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EXHIBIT 10.6
SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS SERVICES AGREEMENT (this "AGREEMENT") is entered into as of this 31st
day of July, 2000, by and between Alamosa Operations, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("MANAGER"), and Washington Oregon Wireless, LLC, an Oregon limited
liability company ("LICENSEE") (Manager and Licensee, collectively, the
"PARTIES").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Alamosa PCS Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("ALAMOSA")
owns and operates a wireless telecommunications network, principally in the
states of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Wisconsin, pursuant to management
agreements (although more than one, the "ALAMOSA MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT") with,
among others, WirelessCo, L.P., SprintSpectrum L.P., Xxx Communications PCS,
L.P., Cox PCS License, LLC, and SprintCom, Inc. (collectively, "SPRINT PCS");
WHEREAS, Licensee owns and operates a wireless telecommunications network
in the Basic Trading Areas set forth on EXHIBIT A (the "BTAS"), pursuant to a
management agreement, dated as of January 25, 1999, between Licensee and Sprint
PCS (the "LICENSEE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT");
WHEREAS, Alamosa and Licensee, among others, have simultaneously entered
into an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (herein so called) pursuant to
which Licensee will agree to merge (the "PARENT MERGER") with and into Alamosa
Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SUPERHOLDINGS"), simultaneously with
the merger of a wholly-owned subsidiary of Superholdings with and into Alamosa
(the "SUBSIDIARY MERGER," together with the Parent Merger, the "MERGERS");
WHEREAS, pending consummation of the Parent Merger, Licensee desires that
Manager provide, and Manager has agreed to provide, (a) all network management
services for the operation of Licensee's wireless telecommunication network
within the BTAs (the "NETWORK"), (b) management of all sales and marketing
services, and (c) through the Licensee Management Agreement, customer care,
billing and other services, all in connection with the operation of Licensee's
business, on the terms and conditions set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency
of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE 1 - LICENSES; LICENSEE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
1.1 Licenses. The Parties acknowledge that Sprint PCS holds the Federal
Communications Commission ("FCC") licenses to provide broadband
personal communications services ("PCS") within the BTAs (the
"Licenses"). This Agreement will, in all respects, be subject to the
FCC's rules and regulations regarding the ownership and control of the
Licenses. To the extent that the operation of any provision herein
conflicts with or violates any of the FCC's rules and regulations
governing the Licenses, the Parties agree to amend this Agreement
accordingly, and in doing so, shall, to the greatest extent possible,
preserve and maintain the respective economic benefits arising from
this Agreement.
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1.2 Licensee Management Agreement. The Parties acknowledge that the
Licensee Management Agreement imposes operational and performance
standards and requirements upon the operation of the Network and
imposes other standards and requirements upon the conduct of Licensee's
wireless telecommunications business (collectively, the "PROGRAM
REQUIREMENTS"). In performing its services hereunder, Manager agrees to
use the same degree of care in complying with the Program Requirements
as it uses in complying with the Program Requirements that cover
Manager's own wireless networks. Licensee has delivered a true and
correct copy of the Licensee Management Agreement to Manager, and
Manager has reviewed the Agreement in its entirety. Manager shall have
the right to notify Sprint PCS that Sprint PCS should deliver copies of
notices, demands, or other material written communications regarding
the operation of the Network to Manager. To the extent Manager receives
such notices, demands, or other material written communications from
Sprint PCS, Manager shall provide Licensee with copies of such
documents, promptly after Manager's receipt thereof. To the extent
Licensee receives such notices, demands, or other material
communications directly from Sprint PCS, Licensee shall provide Manager
with copies of such documents, promptly after Licensee's receipt
thereof. In particular, Licensee agrees to provide immediate written
notice to Manager of any amendment or proposed amendment to the Program
Requirements and any notices of default from Sprint PCS. To the extent
that an amendment or modification to the Program Requirements will
result in a significant incremental increase or decrease in the cost to
Manager to perform its services as described herein, the Parties agree
to negotiate, in good faith, for a corresponding modification in the
compensation to be paid to Manager hereunder. Licensee agrees to
consider and pursue in good faith any request by Manager for Licensee
to seek modifications, waivers, interpretations or clarifications of
the Program Requirements or other obligations of Licensee under the
Licensee Management Agreement. If, in connection with any proposed
change to the Program Requirements, Sprint PCS seeks the consent or
advice of Licensee, Licensee agrees to consult with Manager with
respect to such consent or advice.
