HomeMy WebLinkAboutReg 2025-10-20 Item 4F - Ordinance - Franchise Agreement with Level 3 CommunicationsCOUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS
Initials
Meeting Date
Prepared by
Mayor's revieav
Council revieav
10/13/25
ESC
10/20/25
ESC
ITEM INFORMATION
ITEM No.
4.F.
STAFF SPONSOR: ERIC COMPTON
ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE: 10/13/25
AGENDA ITEM TITLE Ordinance Granting a Non -Exclusive Franchise Agreement to Level 3
Communications
CATEGORY ❑ Discussion
Mtg Date
❑ Motion
Mtg Date
❑ Resolution
Mtg Date
® Ordinance
Mtg Date 10/13/25
❑ Bid Award
Mtg Date
❑ Public Hearing
Mtg Date
❑ Other
Mtg Date
SPONSOR ❑ Council ® Mayor ❑ Admin Svcs ❑ DCD ❑ Finance ❑ Fire ❑ P&R ❑ Police ❑ PIV
SPONSOR'S
SUMMARY
Level 3 Communications is a business oriented internet service provider wanting to
upgrade and expand their network in Tukwila. Council is being asked to approve the new
ordinance for the franchise agreement that will allow Level 3 Communications to expand
their network into Tukwila and provide connectivity for Tukwila Businesses.
REVIEWED BY
❑ Trans&Infrastructure Svcs ❑ Community Svcs/Safety ❑ Finance & Governance ❑ Planning & Community Dev.
❑ LTAC
DATE:
❑ Arts Comm.
❑ Parks Comm. ❑ Planning Comm.
COMMITTEE CHAIR:
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SPONSOR/ADMIN. Technology and Innovation Services / Joel Bush
COMMII°IEE Unanimous Approval; Forward to Committee of the Whole
COST IMPACT / FUND SOURCE
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED
$o
AMOUNT BUDGETED
$o
APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
$o
Fund Source: No FUNDING REQUIRED
Comments: Under the terms of the Franchise, Level 3 Communications is required to pay a $6100
MTG. DATE
10/13/25
RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
Forward to next Regular Meeting
10/20/25
MTG. DATE
ATTACHMENTS
10/13/25
Informational Memorandum dated 09/16/25
Draft Telecom Franchise Agreement Level 3 Communications
Tukwila Franchise Application -Level 3 Communications
Minutes from the 9/22 T&I Committee Meeting
10/20/25
Final ordinance
273
III
W as p nigtor
Ordinance e; N o
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
GRANTING TO LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS, LLC, A
DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND ITS
AFFILIATES, SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, THE RIGHT,
PRIVILEGE, AUTHORITY AND NONEXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE
FOR FIVE YEARS, TO CONSTRUCT, MAINTAIN, OPERATE,
REPLACE AND REPAIR A TELECOMMUNICATIONS
NETWORK, IN, ACROSS, OVER, ALONG, UNDER, THROUGH
AND BELOW CERTAIN DESIGNATED PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF -
WAY OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON; PROVIDING
FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, Level 3 Communications, LLC, a Delaware Limited Liability Company,
and its affiliates ("Franchisee") doing business in the State of Washington as "Level 3",
has applied for a non-exclusive telecommunications franchise to construct, operate, and
maintain telecommunications facilities upon, in, under, across, along, and over certain
City rights -of -way; and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to execute a new nonexclusive franchise (this
"Franchise") for purposes of operating and maintaining a telecommunications network;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has the authority to grant franchises for the use of its
streets and other public properties pursuant to RCW 35A.47.040; and
WHEREAS, the City is willing to grant the rights requested by Franchisee for a
telecommunications franchise subject to certain terms and conditions, which are
acceptable to both parties.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
2025 Legislation: Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
Staff: E. Compton
1 of 3
274
Section 1. Franchise Granted. The City of Tukwila, hereby grants a
telecommunications franchise, attached and incorporated as Exhibit A, to Franchisee,
AND ITS AFFILIATES. The term of this franchise shall be for five (5) years, commencing
on the date the last party executes the franchise.
Section 2. Terms & Conditions. The terms and conditions governing the franchise
specified in Section 1. shall be those set forth on Attachment A to this Ordinance and
incorporated herein by this reference as if set forth in full.
Section 3. Deadline for Acceptance. The rights and privileges granted pursuant to
this Ordinance shall not become effective until its terms and conditions are accepted by
Level 3 Communications, LLC. Such acceptance shall contain any required letter of
credit, evidence of insurance, all applicable fees pursuant to Section 14. of the
Franchise, and shall be filed with the City Clerk within sixty (60) days after the effective
date of this Ordinance. Such instrument shall conform substantially to Attachment B, and
evidence the unconditional acceptance of the terms hereof and a promise to comply with
and abide by the provisions, terms and conditions hereof.
Section 4. Correction. The City Clerk are authorized to make necessary corrections
to this ordinance, including the correction of clerical errors; references to other local, state
or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance numbering and
section/subsection numbering.
Section 5. Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance
should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other
section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance.
Section 6. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published
in the official newspaper of the City, and shall take effect and be in full force five days
after passage and publication as provided by law. This Ordinance, being an exercise of
a power specifically delegated to the City legislative body, is not subject to referendum.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting thereof this day of , 2025.
[signatures to follow]
2025 Legislation: Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
Staff: E. Compton
2 of 3
275
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Andy Youn-Barnett, CMC, City Clerk Thomas McLeod, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY: Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
Office of the City Attorney
Attachment A: Telecommunication Franchise with Level 3
Attachment B: Statement of Acceptance with Level 3
2025 Legislation: Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
Staff: E. Compton
3 of 3
276
TELECOMMUNICATIONS FRANCHISE
Between
CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON
And
LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY
COMPANY, AND ITS AFFILIATES
This Telecommunications Franchise is entered into by and between the City of Tukwila,
Washington a municipal corporation, hereinafter ("the City") and Level 3 Communications, LLC,
a Delaware limited liability company, and its affiliates" who is hereinafter known as ("Level 3" or
"Franchisee"). The City and Franchisee are sometimes referred to hereinafter collectively as the
"parti es."
Section 1. Franchise Granted.
Section 1.1. Pursuant to RCW 35A.47.040, the City hereby grants to Level 3 a non-
exclusive franchise (the "Franchise") under the terms and conditions contained in this franchise
ordinance (the "Franchise Ordinance").
Section 1.2. This Franchise grants Franchisee the right, privilege, and authority to
construct, operate, maintain, replace, acquire, sell, lease and use all necessary Facilities for a
telecommunications network, in, under, on, across, over, through, along or below the public
Rights -of -Way located in the City of Tukwila, as approved pursuant to City permits issued
pursuant to this Franchise and in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local codes.
(a) "Facilities" as used in this Franchise means one or more elements of Franchisee's
telecommunications network, with all necessary cables, wires, conduits, ducts, pedestals,
antennas, electronics, and other necessary appurtenances; provided that placement by
Franchisee of new utility poles is specifically excluded unless otherwise specifically
approved by the City Equipment enclosures with air conditioning or other noise generating
equipment are also excluded from "Facilities," to the extent such equipment is located in
zoned residential areas For the purposes of this Franchise the term Facilities excludes
"microcell" facilities, "minor facilities," "small cell facilities," all as defined by RCW
80.36.375, and "macrocell" facilities, including towers and new base stations and other
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
1 of 36
277
similar facilities (except for fiber optic cables) used for the provision of "personal wireless
services" as defined by RCW 80.36.375.
(b) Public "Rights -of -Way" means land acquired or dedicated to the public or that is
hereafter dedicated to the public and maintained under public authority, including, but not
limited to, public streets or roads, highways, avenues, lanes, alleys, bridges, sidewalks,
utility easements and similar public property located within the franchise area but does not
include: State highways; land dedicated for road, streets, highways not opened and not
improved for motor vehicle use by the public; structures including poles and conduits
located within the right-of-way; federally granted trust lands or forest board trust lands;
lands owned or managed by the State Parks and Recreation Commission; federally granted
railroad rights -of -way acquired under 43 USC § 912 and related provisions of federal law
that are not open for vehicular use; or leasehold or City -owned property to which the City
holds fee title or other title and which is utilized for park, utility or a governmental or
proprietary use (for example, buildings, other City -owned physical facilities, parks, poles,
conduits, fixtures, real property or property rights owned or leased by the City not reserved
for transportation purposes).
Section 2. Authority Limited to Occupation of the Public Rights -of -Way
Section 2.1. The authority granted pursuant to this Franchise is a limited authorization
to occupy and use the Rights -of -Way throughout the City (the "Franchise Area"). No right to
install any facility, infrastructure, wires, lines, cables, or other equipment, on any City property
other than a Right -of -Way, or upon private property without the owner's consent, or upon any
public or privately owned utility poles or conduits is granted herein. Franchisee hereby represents
that it expects to provide the following services within the City: high speed data and fiber optic
services, internet protocol -based services, internet access services, conduit and dark fiber leasing,
telephone, data transport and other telecommunications and information services (the "Services").
