In January of this year the trade association known as the Independent Cable & Telecommunications Association (ICTA) looked in the mirror and decided that it was time to reposition themselves to better serve the needs of members in this new centrury. Inspired by a membership that was growing more diverse with each passing month and watching the lines between that of the independent cable and broadband providers and the MDUs that they serve began to blur the ICTA took on the task of aggressively reinventing itself into the new Independent Multi-Family Communications Council (IMCC).

"Our industry is in the midst of a transitional period and virtually every company providing video, data and telecommunications to the MDU marketplace is facing a number of challenges," said Bryan Rader, CEO of Media Work and President of IMCC.

"Our industry association is charging ahead with a strong collective effort from both operators and property owners in the pursuit of improving our products and services to the MDU customer. Our goals for 2001 remain the same yet our face will change with a new Board of Directors, new name, new logo and new mission statement selected to reflect our unified efforts.

The trade association ICTA, will now be known as the Independent Multi-Family Communications Council (IMCC). It will continue to include providers and users of broadband products and services working together for the benefit of MDU residents. IMCC's board of directors reflects its membership and includes 12 Private Cable Operators (PCOs), 12 Multi-Family Dwelling Unit companies and seven manufacturers and vendors.

"IMCC is entering a new stage in its evolution as an association," said Jim Sweeney of Equity Residential Properties Trust and Director of IMCC. "We continue our goals of achieving competitive communications and providing better choices for our resident families. Our joint efforts seek to keep residents pleased which produces higher occupancy rates."

Scott Wiggins of United Dominion Reality and Director of IMCC stated that, "MDU owners want an alternative to franchised cable, PCOs offer that. IMCC must facilitate an improved climate for growth. We confront barriers to competition that the FCC should address. States have mandatory access laws that should be repealed. Our Program of Excellence can improve the business practices of PCOs and MDUs for the benefit of residents. We must find new financing. There's a lot to be done by IMCC members."

"We all know the numerous MDU markets are a great opportunity for alternative analog and digital video and Internet providers," expressed Cary Ferchill, CEO of WSNET and Director of IMCC. "The owners want us to provide quality products and services. Those companies that get through this difficult period will be tested, lean and stronger. Our BOD is dedicated to mutual success because working together is the foundation of the Independent Multi-Family Communications Council."