1.3 Trademark License Agreement. The Parties acknowledge that Licensee has
also entered into a Trademark License Agreement with Sprint PCS that
governs the use of the Sprint brand, service marks and other
intellectual property. Manager will be responsible for Licensee's
compliance with the terms and conditions of the Trademark License
Agreement; provided, however, that (a) Manager will be relieved of such
responsibility (i) to the extent of any actions taken directly by
Licensee or its employees who are not acting under the supervision of
Manager and (ii) to the extent that Manager takes actions upon the
direct request or instruction by Licensee and (b) Manager shall have 30
days to exercise reasonable efforts to cure any violations or breaches
by Licensee of the Trademark License Agreement existing as of the date
of this Agreement, which violations and breaches are set forth on
SCHEDULE 1.3; provided further that Manager shall not be liable for any
damages arising from such existing violations which Manager is unable
to cure through its commercially reasonable efforts. Manager agrees to
use the same degree of care in complying with the Trademark License
Agreement as it uses in complying with the Trademark License Agreement,
which covers Manager's own wireless markets.
ARTICLE 2 - ENGAGEMENT OF MANAGER
2.1 Engagement. Upon the terms and conditions, and for the compensation,
set forth herein, Licensee hereby engages Manager, and Manager hereby
accepts such engagement, to provide the services described in this
Agreement and the Schedules (collectively, the "SERVICES").
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2.2 Governing Standards. Subject to the terms and conditions in this
Agreement, Manager will use commercially reasonable efforts to provide
the Services and in connection therewith will be held to that standard
of care as would be exercised under similar circumstances by other
wireless network operators in accordance with sound business principles
and practices customary to the wireless telecommunications industry
and, in addition, Manager will, in the conduct of the Services
hereunder, use substantially the same standard of care as it uses in
the operation of its own wireless network.
2.3 Compliance with Regulatory Rules. In connection with the provision of
the Services under this Agreement, Manager shall comply in all material
respects with the rules and regulations of the FCC. Each Party agrees
to immediately deliver to the other Party any material notices,
filings, orders, or other documents from the FCC which relate to the
Network, the Licenses or the business of Licensee, promptly after
receipt thereof. The Parties also agree that, in the event that a new
law or decision by a telecommunications regulatory authority at the
federal, state or local level necessitates modifications in this
Agreement, the Parties will negotiate in good faith to modify this
Agreement in light of such law or decision and in doing so, shall
attempt to preserve and maintain the respective economic benefits
arising from this Agreement.
2.4 Exclusivity. During the Term (defined below) of this Agreement, Manager
will be the only person or entity that is engaged by Licensee as a
manager or operator of any element of the Network or of Licensee's
wireless business in the BTAs.
ARTICLE 3 - NETWORK SERVICES
3.1 Network Facilities. The Parties acknowledge that Licensee will be
responsible for the purchase and ownership of (a) the towers, equipment
shelters and cabinets located at each Licensee cell site within the
BTAs (collectively, the "SITES"); (b) all of the base station
equipment, antennas and ancillary site equipment located at the Sites;
(c) all non-Site infrastructure equipment necessary for the operation
of the Network, but excluding the equipment which is owned by Manager
and which is covered by SECTION 3.2; and (d) all leasehold
improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment located at Licensee's
retail stores (the "RETAIL STORES"). Manager shall negotiate, on
Licensee's behalf, the purchase price and terms for the purchase of all
of the foregoing assets and will engage third parties, on behalf of
Licensee, to engineer and install such assets at the Sites or otherwise
and to provide other construction services. The Services to be provided
by Manager under this SECTION 3.1 shall be deemed to be Management
Services for which Manager shall be entitled to the Management Fee as
provided in SECTION 10.1. Licensee shall be the lessee of, and shall be
responsible for all lease payments under, the real property for each
Site on which Licensee owns the tower and shall be the licensee of each
Site where Licensee will collocate an antenna and other base station
equipment on a tower and real property owned by a third party.
