So here I am — contemplating my ballot for the Denver municipal election while watching the French Open on NBC — when suddenly I realize….
As a Comcast customer in Denver, I don’t get The Tennis Channel. Meaning, I’ve missed most of the best coverage.
It’s petty. I know. Still, I’m irked that Comcast won’t carry “The Tennis,” as my friend calls it. “Turn on The Tennis,” she says. “I don’t have The Tennis,” I say, dispirited.
Shouldn’t it be a public utility, like water?
I’ve complained to Comcast. They don’t care what I think. So I will complain to city hall. They don’t care either. But, weirdly, they have leverage.
Every 10-to-15 years Comcast has to negotiate a new franchise agreement with Denver’s Office of Telecommunications, an independent regulatory agency that answers to the mayor and city council. Comcast’s renewal process started earlier this year.
Suddenly I realize that my top priority for local elected officials is: Get me The Tennis!
Very possibly this falls within the scope of mayor-council powers and duties. In fact, city hall has more influence over Denver’s cable television franchise than they have over creationism in public schools, the farcical campaign issue du jour.
I want The Tennis. And I vote.
Trifling. But that’s what this election is about. Vincent Carroll confronts the crappy choice for mayor here.