Nothing contained herein shall be construed to grant or convey any right, title, or interest in the
Rights -of -Way of the City to the Franchisee other than for the purpose of providing the Services,
nor to subordinate the primary use of the Right -of -Way as a public thoroughfare. Franchisee may
not offer Cable Services as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 522(6) or personal wireless services, without
obtaining a new franchise or an amendment to this Franchise approved by the City Council.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
278
2 of 36
Section 2.2. Notwithstanding the existence of this Franchise, the installation,
construction, maintenance, use, operation, replacement and removal by Franchisee of any one or
more Franchise Facilities will be subject to all applicable provisions of Title 11 TMC, including,
but not limited to, the City's Infrastructure, Design, and Construction Standards, adopted by the
City's Public Works Department of Public Works, the terms and conditions of City Rights -of -Way
use permits issued pursuant to Title 11 TMC, the terms and conditions of City building permits
issued pursuant to Title 16 TMC, and all other applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Section 2.3. Franchisee shall have the right, without prior City approval, to offer or
provide capacity or bandwidth to its customers consistent with this Franchise, provided:
(a) Franchisee at all times retains exclusive ownership over its telecommunications
system, Facilities and Services and remains responsible for constructing, installing, and
maintaining its Facilities pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Franchise;
(b) Franchisee may not grant rights to any customer or lessee that are greater than any
rights Franchisee has pursuant to this Franchise, provided that leases or other commercial
arrangements for the use of the Facilities installed pursuant to this Franchise may extend
beyond the term of the Franchise;
(c) Such customer or lessee shall not be construed to be a third -party beneficiary under
this Franchise; and
(d) No such customer or lessee may use the telecommunications system or Services for
any purpose not authorized by this Franchise, unless such rights are otherwise granted by
the City.
Section 3. Non -Exclusive Franchise.
Section 3.1. This Franchise is granted to the Franchisee upon the express condition and
understanding that it shall be a non-exclusive Franchise which shall not in any manner prevent or
hinder the City from granting to other parties, at other times and under such terms and conditions
as the City, in its sole discretion, may deem appropriate, other franchises or similar use rights in,
on, to, across, over, upon, along, under or through any Public Rights -of -Way. Additionally, this
Franchise shall in no way prevent, inhibit or prohibit the City from using any of the roads, Public
Rights -of -Way or other public properties covered or affected by this Franchise, nor shall this
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
3 of 36
279
Franchise affect the City's jurisdiction, authority or power over any of them, in whole or in part.
The City expressly retains its power to make or perform any and all changes, relocations, repairs,
maintenance, establishments, improvements, dedications, or vacations of or to any of the roads,
Public Rights -of -Way or other public properties covered or affected by the Franchise as the City
may, in its sole and absolute discretion, deem fit, including the dedication, establishment,
maintenance and/or improvement of new Public Rights -of -Way, thoroughfares and other public
properties of every type and description.
Section 4. Term; Early Termination.
Section 4.1. The initial term of the Franchise shall be for a period of five (5) years (the
"Initial Term"), beginning on the Effective Date of the Franchise, and continuing until the date
that is one day prior to the fifth anniversary of the Effective Date (the "Initial Term Expiration
Date"), unless earlier terminated, revoked or modified pursuant to the provisions of this Franchise.
Section 4.2. The Franchise granted by this Franchise Ordinance shall automatically
renew on the fifth anniversary of the Effective Date with the same terms and conditions as set forth
in this Franchise, for one (1) additional five (5) year (the "Renewal Term," and, together with the
Initial Term, the "Term"), unless either party provides one hundred twenty (120) days written
notice to the other party to request an amendment to the Franchise.
Section 5. Location of Facilities.
Section 5.1. Franchisee is maintaining a telecommunications network, consisting of
Facilities within the City. Franchisee may locate its Facilities anywhere within the Franchise Area
consistent with the City's Infrastructure, Design and Construction standards and the Tukwila
Municipal Code and subject to the City's applicable permit requirements. Franchisee shall not
commence any construction or other similar work within a Public Right -of -Way until (i) a right-
of-way use permit authorizing such work has been issued by the City pursuant to Title 11 TMC
for a site -specific location or installation, including, but not limited to, relocations, and (ii) if
required by Title 16 TMC, a building permit authorizing such work has been issued by the City.
Section 5.2. To the extent that any Rights -of -Way within the Franchise Area are part of
the state highway system ("State Highways"), are considered managed access by the City and are
governed by the provisions of Chapter 47.24 RCW and applicable Washington State Department
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
280
4 of 36
of Transportation (WSDOT) regulations, Franchisee shall comply fully with said requirements in
addition to local ordinances and other applicable regulations. Franchisee specifically agrees that:
(a) any pavement trenching and restoration performed by Franchisee within State
Highways shall meet or exceed applicable WSDOT requirements;
(b) any portion of a State Highway damaged or injured by Franchisee shall be restored,
repaired and/or replaced by Franchisee to a condition that meets or exceeds applicable
WSDOT requirements; and
(c) without prejudice to any right or privilege of the City, WSDOT is authorized to
enforce in an action brought in the name of the State of Washington any condition of this
Franchise with respect to any portion of a State Highway.
Section 6. Relocation of Facilities
Section 6.1. The Franchisee agrees and covenants that, upon reasonable notice, it will
promptly, at its sole cost and expense, protect, support, temporarily disconnect, relocate, or remove
from any Public Right -of -Way any portion of the Franchisee Facilities when so required by the
City due to any of the following reasons: (i) traffic conditions, (ii) public safety, (iii) dedications
of new rights -of -way and the establishment and/or improvement thereof, (iv) widening and/or
improvement of existing rights -of -way, (v) right-of-way vacations, (vi) freeway construction,
(vii) change or establishment of road grade, or (viii) the construction of any public improvement
or structure by any governmental agency acting in a governmental capacity; PROVIDED that the
Franchisee shall generally have the privilege to temporarily bypass, in the authorized portion of
the same Public Right -of -Way, upon approval by the Public Works Director, any Franchisee
Facilities required to be temporarily disconnected or removed. The provisions of this Section 6.
apply to all Franchisee Facilities wheresoever situated within any Public Right -of -Way, regardless
of whether the Franchisee Facility at issue was originally placed in such location under the
authority of an easement or other property interest prior to the property becoming a Public Right -
of -Way. For the avoidance of doubt, such projects shall include any Right -of -Way improvement
project, even if the project entails, in part, related work funded and/or performed by or for a third
party, provided that such work is performed for the public benefit, and not primarily for the benefit
of a private entity, and shall not include, without limitation, any other improvements or repairs
undertaken by or for the sole benefit of third party private entities. Collectively all such projects
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
5 of 36
281
described in this Section 6.1 shall be considered a "Public Project". Except as otherwise provided
by law, the costs and expenses associated with relocations or disconnections ordered pursuant to
this Section 6.1 shall be borne by Franchisee. Nothing contained within this Franchise shall limit
Franchisee's ability to seek reimbursement for relocation costs when permitted by RCW
35.99.060.
Section 6.2. Upon the request of the City and in order to facilitate the design of City
improvements to Public Rights -of -Way, Franchisee agrees, at its sole cost and expense, to locate
and, if reasonably determined necessary by the City, to excavate and expose, at its sole cost and
expense, portions of the Franchisee Facilities for inspection so that the location of the facilities
may be taken into account in the Public Project design; PROVIDED, that Franchisee shall not be
required to excavate and expose the Franchisee Facilities for inspection unless Franchisee' s record
drawings and maps of the Franchisee Facilities submitted pursuant to Section 13. of this Franchise
are reasonably determined by the Public Works Director to be inadequate for the City' s planning
purposes. The decision to require relocation of any Franchisee Facilities in order to accommodate
Public Projects shall be made by the Public Works Director upon review of the location and
construction of the Franchisee Facilities at issue. Where the City incurs additional costs in
performing any maintenance, operation, or improvement of or to public facilities due to measures
taken by the City to avoid damaging or to otherwise accommodate one or more Franchisee
Facilities, Franchisee shall reimburse the City for the full amount of such additional costs promptly
upon receiving the City's invoice for same.
Section 6.3. Any condition or requirement imposed by the City upon any person or entity
(including, without limitation, any condition or requirement imposed pursuant to any contract or
in conjunction with approvals for permits for zoning, land use, construction or development) which
reasonably necessitates the relocation of any Franchisee Facilities for purposes of public welfare,
health, or safety shall constitute a required relocation for purposes of this Section 6.
Section 6.4. If the City determines that the Public Project necessitates the relocation of
Franchisee's Facilities, the City shall provide Franchisee in writing with a date by which the
relocation shall be completed (the "Relocation Date") consistent with RCW 35.99.060(2). In
calculating the Relocation Date, the City shall consult with Franchisee and consider the extent of
facilities to be relocated, the services requirements, and the construction sequence for the
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
282
6 of 36
relocation, within the City's overall project construction sequence and constraints, to safely
complete the relocation, and the City shall endeavor to provide Franchisee at least sixty (60) days'
notice prior to the Relocation Date. Franchisee shall complete the relocation by the Relocation
Date, unless the City or a reviewing court in collaboration with Franchisee and City establishes a
later date for completion, as described in RCW 35.99.060(2). To provide guidance on this notice
process, the City will make reasonable efforts to involve Franchisee in the predesign and design
phases of any Public Project. After receipt of the written notice containing the Relocation Date,
Franchisee shall relocate such facilities to accommodate the Public Project consistent with the
timeline provided by the City and at no charge or expense to the City. Such timeline may be
extended by a mutual agreement.
Section 6.5. If Franchisee fails to complete this work within the time prescribed above
and to the City's satisfaction, the City may cause such work to be done and bill the cost of the
work to Franchisee, including all costs and expenses incurred by the City due to Franchisee's
delay. In such event, the City shall not be liable for any damage to any portion of Franchisee's
Facilities. Within thirty (30) days of receipt of an itemized list of those costs, Franchisee shall pay
the City. In any event, if Franchisee fails to timely relocate, remove, replace, modify or disconnect
Franchisee's facilities and equipment, and that delay results in any delay damage accrued by or
against the City, Franchisee will be liable for all documented costs of construction delays
attributable to Franchisee's failure to timely act. Franchisee reserves the right to challenge any
determination by the City of costs for construction delays related to an alleged failure to act in
accordance with this Section 6.5.