3.2 Interconnection Arrangements. Manager will negotiate and implement
interconnection agreements, on behalf of Licensee, with the applicable
incumbent local exchange carriers ("ILECs") in the BTAs. The Parties
acknowledge that the operation of the Network will be subject to such
interconnection agreements. All payments to the ILECs required under
the interconnection agreements shall be the responsibility of Licensee
and all payments shall be made pursuant to the provisions of SECTION
12.1. The Services to be provided by Manager under this SECTION 3.2
shall be deemed to be Management Services, for which Manager shall be
entitled to the Management Fee,
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as provided in SECTION 10.1. Manager acknowledges that Sprint PCS may
arrange for interconnection in the BTAs as provided in SECTION 1.4 of
the Licensee Management Agreement.
3.3 Miscellaneous Infrastructure Provisions. At any physical location where
Manager is required to place its own equipment within Licensee's
facilities, Licensee will grant reasonable access and collocation
rights, without charge, to Manager for the purpose of the installation,
repair, maintenance, upgrade, and maintenance of Manager's equipment,
consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Licensee
shall be required to obtain all commercially reasonable consents,
permits, or other approvals that may be required by third parties in
connection with such access and rights. Licensee shall not adjust,
move, modify, or repair Manager's equipment located at any collocation
facility or otherwise, except with the prior written consent of
Manager. Manager's equipment or facility shall not be removed or
relocated by Licensee, without the prior written consent of Manager.
Licensee shall be liable for loss or damage to Manager's equipment
arising from Licensee's negligence, intentional act, unauthorized
maintenance or access. Manager's facilities and equipment shall remain
the sole and exclusive property of Manager, and nothing contained
herein shall give or convey to Licensee, any right, title, or interest
whatsoever in Manager's facilities or equipment.
3.4 Network Build-out. Licensee has developed a Build-out Plan (as defined
in the Licensee Management Agreement) for the BTAs; Manager will use
commercially reasonable efforts to implement and complete the Build-Out
Plan, including pursuant to the terms of existing contracts. Manager
acknowledges that Sprint PCS has certain rights to build portions of
the Network in the BTAs, pursuant to SECTION 2.5 of the Licensee
Management Agreement. The Services to be provided by Manager under this
SECTION 3.4 shall be deemed to be Management Services, for which
Manager shall be entitled to the Management Fee set forth in SECTION
10.1.
3.5 Microwave Relocation. Under the Licensee Management Agreement, Sprint
PCS will perform all microwave relocation required in connection with
the deployment of the Network. Licensee will be solely responsible for
reimbursement to Sprint PCS for Licensee's portion of microwave
relocation costs in accordance with SECTION 2.7 of the Licensee
Management Agreement.
3.6 Access. In connection with the performance of its Services under this
Agreement, Manager shall have full access to the Network, including
without limitation access to each Site and the equipment thereon.
3.7 Network Employees. Licensee will maintain certain Network employees
designated and approved by Manager. Manager will have full authority
over, and be primarily responsible for, building out, maintaining and
operating the Network. The Parties agree that, from time to time, it
may be necessary and desirable to utilize Manager employees to provide
Network-related services under this Agreement. Such services may
include RF redesigns, site optimizations and system check-off after
construction. The Parties agree that Manager's executive in charge of
network operations will have overall responsibility for the provision
of the network services described in ARTICLE 3. The Services to be
provided by Manager under this SECTION 3.7 shall be deemed to be
Management Services, for which Manager will receive the Management Fee
as set forth in SECTION 10.1.
3.8 Volume Discounts. Manager will use commercially reasonable efforts to
obtain for Licensee the same volume-based pricing and discounts from
vendors that Manager receives from its vendors.
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ARTICLE 4 - NETWORK OPERATIONS
4.1 Operation of the Network. Licensee shall be responsible for paying for
all items relating to the operation, performance and maintenance of the
Network, including without limitation (a) maintenance of the Sites and
the related towers and base station equipment, utility charges for the
Sites, cell site dedicated facilities (including without limitation
T-1s, DS3s, etc.), (b) the payment of all vehicle lease payments,
expenses of operation and repair, (c) all expenses relating to RF
Engineering, (c) all toll interconnection expenses, and (d) all roaming
expenses. All such payments shall be made pursuant to SECTION 12.1.
