December 4, 2000

• An estimated 643 party-line subscribers will be upgraded to individual line service.
  
• Cochrane’s SIP will ensure that its customers have access to the basic service:

- Single line touch-tone service with local access to the Internet;

- Enhanced calling features, including 911, voice message relay service for those with hearing difficulties, and features that protect privacy;

- Access to operator and directory assistance services;

- Access to long distance; and

- A copy of the current local telephone directory.

• Customers will not be subject to a local rate increase. The Commission already approved a local rate increase on March 1^st, 2000. Cochrane will review whether it needs to apply to increase its rates one year following provision of service to its customers.
  
• Cochrane will extend service where the cost to extend service does not exceed $15,000 per customer taking service. This includes each customer’s $1,000 payment for service extension.
  
• Customers will have 12 months to pay the $1,000 amount. Cochrane will be allowed to request a non-refundable deposit no greater than $200, payable in the first month of the instalment plan.
  
• There will be no interest charges on outstanding instalment amounts. However, Cochrane will be allowed to charge its tariffed late payment interest rate for late payments of instalments due each month.
  
• Cochrane’s service improvement plan is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2002.

Reference document: Order CRTC 2000-1098