Section 6.6. Franchisee will indemnify, defend, hold harmless, and pay the costs of
defending the City, in accordance with the provisions of Section 19. against any and all claims,
suits, actions, damages, or liabilities for delays on City construction projects caused by or arising
out of the failure of Franchisee to remove or relocate its Facilities in a timely manner; provided,
that Franchisee shall not be responsible for damages due to delays caused by circumstances beyond
the control of Franchisee or the negligence, willful misconduct, or unreasonable delay of the City
or any unrelated third party.
Section 6.7. In the event of an emergency posing a threat to public safety or welfare, or
in the event of an emergency beyond the control of the City which will result in severe financial
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
7 of 36
283
consequences to the City, which necessitates the relocation of Franchisee's Facilities, Franchisee
shall relocate its Facilities within the time period specified by the City.
Section 6.8. The provisions of this Section 6. shall in no manner preclude or restrict
Franchisee from making any arrangements it may deem appropriate when responding to a request
for relocation of its Facilities by any person or entity other than the City, where the facilities to be
constructed by said person or entity are not or will not become City -owned, operated, or
maintained facilities, provided that such arrangements do not unduly delay a City construction
proj ect.
Section 6.9. Whenever any person shall have obtained permission from the City to use
any Right -of -Way for the purpose of moving any building, Franchisee, upon thirty (30) days'
written notice from the City, shall raise, remove, or relocate to another part of the Right -of -Way,
at the expense of the person desiring to move the building, any of Franchisee's Facilities that may
obstruct the removal of such building.
Section 6.10. The provisions of this Section 6. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
abandonment or termination of this Franchise during such time as Franchisee continues to have
Facilities in the Rights -of -Way.
Section 7. Undergrounding of Facilities.
Section 7.1. Except as specifically authorized by permit of the City, Franchisee shall not
be permitted to erect poles. All Facilities shall be installed underground. Franchisee acknowledges
and agrees that if the City does not require the undergrounding of its Facilities at the time of permit
application, the City may, at any time in the future, require the conversion of Franchisee's aerial
facilities to underground installation at Franchisee's expense; provided that the City requires all
other wireline utilities, except electrical utilities, with aerial facilities in the area to convert such
facilities to underground installation at the same time. Unless otherwise permitted by the City,
Franchisee shall underground its Facilities in all new developments and subdivisions, and any
development or subdivision where all utilities, other than electrical utilities, are currently
underground.
Section 7.2. Whenever the City may require the undergrounding of the aerial utilities
(other than electrical utilities and personal wireless services facilities) in any area of the City,
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
284
8 of 36
Franchisee shall underground its aerial facilities in the manner specified by the City, concurrently
with and in the area of the other affected utilities. The location of any such relocated and
underground utilities shall be approved by the City. Where other utilities are present and involved
in the undergrounding project, Franchisee shall only be required to pay its fair share of common
costs borne by all utilities, in addition to the costs specifically attributable to the undergrounding
of Franchisee's own Facilities. "Common costs" shall include necessary costs not specifically
attributable to the undergrounding of any particular facility, such as costs for common trenching
and utility vaults. "Fair share" shall be determined for a project on the basis of the number and
size of Franchisee's Facilities being undergrounded in comparison to the total number and size of
all other utility facilities being undergrounded.
Section 7.3. To the extent Franchisee is providing Services to personal wireless services
facilities, Franchisee shall adhere to the design standards for such personal wireless services
facilities, and shall underground its Facilities and/or place its Facilities within the pole as may be
required by such design standards. For the purposes of clarity, this Section 7.3 does not require
undergrounding or interior placement of Facilities within the pole to the extent that the personal
wireless services facilities are located on utility poles that have pre-existing aerial wireline
facilities and provided such construction of Franchisee's Facilities continue to comply with
Section 7.1 or Section 7.2.
Section 7.4. Franchisee shall not remove any underground cable or conduit that requires
trenching or other opening of the Rights -of -Way along the extension of cable to be removed,
except as provided in this Section 7.4. Franchisee may remove any underground cable and other
related facilities from the Right -of -Way that has been installed in such a manner that it can be
removed without trenching or other opening of the Right -of -Way along the extension of cable to
be removed, or if otherwise permitted by the City. Franchisee may remove any underground cable
from the Rights -of -Way where reasonably necessary to replace, upgrade, or enhance its Facilities,
or pursuant to Section 6. When the City determines, in the City' s sole discretion, that Franchisee' s
underground Facilities must be removed in order to eliminate or prevent a hazardous condition,
Franchisee shall remove the cable or conduit at Franchisee's sole cost and expense. Franchisee
must apply and receive a permit, pursuant to Section 9. , prior to any such removal of underground
cable, conduit and other related facilities from the Right -of -Way and must provide as -built plans
and maps pursuant to Section 13.1.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
9 of 36
285
Section 7.5. Both the City and Franchisee shall be entitled to reasonable access to open
utility trenches, provided that such access does not interfere with the other party's placement of
utilities or increase such party's actual costs. Franchisee shall pay to the City the actual cost to the
City resulting from providing Franchisee access to an open trench, including without limitation
the pro rata share of the costs to access the open trench and any costs associated with the delay of
the completion of a public works project. The City shall pay to the Franchisee the incremental
costs of providing such access to the open trench.
Section 7.6. The provisions of this Section 7. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
abandonment or termination of this Franchise. Nothing in this Section 7. shall be construed as
requiring the City to pay any costs of undergrounding any of the Franchisee's Facilities unless
otherwise required by RCW 35.99.060.
Section 8. Emergency Work/Dangerous Conditions.
Section 8.1. In the event of any emergency in which any of Franchisee's Facilities
located in or under any street endangers the property, life, health or safety of any person, or if
Franchisee's construction area is otherwise in such a condition as to immediately endanger the
property, life, health or safety of any individual, Franchisee shall immediately take the proper
emergency measures to repair its Facilities, to cure or remedy the dangerous conditions for the
protection of property, life, health or safety of individuals without first applying for and obtaining
a permit as required by this Franchise. However, this shall not relieve Franchisee from the
requirement of obtaining any permits necessary for this purpose, and Franchisee shall apply for all
such permits not later than the next succeeding day during which the Tukwila City Hall is open
for business. The City retains the right and privilege to cut or move any Facilities located within
the Rights -of -Way of the City, in response to any public health or safety emergency.
Section 8.2. Whenever the construction, installation or excavation of Facilities
conducted by Franchisee as authorized by this Franchise has caused or materially contributed to a
condition that appears to substantially impair the lateral support of the adjoining street or public
place, or endangers the public, an adjoining public place, street utilities or City property, the Public
Works Director may direct Franchisee, at Franchisee's own expense, to take reasonable action to
protect the public, adjacent public places, City property or street utilities, and such action may
include compliance within a prescribed time. In the event that Franchisee fails or refuses to
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
286
10 of 36
promptly take the actions directed by the City, or fails to fully comply with such directions, or if
emergency conditions exist which require immediate action, before the City can timely contact
Franchisee to request Franchisee effect the immediate repair, the City may enter upon the property
and take such reasonable actions as are necessary to protect the public, the adjacent streets, or
street utilities, or to maintain the lateral support thereof, or reasonable actions regarded as
necessary safety precautions, and Franchisee shall be liable to the City for the costs thereof.
Section 9. Work in the Rights -of -Way.
Section 9.1. During any period of relocation, construction or maintenance, all work
performed by Franchisee or its contractors shall be accomplished in a safe and workmanlike
manner, so to minimize interference with the free passage of traffic and the free use of adjoining
property, whether public or private. Franchisee shall at all times post and maintain proper
barricades, flags, flaggers, lights, flares and other measures as required for the safety of all
members of the general public and comply with all applicable safety regulations during such period
of construction as required by the ordinances of the City or the laws of the State of Washington,
including RCW 39.04.180 for the construction of trench safety systems.
Section 9.2. Whenever Franchisee shall commence work in any Rights -of -Way for the
purpose of excavation, installation, construction, repair, maintenance, or relocation of its cable or
equipment, it shall apply to the City for a permit to do so and, in addition, shall give the City at
least ten (10) working days prior notice (except in the case of an emergency) of its intent to
commence work in the Rights -of -Way. The City shall only issue permits that are in compliance
with the TMC and the City's generally applicable design standards. During the progress of the
work, the Franchisee shall not unnecessarily obstruct the passage or proper use of the Rights -of -
Way, and all work by the Franchisee in the area shall be performed in accordance with applicable
City standards and specifications. In no case shall any work commence within any Rights -of -Way
without a permit, except as otherwise provided in this Franchise.
Section 9.3. If the Franchisee shall at any time plan to make excavations in any area
covered by this Franchise and as described in this Section 9.3, the Franchisee shall afford the other,
upon receipt of a written request to do so, an opportunity to share such excavation, PROVIDED
THAT:
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
11 of 36
287
(a) Such joint use shall not unreasonably delay the work of the Franchisee causing the
excavation to be made;
(b) Such joint use shall be arranged and accomplished on terms and conditions
satisfactory to both parties; and
(c) Franchisee may deny such request for safety reasons.
