VENTURA : Hikes in Cable Bills Bring Complaints

Irate residents flooded Ventura City Hall with telephone calls Friday after finding increases in their monthly bills from Century Cable.

The increases are a result of new federal regulations aimed at curbing the cost of basic cable service. But cable companies are recovering some of their losses by charging more for the next level of programming.

Ventura city officials will decide soon whether to apply to the Federal Communications Commission for the right to regulate basic rates. Cities have until Oct. 1 to seek regulatory control. If approved by the FCC, the earliest Ventura city leaders could receive authority would be January or February of next year, city officials said.

Richard Newsham, who works in the city’s information office, said he spent Friday afternoon answering questions from angry cable subscribers. About 50 to 60 people phoned in, he said.

“Right now the city has no authority,” Newsham explained patiently to a caller. “Unfortunately, you’re complaining to the wrong agency.”

Newsham advised callers to write complaint letters to Century Cable and Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley).

“Congress still has the authority to make changes,” he told callers. “Until then, you’re going to have to pay your bill or disconnect.”

Elaina Fletcher, 32, said she was shocked when she opened her mail Friday. Her monthly bill jumped from $18.32 to $26.95. “I think it’s ridiculous,” she said.

Will Morter, 72, said his bill increased by $2.32 a month. “I was going to cancel the cable but my wife talked me out of it,” he said.

The city grants franchises to Avenue Cable and Century Cable companies, Newsham said. Only Century Cable has raised its rates so far. Century Cable officials were unavailable for comment Friday afternoon.