"The Telecommunications Act of 1996: Challenges and Opportunities for Municipalities," a one-day seminar sponsored by the Illinois Municipal League, will be held Friday, June 28, at Jumer's Hotel in Bloomington. The seminar is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

On February 8, 1996, the long awaited Telecommunications Act of 1996 became law. It presents municipalities with many new challenges and opportunities. Under the Act, local governments retain the right to control and impose fees for the use of public rights-of-way by cable and telecommunications providers. Because the law will have a substantial impact on local governments, telecommunications planning should become a top priority for municipalities. Local officials will play a key role in defining parameters and setting policies to ensure that community needs are considered and protected.

The seminar will address the following:
• Review of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 - The Impact on Cities.
• What Immediate Steps Should Cities be Taking?
• How Can Cities Benefit from the Act?
• What Is Prohibited by the Act?
• Short and Long-Term Municipal Telecommunications Planning - How and Why?
• The Convergence of Cable Television, Telephone and Telecommunications Providers - Sorting It All Out.

The registration fee for the Telecommunications seminar is $55, which includes a luncheon, coffee and rolls and break refreshments, and handout materials. To register or for more information, call the Municipal League office at (217)525-1220. •

June 1996 / Illinois Municipal Review / Page 25