ARTICLE 5 - CUSTOMER ACTIVATION; CUSTOMER CARE; AND BILLING
5.1 Customer Activation; Customer Care/Retention; Billing Services. All
aspects of customer activation, customer care, and billing services for
customers of Licensee will be governed by SECTION 2.1 of the Licensee
Management Agreement.
5.2 Management Responsibility. The Parties agree that Manager's customer
service group will have overall responsibility for the day-to-day
provision of the customer services, including the responsibility for
interfacing with Sprint PCS with regard to Licensee's obligations under
the Licensee Management Agreement. The Services to be provided by
Manager in accordance with the preceding sentence shall be deemed to be
Management Services, for which Manager will receive the Management Fee
as set forth in SECTION 10.1.
ARTICLE 6 - SALES AND MARKETING
6.1 Sprint PCS Products and Services. Manager acknowledges that Licensee
must offer for sale, promote, and support all Sprint PCS Products and
Services (as defined in the Licensee Management Agreement), unless the
Parties otherwise agree in advance in writing, subject to the
exceptions set forth in the Licensee Management Agreement. During the
Term of this Agreement, Manager acknowledges that Licensee must
participate in the Sprint PCS National or Regional Distribution
Programs, the Sprint PCS National Accounts Program and the Sprint PCS
Roaming and InterService Area Programs. In addition, the Parties
acknowledge that the pricing of the Sprint PCS Products and Services
shall be governed by the Licensee Management Agreement.
6.2 Overall Management. Manager's senior executive in charge of sales and
marketing will have overall responsibility for the sales and marketing
services described in this ARTICLE 6, including without limitation the
responsibility of interfacing with Sprint PCS in connection with the
Licensee Management Agreement. The provision of Services by such senior
executive shall be deemed to be Management Services, for which Manager
shall receive the Management Fee, as set forth in SECTION 10.1.
6.3 Indirect Marketing Services. Manager's marketing group will perform, on
behalf of Licensee, market research and will develop (in conjunction
with Sprint PCS) collateral and other marketing material and will have
overall responsibility for local marketing activities in the Licensee
coverage areas within the BTA (the "COVERAGE AREA"). All third party
costs for such marketing activities will be the responsibility of
Licensee. To the extent that Manager directly pays such third party
expenses, Licensee shall reimburse Manager in accordance with the terms
and conditions of SECTION 11.1. The Services to be provided by Manager
under this SECTION 6.3 shall be deemed to be
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Management Services, for which Manager shall receive the Management
Fee, as provided in SECTION 10.1.
6.4 Direct Marketing Activities. Licensee shall be responsible for paying
all expenses for the development and production of marketing material
for the Licensee coverage areas, including without limitation the costs
of printing marketing material, printing marketing collateral, direct
mailings, billboards, local media, radio and television, and all other
advertising activity in the BTAs. Direct Licensee marketing expenses
also include the cost for media, direct mail, presentations,
printing/collateral, public relations, and trade shows. To the extent
that Manager directly pays for any of such expenses, Licensee shall
reimburse Manager in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth
in SECTION 11.1.
6.5 Direct Sales Representative and Sales Managers. The direct sales
representatives and sales managers for Licensee's PCS business shall be
employees of Licensee. The sales representatives and sales managers
will be selected by and report to one of Manager's executives.
6.6 Retail Stores. Licensee shall be responsible for the payment, pursuant
to the provisions of Section 12.1, of all costs and expenses associated
with the operation of Licensee Retail Stores in the BTAs. Such costs
include, without limitation, all lease and related payments for the
retail store locations, all leasehold improvements, all furniture,
fixtures and equipment, all utilities, all telephone systems and all PC
equipment/software in such locations. To the extent that Manager
directly pays any of such costs and expenses, Licensee shall reimburse
Manager upon the terms and conditions set forth in SECTION 11.1. The
sales representatives and store managers in the Retail Stores will be
employees of Licensee. These employees will be selected by and report
to one of Manager's executives (or an employee who reports directly to
such executive). Licensee acknowledges and agrees that Manager will
have the authority to make all decisions with respect to all aspects of
owning and operating the Retail Stores, including without limitation,
opening new Retail Stores, eliminating existing Retail Stores, and
selling, on behalf of Licensee, the underlying real estate with respect
to any Retail Store.
