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While some of these functions could be done with little financial resources, others required some expenditure. For example, a compilation of existing franchises, cities with similar franchises, and cities with expiring franchises could be done relatively inexpensively. Other functions, like collecting, analyzing and distributing information about the FCC, the PUC or the Texas legislature require assistance and expertise. To that end, the Board adopted a budget of $200,000 for the first year, based upon the coalition projects approved by the Board.

The initial assessment was set at 54 per capita for each city wishing to join. All Texas cities were invited to become a part of this new organization.

At the May 3 rd meeting it was also announced that the Board had decided any vote taken by the Board would be on the basis of Aone city-one vote@. There was also an announcement that there a fourth committee for gas utility franchise issues was formed, but lacked a chair. Mayor Don Chovanec of La Grange was volunteered for this position.

The city representatives were again reminded that the organization was for the sole benefit of cities, and it was presumed that all representatives were attending in that capacity, and not for purposes of gathering intelligence for those serving other and potentially adverse interests. Since this organization is for the benefit of cities, the involvement of as many cities as possible is desirable, so that the needs of as many cities as possible can be met.

An invitation was sent to every Texas city to become a member of this organization. The invitation remains open. Since that beginning, TCCFUI has filed comments and otherwise participated in matters at the FCC, PUC and Railroad Commission. We have followed and participated in the legislative process in both Washington D.C. and Austin. We have prepared model franchises and other ordinances and issued position papers. We have held five seminars and have resolved to continue holding a major seminar on an annual basis. We have participated in numerous court proceedings. We have started a web page to be more accessible to the membership and to have the members more accessible to each other.

We have also constantly grown. Presently there are approximately 110 member cities. Each year the Board approves a new budget and determines a new assessment. Members continuing in TCCFUI have been assessed a 34 per capita fee for this year. A copy of the budget can be obtained from Jay Doegey at the City of Arlington. All of these benefits and activities exist without any staff or overhead. Members are encouraged to volunteer for project of interest to their city. Any city can be a member, but only cities are members. Cities interested in joining may want to consider the adoption of the resolution located on the TCCFUI website (www.tccfui.org). As this suggests were are developing a web site to more accurately and quickly disseminate information to our membership, as well have a place for the storage and downloading of documents, etc.