Section 9.4. Except for emergency situations, Franchisee shall give at least seven (7)
days' prior notice of intended construction to residents in the affected area prior to any
underground construction or disturbance. Such notice shall contain the dates, contact number,
nature and location of the work to be performed. At least twenty-four (24) hours prior to entering
private property or streets or public easements adjacent to or on such private property, Franchisee
shall physically post a notice on the property indicating the nature and location of the work to be
performed. Door hangers are permissible methods of notifications to residents. Franchisee shall
make a good faith effort to comply with the property owner/resident's preferences, if any, on
location or placement of underground installations (excluding aerial cable lines utilizing existing
poles and existing cable paths), consistent with sound engineering practices. Following
performance of the work, Franchisee shall restore the private property as nearly as possible to its
condition prior to construction, except for any change in condition not caused by Franchisee. Any
disturbance of landscaping, fencing, or other improvements on private property caused by
Franchisee's work shall, at the sole expense of Franchisee, be promptly repaired and restored to
the reasonable satisfaction of the property owner/resident. Notwithstanding the above, nothing
herein shall give Franchisee the right to enter onto private property without the permission of such
private property owner, or as otherwise authorized by applicable law.
Section 9.5. Upon receipt of a permit (except in emergency situations), Franchisee may
trim trees upon and overhanging on public ways, streets, alleys, sidewalks, and other public places
of the City so as to prevent the branches of such trees from coming in contact with Franchisee's
Facilities. The right to trim trees in this Section 9.5 shall only apply to the extent necessary to
protect above ground Facilities. Franchisee' s tree trimming activities shall protect the appearance,
integrity, and health of the trees to the extent reasonably possible. Franchisee shall be responsible
for all debris removal from such activities. All trimming shall be at the expense of Franchisee.
Franchisee may contract for such services, however, any firm or individual so retained must first
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
288
12 of 36
receive City approval prior to commencing such trimming. Nothing herein grants Franchisee any
authority to act on behalf of the City, to enter upon any private property, or to trim any tree or
natural growth not owned by the City except to the extent it is necessary that Franchisee trims trees
or vegetation upon, overhanging, or encroaching on public ways, streets, alleys, sidewalks, and
other public places of the City so as to prevent such vegetation from coming in contact with
Franchisee's Facilities. Franchisee shall be solely responsible and liable for any damage to any
third parties' trees or natural growth caused by Franchisee's actions. Franchisee shall indemnify,
defend and hold harmless the City from third -party claims of any nature arising out of any act or
negligence of Franchisee with regard to tree and/or natural growth trimming, damage, and/or
removal. Franchisee shall reasonably compensate the City or the property owner for any damage
caused by trimming, damage, or removal by Franchisee. Except in an emergency situation, all tree
trimming must be performed under the direction of an arborist certified by the International Society
of Arboriculture, unless otherwise approved by the Public Works Director or designee.
Section 9.6. Franchisee shall meet with the City and other franchise holders and users of
the Rights -of -Way upon written notice as determined by the City, to schedule and coordinate
construction in the Rights -of -Way. All construction locations, activities, and schedules shall be
coordinated, as ordered by the City to minimize public inconvenience, disruption or damages.
Section 9.7. Franchisee shall inform the City with at least thirty (30) days' advance
written notice that it is constructing, relocating, or placing ducts or conduits in the Rights -of -Way
and provide the City with an opportunity to request that Franchisee provide the City with additional
duct or conduit and related structures necessary to access the conduit pursuant to RCW 35.99.070.
Section 9.8. Prior to doing any work in the Rights -of -Way, the Franchisee shall follow
established procedures, including contacting the Utility Notification Center in Washington and
comply with all applicable State statutes regarding the One Call Locator Service pursuant to
Chapter 19.122 RCW. Further, upon request from a third party or the City, Franchisee shall locate
its Facilities consistent with the requirements of Chapter 19.122 RCW. The City shall not be liable
for any damages to Franchisee's Facilities or for interruptions in service to Franchisee's customers
that are a direct result of Franchisee' s failure to locate its Facilities within the prescribed time
limits and guidelines established by the One Call Locator Service regardless of whether the City
issued a permit.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
13 of 36
289
Section 9.9. The provisions of this Section 9. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
abandonment, or termination of this Franchise.
Section 10. Restoration.
Section 10.1. Franchisee shall, after installation, construction, relocation, maintenance, or
repair of its Facilities, or after abandonment approved pursuant to Section 22. , promptly remove
any obstructions from the Rights -of -Way and restore the surface of the Rights -of -Way to at least
the same condition the Rights -of -Way were in immediately prior to any such installation,
construction, relocation, maintenance or repair, provided Franchisee shall not be responsible for
any changes to the Rights -of -Way not caused by Franchisee. The Public Works Director or
designee shall have final approval of the condition of such Rights -of -Way after restoration. All
concrete encased survey monuments that have been disturbed or displaced by such work shall be
restored pursuant to federal, state (such as Chapter 332-120 WAC), and local standards and
specifications.
Section 10.2. Franchisee agrees to promptly complete all restoration work and to
promptly repair any damage caused by work to the Franchise Area or other affected area at its sole
cost and expense and according to the time and terms specified in the construction permit issued
by the City. All work by Franchisee pursuant to this Franchise shall be performed in accordance
with applicable City standards.
Section 10.3. If conditions (e.g. weather) make the complete restoration required under
Section 10. impracticable, Franchisee shall temporarily restore the affected Right -of -Way or
property. Such temporary restoration shall be at Franchisee's sole cost and expense. Franchisee
shall promptly undertake and complete the required permanent restoration when conditions no
longer make such permanent restoration impracticable.
Section 10.4. In the event Franchisee does not repair a Right -of -Way or an improvement
in or to a Right -of -Way within the time reasonably directed to by the Public Works Director, or
his/her designee, the City may repair the damage and shall be reimbursed its actual cost within
sixty (60) days of submitting an invoice to Franchisee in accordance with the provisions of Section
14.3 and Section 14.4. In addition, and pursuant to Section 14.3 and Section 14.4, the City may
bill Franchisee for expenses associated with the inspection of such restoration work. The failure
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
290
14 of 36
by Franchisee to complete such repairs shall be considered a breach of this Franchise and is subject
to remedies by the City including the imposition of damages consistent with Section 24. .
Section 10.5. The provisions of this Section 10. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
abandonment, or termination of this Franchise.
Section 11. Safety Requirements.
Section 11.1. Franchisee shall, at all times, employ professional care and shall install and
maintain and use industry -standard methods for preventing failures and accidents that are likely to
cause damage, injuries, or nuisances to the public. All structures and all lines, equipment, and
connections in, over, under, and upon the Rights -of -Ways, wherever situated or located, shall at
all times be kept and maintained in a safe condition. Franchisee shall comply with all federal,
State, and City safety requirements, rules, regulations, laws, and practices, and employ all
necessary devices as required by applicable law during the construction, operation, maintenance,
upgrade, repair, or removal of its Facilities. By way of illustration and not limitation, Franchisee
shall also comply with the applicable provisions of the National Electric Code, National Electrical
Safety Code, FCC regulations, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Standards. Upon reasonable notice to Franchisee, the City reserves the general right to inspect the
Facilities to evaluate if they are constructed and maintained in a safe condition.
Section 11.2. If an unsafe condition or a violation of Section 11.1 is found to exist, and
becomes known to the City, the City agrees to give Franchisee written notice of such condition
and afford Franchisee a reasonable opportunity to repair the same. If Franchisee fails to start to
make the necessary repairs and alterations within the time frame specified in such notice (and
pursue such cure to completion), then the City may make such repairs or contract for them to be
made. All costs, including administrative costs, incurred by the City in repairing any unsafe
conditions shall be borne by Franchisee and reimbursed to the City pursuant to Section 14.3 and
Section 14.4.
Section 11.3. Additional safety standards include:
(a) Franchisee shall endeavor to maintain all equipment lines and facilities in an
orderly manner, including, but not limited to, the removal of all bundles of unused cable
on any aerial facilities.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
15 of 36
291
(b) All installations of equipment, lines, and ancillary facilities shall be installed in
accordance with industry -standard engineering practices and shall comply with all federal,
State, and local regulations, ordinances, and laws.
(c) Any opening or obstruction in the Rights -of -Way or other public places made by
Franchisee in the course of its operations shall be protected by Franchisee at all times by
the placement of adequate barriers, fences, or boarding, the bounds of which, during
periods of dusk and darkness, shall be clearly marked and visible.
Section 11.4. Stop Work Order. On notice from the City that any work is being performed
contrary to the provisions of this Franchise, or in an unsafe or dangerous manner as determined by
the City, or in violation of the terms of any applicable permit, laws, regulations, ordinances, or
standards, the work may immediately be stopped by the City. The stop work order shall:
(a) Be in writing;
(b) Be given to the person doing the work or posted on the work site;
(c) Be sent to Franchisee by overnight delivery;
(d) Indicate the nature of the alleged violation or unsafe condition; and
(e) Establish conditions, consistent with the applicable laws, regulations, ordinances or
generally applicable standards under which work may be resumed.
Section 12. Work of Contractors and Subcontractors.
Section 12.1. Franchisee's contractors and subcontractors shall be licensed and bonded in
accordance with State law and the City's ordinances, regulations, and requirements. Work by
contractors and subcontractors are subject to the same restrictions, limitations, and conditions as
if the work were performed by Franchisee. Franchisee shall be responsible for all work performed
by its contractors and subcontractors and others performing work on its behalf as if the work were
performed by Franchisee and shall ensure that all such work is performed in compliance with this
Franchise and applicable law.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
292
16 of 36
Section 13. Maps and Records.
Section 13.1. The Franchisee agrees and covenants that it shall, within 10 days of
substantial completion of any construction project involving a Public Right -of -Way, provide to the
City, at no cost to the City, accurate copies of as -built plans and maps stamped and signed by a
professional land surveyor or engineer in a form and content acceptable to the Public Works
Director or designee.