6.7 Commissions. Licensee shall be responsible for paying, pursuant to the
provisions of SECTION 12.1, for all commissions, related compensation
and related charges on the sale of PCS service by third parties
(including without limitation agents and distributors) and SPFs to
sales representatives and commissions payable to direct sales
representatives and sales representatives in the Retail Stores. To the
extent that Manager directly pays any of such commissions or charges,
Licensee shall reimburse Manager in accordance with the terms and
conditions set forth in SECTION 11.1.
6.8 Handsets. Licensee shall be responsible for the purchase, under the
direction of Manager, of all inventories of handsets and accessories
for Licensee's operations. Manager will negotiate, on behalf of
Licensee, the purchase price and terms for such purchases. Licensee
acknowledges that it is customary in the wireless industry that the
service provider (Licensee) shall be required to sell handsets to third
party retailers (sales agents and distributors) at prices that are
below the prices charged to the service provider by the manufacturer of
the handsets. Manager shall offer telephones at prices reflecting
prevailing market conditions. The financial impact of these subsidies
shall be the sole responsibility of Licensee.
6.9 Roaming Coordination. On behalf of Licensee, Manager will be
responsible for the coordination of roaming services and will monitor
the monthly roaming settlements on behalf of Licensee in
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conjunction with Sprint PCS through the Licensee Management Agreement.
The Services set forth in the foregoing sentence shall be deemed to be
Management Services, for which Manager shall be paid the Management Fee
as set forth in SECTION 10.1.
6.10 Third Party Fulfillment. On behalf of Licensee, Manager will coordinate
the fulfillment on handsets. These services will include, without
limitation, forecasting handset needs; interaction with Sprint PCS with
respect to forecasted handsets; ordering handsets on Licensee's behalf,
through Sprint PCS or BrightPoint; receiving inventory; and tracking
inventory. The Services set forth in the foregoing sentences shall be
deemed to be Management Services, for which Manager shall be paid the
Management Fee as set forth in SECTION 10.1. Licensee shall be
responsible for all charges from third parties with respect to the
warehousing, transportation and distribution of handsets to be sold by
Licensee or by its indirect sales network. To the extent that Manager
pays any of such charges, Licensee shall reimburse Manager in
accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in SECTION 11.1.
ARTICLE 7 - GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
7.1 Executive Services. Executive services provided by the President of
Manager shall be deemed to be Management Services, for which Manager
shall be entitled to the Management Fee as provided in SECTION 10.1.
7.2 Finance and Accounting. The Chief Financial Officer of Manager will
have overall responsibility for the financial services to be provided
by Manager under this Agreement. Manager will be responsible for the
following financial and accounting services: accounting and reporting;
financial planning and budgeting; treasury functions; settlements with
Sprint PCS; assistance in the preparation of federal, state and local
tax returns (the payment of such taxes being the responsibility of
Licensee); and the cash management/accounts payable services described
in ARTICLE 12. The services of the Chief Financial Officer of Manager
and other employees of Manager as outlined in this SECTION 7.2, shall
be deemed to be Management Services for which Manager shall be entitled
to the Management Fee, as set forth in SECTION 10.1.
7.3 Human Resources Services. The Human Resources department of Manager
will provide human resource services to Licensee, including staffing
functions and administration of employees. The services described in
this SECTION 7.3 shall be deemed to be Management Services, for which
Manager shall be entitled to the Management Fee, as set forth in
SECTION 10.1.
7.4 Professional Services. Manager shall have the right to engage legal,
accounting and other professionals to provide services on behalf of
Licensee. Manager shall advise Licensee if any of such professionals
also provide professional services to Manager. Licensee shall be
responsible for paying the fees and expenses of such professionals. To
the extent that Manager pays any of such costs and expenses directly,
Licensee shall reimburse Manager in accordance with the terms and
conditions of SECTION 11.1.
7.5 Forecasting. On behalf of Licensee, Manager will work cooperatively
with Sprint PCS to generate mutually acceptable forecasts of important
business metrics including traffic volumes, handset sales, subscribers,
and revenues for the Sprint PCS Products and Services. The forecasts
are for planning purposes only and do not constitute Manager's
obligation to meet the quantities forecast. The
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Services under this SECTION 7.4 shall be deemed to be Management
Services, for which Manager shall be entitled to the Management Fee as
provided in SECTION 10.1.
