Q: What is the difference between cable and FIOS? When will FIOS be available throughout Franklin Township?
A: Cable and FIOS are two different technologies. Also, cable service is provided through contracts with individual municipalities, whereas FIOS service is chartered by the state and operates across municipal boundaries.
Verizon is in the process of establishing FIOS service in Franklin, but the mechanical aspects of the service (such as laying wire) vary by area. Thus a time frame for full service in Franklin cannot be determined at this point.
Q: What is the role of the Cable Television Advisory Committee?
A: Our primary role is to advise the Franklin Township Council on all aspects of cable and other franchise services in the Township. To this end, we survey the community about service needs, monitor providers to ensure compliance with contract/franchise requirements and state regulations, and participate in the contract/franchise process as the Council determines.
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