Section 13.2. Within thirty (30) days of a written request from the Public Works Director,
the Franchisee shall furnish the City with information sufficient to demonstrate: (1) that the
Franchisee has complied with all applicable requirements of this Franchise; and (2) that utility
taxes due the City in connection with the Franchisee's services and Facilities provided by the
Franchisee have been properly collected and paid by the Franchisee.
Section 13.3. Books, records, maps, and other documents maintained by Franchisee with
respect to its Facilities within the Rights -of -Way and which are reasonably necessary to
demonstrate compliance with the terms of this Franchise, shall, after reasonable prior notice from
the City, be made available for inspection by the City at reasonable times and intervals but no more
than one time each calendar year or upon the City' s reasonable belief that there has been a violation
of this Franchise by Franchisee; provided, however, that nothing in this Section 13.3 shall be
construed to require Franchisee to violate state or federal law regarding customer privacy, nor shall
this Section 13.3 be construed to require Franchisee to disclose proprietary or confidential
information without adequate safeguards for its confidential or proprietary nature. Unless
otherwise permitted or required by State or federal law, nothing in this Section 13.3 shall be
construed as permission to withhold relevant customer data from the City that the City requests in
conjunction with a tax audit or review; provided, however, Franchisee may redact identifying
information such as names, street addresses (excluding City and zip code), Social Security
Numbers, or Employer Identification Numbers related to any confidentiality agreements
Franchisee has with third parties.
Section 13.4. Franchisee shall not be required to disclose information that it reasonably
deems to be proprietary or confidential in nature; provided, however, Franchisee shall disclose
such information to comply with a utility tax audit, or in the event the City is permitted to charge
franchise fees as further described in Section 15.1, or as otherwise required in this Franchise.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
17 of 36
293
Franchisee shall be responsible for clearly and conspicuously identifying the work as confidential,
trade secret, or proprietary, and shall provide a brief written explanation as to why such
information is confidential and how it may be treated as such under State or federal law. In the
event that the City receives a public records request under Chapter 42.56 RCW or similar law for
the disclosure of information Franchisee has designated as confidential, trade secret, or proprietary,
the City shall promptly provide written notice of such disclosure so that Franchisee may take
appropriate steps to protect its interests. Nothing in this Section 13.4 prohibits the City from
complying with Chapter 42.56 RCW or any other applicable law or court order requiring the
release of public records, and the City shall not be liable to Franchisee for compliance with any
law or court order requiring the release of public records. The City shall comply with any
injunction or court order obtained by Franchisee that prohibits the disclosure of any such
confidential records; however, in the event a higher court overturns such injunction or court order
and such higher court action is or has become final and non -appealable, Franchisee shall reimburse
the City for any fines or penalties imposed for failure to disclose such records as required hereunder
within sixty (60) days of a request from the City.
Section 13.5. On an annual basis, upon thirty (30) days prior written notice, the City shall
have the right to conduct an independent audit of Franchisee's records reasonably related to the
administration or enforcement of this Franchise and the collection of utility taxes, in accordance
with GAAP. If the audit shows that tax payments have been underpaid by three percent (3%) or
more, Franchisee shall pay the total cost of the audit.
Section 14. Costs and Fees.
Section 14.1. Franchisee shall pay a one-time fee for the actual administrative expenses
incurred by the City that are directly related to the receiving and approving this Franchise pursuant
to RCW 35.21.860, including the actual costs associated with the City's legal costs incurred in
drafting and processing this Franchise, not to exceed the application fee of $6,100.00, which has
already been paid by the Franchisee. No construction permits shall be issued for the installation
of Facilities authorized until such time as the City has received payment of this fee; further, this
Franchise shall be considered void if the fee is not paid within ninety (90) days of receipt of the
invoice. Franchisee shall further be subject to all permit fees associated with activities undertaken
through the authority granted in this Franchise or under the laws of the City. Where the City incurs
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
294
18 of 36
costs and expenses for review, inspection, or supervision of activities, including but not limited to
reasonable fees associated with attorneys, consultants, City Staff and City Attorney time,
undertaken through the authority granted in this Franchise or any ordinances relating to the subject
for which a permit fee is not established, Franchisee shall pay such costs and expenses directly to
the City in accordance with the provisions of Section 14.3.
Section 14.2. In addition to Section 14.1, Franchisee shall promptly reimburse the City in
accordance with the provisions of Section 14.3 and Section 14.4 for any and all costs the City
reasonably incurs in response to any emergency situation involving Franchisee's Facilities, to the
extent said emergency is not the fault of the City.
Section 14.3. Consistent with state law, Franchisee shall reimburse the City within sixty
(60) days of submittal by the City of an itemized billing for reasonably incurred costs, itemized by
project, for Franchisee's proportionate share of all actual, identified expenses incurred by the City
in planning, constructing, installing, repairing, altering, or maintaining any City facility as the
result of the presence of Franchisee's Facilities in the Right -of -Way. Such costs and expenses
shall include but not be limited to Franchisee's proportionate cost of City personnel assigned to
oversee or engage in any work in the Right -of -Way as the result of the presence of Franchisee's
Facilities in the Right -of -Way. Such costs and expenses shall also include Franchisee's
proportionate share of any time spent reviewing construction plans in order to either accomplish
the relocation of Franchisee's Facilities or the routing or rerouting of any utilities so as not to
interfere with Franchisee's Facilities.
Section 14.4. The time of City employees shall be charged at their respective rate of
salary, including overtime if applicable, plus benefits and reasonable overhead. Any other costs
will be billed proportionately on an actual cost basis. All billings will be itemized so as to
specifically identify the costs and expenses for each project for which the City claims
reimbursement. A charge for the actual costs incurred in preparing the billing may also be included
in said billing. Billing will be made on a monthly basis.
Section 15. City's Reservation of Rights
Section 15.1. Franchisee hereby represents that its operations as authorized under this
Franchise are those of a telephone business as defined in RCW 82.16.010, or service provider as
defined in RCW 35.21.860. As a result, the City will not impose a Franchise fee under the terms
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
19 of 36
295
of this Franchise, other than as described herein. The City hereby reserves its right to impose a
Franchise fee on Franchisee if Franchisee's operations as authorized by this Franchise change such
that the statutory prohibitions of RCW 35.21.860 no longer apply or, if statutory prohibitions on
the imposition of such fees are removed. In either instance, the City also reserves its right to
require that Franchisee obtain a separate Franchise for its change in use. Nothing contained herein
shall preclude Franchisee from challenging any such new fee or separate agreement under
applicable federal, State, or local laws.
Section 15.2. Franchisee acknowledges that its operation with the City constitutes a
telecommunications business subject to the utility tax imposed pursuant to the TMC Chapter 3.50.
Franchisee stipulates and agrees that certain of its business activities are subject to taxation as a
telephone business and that Franchisee shall pay to the City the rate applicable to such taxable
services under TMC Chapter 3.50, and consistent with state and federal law. The parties agree
however, that nothing in this Franchise shall limit the City's power of taxation as may exist now
or as later imposed by the City. This provision does not limit the City's power to amend TMC
Chapter 3.50 as may be permitted by law. Nothing in this Franchise is intended to alter, amend,
modify or expand the taxes and fees that may be lawfully assessed on Franchisee's Services.
Section 16. Police Powers and City Ordinances.
Section 16.1. Nothing in this Franchise Ordinance shall be deemed to restrict the City's
ability to adopt and enforce all necessary and appropriate ordinances regulating the performance
of the conditions of the Franchise granted by this Franchise Ordinance, including, but not limited
to, any valid ordinance made in the exercise of the City's police powers in the interest of public
safety and for the welfare of the public. The City shall have the authority at all times to control by
appropriate regulations, including design standards and utility accommodation policies, the
location, elevation, manner of construction, and maintenance of any Franchisee Facilities located
within any Public Right -of -Way or affecting any Public Right -of -Way, and the Franchisee shall
promptly conform with all such regulations, unless compliance would cause the Franchisee to
violate other requirements of law. In the event of a conflict between the regulatory provisions of
this Franchise Ordinance and any other ordinance(s) enacted under the City's police power
authority, such other ordinance(s) shall take precedence over the regulatory provisions set forth
herein.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
296
20 of 36
Section 17. Limitation of City's Liability.
Section 17.1. Administration by the City of the Franchise granted by this Franchise
Ordinance shall not be construed to create the basis for any liability to any third party on the part
of the City, its elected and appointed officials, officers, employees, and agents for any injury or
damage from the failure of the Franchisee to comply with the provisions of this Franchise
Ordinance; by reason of any plan, schedule or specification review, inspection, notice and order,
permission, or other approval or consent by the City; for any action or inaction thereof authorized
or done in connection with the implementation or enforcement of the Franchise by the City; or for
the accuracy of plans submitted to the City.
Section 18. Compliance with All Applicable Laws.
