Portage opposes state bill that exempts streaming services from paying to maintain cable

PORTAGE, MI -- Like city streets or sidewalks, telecommunications cables buried underground or running into homes are public utilities owned by taxpayers. Cities across the state collect more than $100 million from cable companies for the use of those cables every year, Portage City Manager Pat McGinnis said. In turn, cities maintain them, and can use extra money to support public services and local video programming. For the Southwest Michigan city of Portage, this represents a $675,000 revenue stream. The money is used to livestream public meetings, produce promotional videos...