Section 18.1. Each party agrees to comply with all present and future federal, state and
local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. Neither the City nor Franchisee waive any rights
they may have under any such laws, rules or regulations. This Franchise is subject to ordinances
of general applicability enacted pursuant to the City's police powers. Franchisee further agrees to
remove all liens and encumbrances arising as a result of said use or work. Franchisee shall, at its
own expense, maintain its Facilities in a safe condition, in good repair and in a manner reasonably
suitable to the City. Additionally, Franchisee shall keep its Facilities free of debris and anything
of a dangerous, noxious or offensive nature or which would create a hazard or undue vibration,
heat, noise or any interference with City services. City reserves the right at any time to amend this
Franchise to conform to any hereafter enacted, amended, or adopted federal or state statute or
regulation relating to the public health, safety, and welfare, or relating to roadway regulation, or a
City ordinance enacted pursuant to such federal or state statute or regulation when such statute,
regulation, or ordinance necessitates this Franchise be amended in order to remain in compliance
with applicable laws, but only upon providing Franchisee with thirty (30) days written notice of
its action setting forth the full text of the amendment and identifying the statute, regulation, or
ordinance requiring the amendment. Said amendment shall become automatically effective upon
expiration of the notice period unless, before expiration of that period, Franchisee makes a written
request for negotiations over the terms of the amendment. If the parties do not reach agreement as
to the terms of the amendment within thirty (30) days of the call for negotiations, either party may
pursue any available remedies at law or in equity.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
21 of 36
297
Section 19. Indemnification
Section 19.1. Franchisee releases, covenants not to bring suit, and agrees to indemnify,
defend, and hold harmless the City, its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, elected and
appointed officials, and contractors from any and all claims, costs, judgments, awards, or liability
to any person, for injury or death of any person, or damage to property to the extent caused by or
arising out of any acts or omissions of Franchisee, its agents, servants, officers, or employees in
the performance of this Franchise and any rights granted within this Franchise, except to the extent
caused by the sole negligence, intentional misconduct, or criminal actions on the part of the City,
its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, or elected or appointed officials, or contractors.
Section 19.2. Inspection or acceptance by the City of any work performed by Franchisee
at the time of completion of construction shall not be grounds for avoidance by Franchisee of any
of its obligations under this Section 19. . These indemnification obligations shall extend to claims
that are not reduced to a suit and any claims that may be compromised, with Franchisee's prior
written consent, prior to the culmination of any litigation or the institution of any litigation.
Section 19.3. The City shall promptly notify Franchisee of any claim or suit and request
in writing that Franchisee indemnify the City. Franchisee may choose counsel to defend the City
subject to this Section 19.3. City's failure to so notify and request indemnification shall not relieve
Franchisee of any liability that Franchisee might have, except to the extent that such failure
prejudices Franchisee's ability to defend such claim or suit. In the event that Franchisee refuses
the tender of defense in any suit or any claim, as required pursuant to the indemnification
provisions within this Franchise, and said refusal is subsequently determined by a court having
jurisdiction (or such other tribunal that the parties shall agree to decide the matter), to have been a
wrongful refusal on the part of Franchisee, Franchisee shall pay all of the City's actual and
reasonable costs for defense of the action, including all expert witness fees, costs, and attorney's
fees, and including costs and fees incurred in recovering under this indemnification provision. If
separate representation to fully protect the interests of both parties is necessary, such as a conflict
of interest between the City and the counsel selected by Franchisee to represent the City, then upon
the prior written approval and consent of Franchisee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld,
the City shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any action or proceeding and to
participate in the investigation and defense thereof, and Franchisee shall pay the reasonable fees
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
298
22 of 36
and expenses of such separate counsel, except that Franchisee shall not be required to pay the fees
and expenses of separate counsel on behalf of the City for the City to bring or pursue any
counterclaims or interpleader action, equitable relief, restraining order or injunction. The City's
fees and expenses shall include all out-of-pocket expenses, such as consultants and expert witness
fees, and shall also include the reasonable value of any services rendered by the counsel retained
by the City but shall not include outside attorneys' fees for services that are unnecessarily
duplicative of services provided the City by Franchisee. Each party agrees to cooperate and to
cause its employees and agents to cooperate with the other party in the defense of any such claim
and the relevant records of each party shall be available to the other party with respect to any such
defense.
Section 19.4. The parties acknowledge that this Franchise may be subject to RCW
4.24.115. Accordingly, in the event of liability for damages arising out of bodily injury to persons
or damages to property caused by or resulting from the concurrent negligence of Franchisee and
the City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers, Franchisee's liability shall be only to
the extent of Franchisee's negligence. It is further specifically and expressly understood that the
each party specifically waives any immunity it may have under Title 51 RCW, solely for the
purposes of this indemnification. This waiver has been mutually negotiated by the parties.
Section 19.5. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Section 19. , Franchisee
assumes the risk of damage to its Facilities located in the Rights -of -Way and upon City -owned
property from activities conducted by the City, its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, elected
and appointed officials, and contractors, except to the extent any such damage or destruction is
caused by or arises from any sole negligence, intentional misconduct or criminal actions on the
part of the City, its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, or elected or appointed officials, or
contractors. In no event shall either party be liable for any indirect, incidental, special,
consequential, exemplary, or punitive damages, including by way of example and not limitation
lost profits, lost revenue, loss of goodwill, or loss of business opportunity in connection with its
performance or failure to perform under this Franchise. Each party releases and waives any and
all such claims against the other party, its respective officers, agents, employees, volunteers, or
elected or appointed officials, or contractors. Franchisee further agrees to indemnify, hold
harmless and defend the City against any claims for damages, including, but not limited to,
business interruption damages, lost profits and consequential damages, brought by or under users
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
23 of 36
299
of Franchisee's Facilities as the result of any interruption of service due to damage or destruction
of Franchisee's Facilities caused by or arising out of activities conducted by the City, its officers,
agents, employees or contractors except to the extent any such damage or destruction is caused by
or arises from the sole negligence or intentional misconduct, or criminal actions on the part of the
City, its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, or elected or appointed officials, or contractors.
Section 19.6. The provisions of this Section 19. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
termination, or abandonment of this Franchise.
Section 20. Insurance.
Section 20.1. Franchisee shall procure and maintain for the duration of the Franchise and
as long as Franchisee has Facilities in the rights -of -way, insurance against claims for injuries to
persons or damage to property which may arise from or in connection with the Franchise and use
of the rights -of -way.
(a) No Limitation. Franchisee's maintenance of insurance as required by the
Franchise shall not be construed to limit the liability of Franchisee to the coverage provided by
such insurance, or otherwise limit the City's recourse to any remedy available at law or in equity.
(b) Minimum Scope of Insurance. Franchisee shall obtain insurance of the
types and coverage described below:
(i) Commercial General Liability insurance shall be at least as broad
as ISO occurrence form CG 00 01 and shall cover liability arising from premises, operations,
stop gap liability, independent contractors, products -completed operations, personal injury and
advertising injury, and liability assumed under an insured contract. There shall be no exclusion
for liability arising from explosion, collapse or underground property damage. The City shall be
included as an additional insured under Franchisee's Commercial General Liability insurance
policy with respect this Franchise using ISO endorsement CG 20 12 05 09 or CG 20 26 07 04,
or substitute endorsement providing at least as broad coverage.
(ii) Automobile Liability insurance covering all owned, non -owned,
hired and leased vehicles. Coverage shall be at least as broad as Insurance Services Office (ISO)
form CA 00 01.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
300
24 of 36
(iii) Contractors Pollution Liability insurance shall be in effect
throughout the entire Franchise covering losses caused by pollution conditions that arise from the
operations of Franchisee. Contractors Pollution Liability shall cover bodily injury, property
damage, cleanup costs and defense, including costs and expenses incurred in the investigation,
defense, or settlement of claims.
(iv) Workers' Compensation coverage as required by the Industrial
Insurance laws of the State of Washington.
(v) Excess or Umbrella Liability insurance shall be excess over and at
least as broad in coverage as Franchisee's Commercial General Liability and Automobile
Liability insurance. The City shall be named as an additional insured on the Contractor's Excess
or Umbrella Liability insurance policy.
(c) Minimum Amounts of Insurance. Franchisee shall maintain the following
insurance limits:
(i) Commercial General Liability insurance shall be written with
limits no less than $5,000,000 each occurrence, $5,000,000 general aggregate.
(ii) Automobile Liability insurance with a minimum combined single
limit for bodily injury and property damage of $5,000,000 per accident.
(iii) Contractors Pollution Liability insurance shall be written in an
amount of at least $2,000,000 per loss, with an annual aggregate of at least $2,000,000.
(iv) Excess or Umbrella Liability insurance shall be written with limits
of not less than $5,000,000 per occurrence and annual aggregate. The Excess or Umbrella
Liability requirement and limits may be satisfied instead through Franchisee's Commercial
General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance, or any combination thereof that achieves
the overall required limits.
(d) Other Insurance Provisions. Franchisee's Commercial General Liability,
Automobile Liability, Excess or Umbrella Liability, Contractors Pollution Liability insurance
policy or policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, that they shall be primary insurance as
respect the City. Any insurance, self-insurance, or self -insured pool coverage maintained by the
City shall be excess of Franchisee's insurance and shall not contribute with it.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
25 of 36
301
(e) Acceptability of Insurers. Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a
current A.M. Best rating of not less than A: -VII.
(f) Verification of Coverage. Franchisee shall furnish the City with original
certificates and a copy of the amendatory endorsements, including but not necessarily limited to
the additional insured endorsement, evidencing the insurance requirements of the Franchise..
(g) Subcontractors. Franchisee shall cause each and every Subcontractor
to provide insurance coverage that complies with all applicable requirements of Franchisee -
provided insurance as set forth herein, except Franchisee shall have sole responsibility for
determining the limits of coverage required to be obtained by Subcontractors. Franchisee shall
ensure that the City is an additional insured on each and every Subcontractor's Commercial
General liability insurance policy using an endorsement as least as broad as ISO CG 2026.
(h) Notice of Cancellation. Franchisee shall provide the City with written
notice of any policy cancellation within two business days of their receipt of such notice.
(i) Failure to Maintain Insurance. Failure on the part of Franchisee to
maintain the insurance as required shall constitute a material breach of Franchise, upon which the
City may, after giving five business days' notice to Franchisee to correct the breach, terminate the
Franchise or, at its discretion, procure or renew such insurance and pay any and all premiums in
connection therewith, with any sums so expended to be repaid to the City on demand.
(j) City Full Availability of Franchisee Limits. If Franchisee maintains
higher insurance limits than the minimums shown above, the City shall be insured for the full
available limits of Commercial General and Excess or Umbrella liability maintained by
Franchisee, irrespective of whether such limits maintained by Franchisee are greater than those
required by this Franchise or whether any certificate of insurance furnished to the City evidences
limits of liability lower than those maintained by Franchisee.
(k) Franchisee — Self -Insurance. If Franchisee is self -insured or becomes
self -insured during the term of the Franchise, Franchisee or its affiliated parent entity shall comply
with the following: (i) provide the City, upon request, a copy of Franchisee's or its parent
company's most recent audited financial statements, if such financial statements are not otherwise
publicly available; (ii) Franchisee or its parent company is responsible for all payments within the
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
302
26 of 36
self -insured retention; and (iii) Franchisee assumes all defense and indemnity obligations as
outlined in Section 19.
Section 21. Bonds.
Section 21.1. Construction Performance Bond. Upon an application for a permit
involving excavation, installation, construction, restoration or relocation of the Facilities and if
required by the City, Franchisee shall furnish a performance bond ("Performance Bond") written
by a corporate surety reasonably acceptable to the city in an amount equal to 150% of the
construction cost, which should not be less than $2,000. The amount of the Performance Bond
may be reduced during construction as determined by the City. The Performance Bond shall
guarantee the following: (1) timely completion of construction; (2) construction in compliance
with all applicable plans, permits, technical codes, and standards; (3) proper location of the
Facilities as specified by the City; (4) restoration of the Rights -of -Way and other City properties
affected by the construction; (5) submission of as -built drawings after completion of construction;
and (6) timely payment and satisfaction of all claims, demands, or liens for labor, materials, or
services provided in connection with the work which could be asserted against the City or City
property. Said bond must remain in full force until the completion of construction, including final
inspection, corrections, and final approval of the work, recording of all easements, provision of as -
built drawings, and the posting of a Maintenance Bond as described in Section 21.2.
Section 21.2. Maintenance Bond. Following excavation, installation, construction,
restoration or relocation of the Facilities and if required by the City, Franchisee shall furnish a two
(2) year maintenance bond ("Maintenance Bond"), or other surety acceptable to the City, at the
time of final acceptance of construction work on Facilities within the Rights -of -Way. The
Maintenance Bond amount will be equal to ten percent (10%) of the documented final cost of the
construction work. The Maintenance Bond in this Section 21.2 must be in place prior to City's
release of the bond required by Section 21.1.
Section 21.3. Franchise Bond. Franchisee shall provide City with a bond in the amount
of Twenty -Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) ("Franchise Bond") running or renewable for the
term of this Franchise, in a form and substance reasonably acceptable to City. In the event
Franchisee shall fail to substantially comply with any one or more of the provisions of this
Franchise following notice and a reasonable opportunity to cure, then there shall be recovered
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
27 of 36
303
jointly and severally from Franchisee and the bond any actual damages suffered by City as a result
thereof, including but not limited to staff time, material and equipment costs, compensation or
indemnification of third parties, and the cost of removal or abandonment of facilities hereinabove
described. Franchisee specifically agrees that its failure to comply with the terms of this Section
20.1 shall constitute a material breach of this Franchise. The amount of the bond shall not be
construed to limit Franchisee's liability or to limit the City's recourse to any remedy to which the
City is otherwise entitled at law or in equity.
Section 22. Abandonment of Franchisee's Facilities.
Section 22.1. Upon the expiration, termination, or revocation of the rights granted under
this Franchise, Franchisee shall remove all of its Facilities from the Rights -of -Way within thirty
(30) days of receiving written notice from the Public Works Director or designee. The Facilities,
in whole or in part, may not be abandoned by Franchisee without written approval by the City.
Any plan for abandonment or removal of Franchisee's Facilities must be first approved by the
Public Works Director or his/her designee, and all necessary permits must be obtained prior to
such work. Franchisee shall restore the Right -of -Way to at least the same condition the Rights -of -
Way were in immediately prior to any such removal provided Franchisee shall not be responsible
for any changes to the Right -of -Way not caused by Franchisee or any person doing work for
Franchisee. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for all costs associated with removing its
Facilities.
Section 22.2. Notwithstanding Section 22.1 above, the City may permit Franchisee's
improvements to be abandoned in place in such a manner as the City may prescribe. Upon
permanent abandonment, and Franchisee's agreement to transfer ownership of the Facilities to the
City, Franchisee shall submit to the City a proposal and instruments for transferring ownership to
the City.
Section 22.3. Any Facilities which are not removed within one hundred twenty (120) days
of either the date of termination or revocation or the date the City issued a permit authorizing
removal, whichever is later, shall automatically become the property of the City. Any costs
incurred by the City in safeguarding such Facilities or removing the Facilities shall be reimbursed
by Franchisee.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
304
28 of 36
Section 22.4. If Franchisee leases a structure in the Right -of -Way from a landlord and
such landlord later replaces, removes or relocates the structure, for example by building a
replacement structure, Franchisee shall remove or relocate its Facilities within the Right -of -Way
within ninety (90) days of such notification from the landlord at no cost to the City.
Section 22.5. The provisions of this Section 22. shall survive the expiration, revocation,
abandonment, or termination of this Franchise and for so long as Franchisee has Facilities in
Rights -of -Way.
Section 23. Forfeiture and Revocation.
Section 23.1. If Franchisee willfully violates or fails to comply with any of the provisions
of this Franchise, or through willful misconduct or gross negligence fails to heed or comply with
any notice given Franchisee by the City under the provisions of this Franchise, then Franchisee
shall, at the election of the Tukwila City Council, forfeit all rights conferred hereunder and this
Franchise may be revoked or annulled by the Council after a hearing held upon notice to
Franchisee.
Section 23.2. Such hearing shall be open to the public and Franchisee and other interested
parties may offer written and/or oral evidence explaining or mitigating such alleged
noncompliance. This hearing does not give the right to either the City or Franchisee to conduct
discovery, subpoena witnesses, or take depositions. Within thirty (30) days after the hearing, the
Tukwila City Council, on the basis of the record, will make the determination as to whether there
is cause for revocation, whether the Franchise will be terminated, or whether lesser sanctions
should otherwise be imposed. The Tukwila City Council may in its sole discretion fix an additional
time period to cure violations. If the deficiency has not been cured at the expiration of any
additional time period or if the Tukwila City Council does not grant any additional period, the
Tukwila City Council may by resolution declare the Franchise to be revoked and forfeited or
impose lesser sanctions. If Franchisee appeals revocation and termination, such revocation may
be held in abeyance pending judicial review by a court of competent jurisdiction, provided
Franchisee is otherwise in compliance with the Franchise.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
29 of 36
305
Section 24. Remedies to Enforce Compliance.
Section 24.1. The City may elect, without any prejudice to any of its other legal rights and
remedies, to obtain an order from the superior court having jurisdiction compelling Franchisee to
comply with the provisions of the Franchise and to recover damages and costs incurred by the City
by reason of Franchisee's failure to comply. In addition to any other remedy provided herein, the
City reserves the right to pursue any remedy to compel or force Franchisee and/or its successors
and assigns to comply with the terms hereof, and the pursuit of any right or remedy by the City
shall not prevent the City from thereafter declaring a forfeiture or revocation for breach of the
conditions herein. In addition to any other remedy provided in this Franchise, Franchisee reserves
the right to pursue any remedy available at law or in equity to compel or require the City, its
officers, employees, volunteers, contractors and other agents and representatives, to comply with
the terms of this Franchise. Further, all rights and remedies provided herein shall be in addition to
and cumulative with any and all other rights and remedies available to either the City or Franchisee.
Such rights and remedies shall not be exclusive, and the exercise of one or more rights or remedies
shall not be deemed a waiver of the right to exercise at the same time or thereafter any other right
or remedy. Provided, further, that by entering into this Franchise, it is not the intention of the City
or Franchisee to waive any other rights, remedies, or obligations as otherwise provided by law
equity, or otherwise, and nothing contained here shall be deemed or construed to effect any such
waiver. The parties agree that in the event a party obtains injunctive relief, neither party shall be
required to post a bond or other security and the parties agree not to seek the imposition of such a
requirement.
Section 24.2. If either party (the "Defaulting Party") shall violate, or fail to comply with
any of the provisions of this Franchise, or should it fail to heed or comply with any notice given
to such party under the provisions of this Franchise, the other party (the "Non -Defaulting Party")
shall provide the Defaulting Party with written notice specifying with reasonable particularity the
nature of any such breach and the Defaulting Party shall undertake all commercially reasonable
efforts to cure such breach within thirty (30) days of receipt of notification. If the parties reasonably
determine the breach cannot be cured within (30) thirty days, the Non -Defaulting Party may
specify a longer cure period, and condition the extension of time on the Defaulting Party's
submittal of a plan to cure the breach within the specified period, commencement of work within
the original thirty (30) day cure period, and diligent prosecution of the work to completion. If the
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
306
30 of 36
breach is not cured within the specified time, or the Defaulting Party does not comply with the
specified conditions, the Non -Defaulting Party may pursue any available remedy at law or in
equity as provided in Section 24.1 above, or in the event Franchisee has failed to timely cure or
commence cure of the breach, the City may, at its discretion, (1) revoke this Franchise with no
further notification pursuant to this Section 24. , (2) refuse to grant additional permits, or (3) claim
damages of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00) per day against the Franchisee or Franchise
Bond set forth in Section 21.3.
Section 25. Non -Waiver.
Section 25.1. The failure of either party to insist upon strict performance of any of the
covenants and agreements of this Franchise or to exercise any option herein conferred in any one
or more instances, shall not be construed to be a waiver or relinquishment of any such covenants,
agreements or option or any other covenants, agreements or option.
Section 26. Acceptance.
Section 26.1. Within sixty days of the approval of this Franchise Ordinance, the
Franchisee shall execute and return to the City its execution and acceptance of this Franchise in
the form attached hereto as Attachment B. In addition, Franchisee shall submit proof of insurance
obtained and additional insured endorsement pursuant to Section 20. , any applicable construction
Performance Bond pursuant to Section 21.1, the Franchise Bond required pursuant to Section 21.3,
and the administrative fee pursuant to Section 14.1.
Section 27. Survival.
Section 27.1. All of the provisions, conditions, and requirements of Section 6. , Section
7. Section 9. , Section 10. , Section 19. , Section 20. , Section 22. , Section 32.1, Section 35.3
and Section 35.4 of this Franchise shall be in addition to any and all other obligations and liabilities
Franchisee may have to the City at common law, by statute, or by contract, and shall survive the
City's Franchise to Franchisee for the use of the Franchise Area, and any renewals or extensions
thereof. All of the provisions, conditions, regulations and requirements contained in this Franchise
shall further be binding upon the heirs, successors, executors, administrators, legal representatives
and assigns of Franchisee and all privileges, as well as all obligations and liabilities of Franchisee
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
31 of 36
307
shall inure to its heirs, successors and assigns equally as if they were specifically mentioned where
Franchisee is named herein.
Section 28. Assignment.
Section 28.1. This Franchise may not be directly or indirectly assigned, transferred, or
disposed of by sale, lease, merger, consolidation or other act of Franchisee, by operation of law or
otherwise, unless prior written consent is provided to the City within sixty (60) days following the
assignment. In the case of transfer or assignment as security by mortgage or other security
instrument in whole or in part to secure indebtedness, such notice shall not be required unless and
until the secured party elects to realize upon the collateral. For purposes of this Section 28.1, no
assignment or transfer of this Franchise shall be deemed to occur based on the public trading of
Franchisee's stock; provided, however, any tender offer, merger, or similar transaction resulting
in a change of control shall be subject to the provisions of this Franchise.
Section 28.2. Any transactions which singularly or collectively result in a change of 50%
or more of the (i) ownership or working control (for example, management of Franchisee or its
Telecommunications facilities) of the Franchisee; or (ii) ownership or working control of the
Franchisee's Telecommunications facilities within the City; or (iii) control of the capacity or
bandwidth of the Franchisee's Telecommunication facilities within the City, shall be considered an
assignment or transfer requiring notice to the City pursuant to this Franchise. Such transactions
between affiliated entities are not exempt from notice requirements. A Franchisee shall notify the
City of any proposed change in, or transfer of, or acquisition by any other party of control of a
Franchisee within sixty (60) days following the closing of the transaction.
Section 29. Entire Agreement.
Section 29.1. This Franchise constitutes the entire understanding and agreement between
the parties as to the subject matter herein and no other agreements or understandings, written or
otherwise, shall be binding upon the parties upon execution of this Franchise.
Section 30. Extension.
Section 30.1. If this Franchise expires without renewal or is otherwise lawfully terminated
or revoked, the City may, subject to applicable law:
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
308
32 of 36
(a) Allow Franchisee to maintain and operate its Facilities on a month -to -month basis,
provided that Franchisee maintains insurance for such Facilities during such period and
continues to comply with this Franchise; or
(b) The City may order the removal of any and all Facilities at Franchisee's sole cost
and expense consistent with Section 22.
Section 31. Eminent Domain.
Section 31.1. The existence of this Franchise shall not preclude the City from acquiring
by condemnation in accordance with applicable law, all or a portion of the Franchisee's Facilities
for the fair market value thereof. In determining the value of such Facilities, no value shall be
attributed to the right to occupy the area conferred by this Franchise.
Section 32. Vacation.
Section 32.1. If at any time the City, by ordinance, vacates all or any portion of the area
affected by this Franchise, the City shall not be liable for any damages or loss to the Franchisee by
reason of such vacation. If Franchisee has Facilities in the vacated portion of the Right -of -Way,
the City shall use reasonable efforts to reserve an appurtenant easement for Franchisee within the
vacated portion of the Right -of -Way within which Franchisee may continue to operate existing
Facilities under the terms of this Franchise for the remaining period of the term set forth in Section
4. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, the City shall incur no liability for failing to reserve
such easement. The City shall notify the Franchisee in writing not less than sixty (60) days before
vacating all or any portion of any such area, in which Franchisee is located. The City may, after
sixty (60) days written notice to the Franchisee, terminate this Franchise with respect to such
vacated area.
Section 33. Hazardous Substances.
Section 33.1. Franchisee shall not introduce or use any hazardous substances (chemical
or waste), in violation of any applicable law or regulation, nor shall Franchisee allow any of its
agents, contractors or any person under its control to do the same. Franchisee will be solely
responsible for and will defend, indemnify and hold the City, its officers, officials, employees,
agents and volunteers harmless from and against any and all claims, costs and liabilities including
reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, arising out of or in connection with the cleanup or restoration
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
33 of 36
309
of the property to the extent caused by Franchisee's use, storage, or disposal of hazardous
substances, whether or not intentional, and the use, storage or disposal of such substances by
Franchisee's agents, contractors or other persons acting under Franchisee's control, whether or not
intentional.
Section 33.2. The obligations of the Franchisee under this Section 32.1 shall survive the
expiration, revocation, abandonment, earlier termination of the Franchise granted by this Franchise
Ordinance.
Section 34. Notice
Section 34.1. Any Notice or information required or permitted to be given to the parties
under this Franchise agreement may be sent to the following addresses unless otherwise specified:
CITY OF TUKWILA FRANCHISEE
Section 34.2. The Franchisee's current emergency line is via the following number 877-
453-8353,and shall be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Franchisee shall promptly
notify the City of any change in the notice address or emergency contact (or title) and phone
number.
Section 35. Miscellaneous.
Section 35.1. Franchisee shall pay promptly and before they become delinquent, all taxes
on personal property and improvements owned or placed by Franchisee and shall pay all license
fees and public utility charges relating to the conduct of its business, shall pay for all permits,
licenses and zoning approvals, shall pay any other applicable tax unless documentation of
exemption is provided to the City and shall pay utility taxes and license fees imposed by the City.
Section 35.2. City and Franchisee respectively represent that its signatory is duly
authorized and has full right, power and authority to execute this Franchise.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
310
34 of 36
Section 35.3. If a suit or other action is instituted in connection with any controversy
arising out of this Franchise, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover all of its costs and
expenses, including such sum as the court may judge as reasonable for attorneys' fees, costs,
expenses and attorneys' fees upon appeal of any judgment or ruling.
Section 35.4. This Franchise shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State
of Washington. Venue for any dispute related to this Franchise shall be the United States District
Court for the Western District of Washington, or Snohomish County Superior Court.
Section 35.5. Section captions and headings are intended solely to facilitate the reading
thereof. Such captions and headings shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of the text
herein.
Section 35.6. Where the context so requires, the singular shall include the plural and the
plural include the singular.
Section 35.7. Franchisee shall be responsible for obtaining all other necessary approvals,
authorizations and agreements from any party or entity and it is acknowledged and agreed that the
City is making no representation, warranty or covenant whether any of the foregoing approvals,
authorizations or agreements are required or have been obtained by Franchisee by any person or
entity.
Section 35.8. This Franchise may be enforced at both law and equity.
Section 35.9. Franchisee acknowledges that it, and not the City, shall be responsible for
the premises and equipment's compliance with all marking and lighting requirements of the FAA
and the FCC. Franchisee shall indemnify and hold the City harmless from any fines or other
liabilities caused by Franchisee's failure to comply with such requirements. Should Franchisee or
the City be cited by either the FCC or the FAA because the Facilities or the Franchisee' s equipment
is not in compliance and should Franchisee fail to cure the conditions of noncompliance within the
timeframe allowed by the citing agency, the City may either terminate this Franchise immediately
on notice to the Franchisee or proceed to cure the conditions of noncompliance at the Franchisee's
expense.
Section 35.10. This Franchise is subject to all current and future applicable federal, State
and local laws, regulations and orders of governmental agencies as amended, including but not
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
35 of 36
311
limited to the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, the Telecommunications Act of 1996, as
amended and the Rules and Regulations of the FCC. Neither the City nor Franchisee waive any
rights they may have under any such laws, rules, or regulations.
Section 35.11. There are no third party beneficiaries to this Franchise.
Level 3 Franchise Agreement
Version: 09/042025
312
36 of 36
Attachment B
STATEMENT OF ACCEPTANCE
, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby
accepts and agrees to be bound by all lawful terms, conditions and provisions of the Franchise
attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
By: Date:
Name:
Title:
STATE OF
COUNTY OF
)ss.
)
On this day of , 2025, before me the undersigned, a Notary Public in and
for the State of , duly commissioned and sworn, personally appeared,
of , the company that executed the within and
foregoing instrument, and acknowledged the said instrument to be the free and voluntary act and
deed of said company, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned, and on oath stated that he/she
is authorized to execute said instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal on the date
hereinabove set forth.
Signature
NOTARY PUBLIC in and for the State of
Residing at
MY COMMISSION EXPIRES:
Level 3 Franchise Statement of Acceptance
Version: 09/042025
1 of 1
313