7.6 General and Administrative Services. Manager will be responsible for
supervising the general and administrative services to manage the
day-to-day operations of Licensee. Licensee shall be responsible for
all general and administrative costs and expenses directly related to
Licensee's operations, but no overhead of Manager will be charged to
Licensee.
ARTICLE 8 - TAXES
8.1 Tax Returns. Licensee shall be responsible for the filing of all
required federal, state, and local tax returns and similar tax filings
with regard to the assets, operation and business of Licensee. Manager
shall cooperate fully with Licensee and its accountants to provide
information within Manager's possession, which is necessary for the
preparation of such filings. Such filings will be provided to Manager
for review and approval prior to filing.
8.2 Payment of Taxes. Licensee shall have the sole responsibility to pay
all federal, state and local taxes and similar fees and charges when
due, including without limitation income taxes, sales taxes, employment
taxes and withholding payments. Manager shall have the right to pay all
such taxes, fees, and charges pursuant to the provisions of SECTION
12.1.
ARTICLE 9 - DEBT
9.1 Borrowings; Debt Service. In connection with the construction and
operation of the Network and the operation of Licensee's business, the
Parties acknowledge that Licensee will be required to borrow
substantial sums of money from third parties or from Manager or its
affiliates, including without limitation vendor financing. Licensee
shall be solely responsible for the payment of all principal, interest,
and other charges in connection with such lending transactions. Manager
shall not guarantee, pledge any of its assets, or otherwise be
obligated, primarily or secondarily, with respect to any of the
borrowings, debts, or liabilities of Licensee. No provision in this
Agreement shall be deemed to make Manager liable, directly or
indirectly, for any borrowings, debts, or liabilities of Licensee,
except to the extent specifically set forth herein.
ARTICLE 10 - MANAGEMENT SERVICES; MANAGEMENT FEE
10.1 Management Services; Fees. As set forth in this Agreement, certain
Services to be provided by Manager are deemed to be Management
Services. As full compensation for all of the Management Services
rendered by Manager under this Agreement, Licensee agrees to pay to
Manager a management fee (the "MANAGEMENT Fee"), equal to $100,000 per
month, pro rated for any portion thereof.
10.2 Payment of Management Fee. Licensee shall pay the Management Fee to
Manager within 15 days after the end of each full or partial month
during the Term of this Agreement.
ARTICLE 11 - REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES
11.1 Reimbursable Expenses. With respect to each provision in this Agreement
which requires Licensee to reimburse Manager for certain costs and
expenses incurred or paid by Manager, Manager shall
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prepare, and deliver to Licensee on or before the 15th day of each
month, an invoice, payable in thirty days, in reasonable detail, which
sets forth the reimbursable items under this Agreement for the prior
month. Manager agrees that, prior to incurring any single reimbursement
expense of greater than $50,000.00, it will obtain the prior approval
of Licensee or its duly authorized designee.
ARTICLE 12 - CASH MANAGEMENT
12.1 Licensee Bank Accounts. Licensee has established one or more bank
accounts (the "ACCOUNTS") as depositories for all of Licensee's funds.
Manager shall have the sole authority to make draws on the Accounts and
to draw under any of Licensee's credit facilities (including, but not
limited to, any lending arrangements with Manager or its affiliates),
and Licensee agrees to execute and deliver any documentation reasonably
required in connection therewith by the depository institutions at
which the Accounts are held or by the lenders for the credit
facilities. All cash receipts of Licensee, including without
limitation, debt proceeds, vendor financing proceeds, advances from
Manager and revenues from subscribers shall be deposited in the
Accounts. As part of the Services under SECTION 7.2, Manager employees
will have sole authority over such Accounts, and shall make payments
from the Accounts, on Licensee's behalf, to pay the obligations of
Licensee, including without limitation (a) the payment to Sprint PCS of
the fees and other payments under the Licensee Management Agreement;
(b) the payment of all debt service (including principal, interest and
other amounts) under any debt obligations of Licensee; (c) payments for
the purchase of equipment, towers, inventory and real estate; (d)
payments to service providers, including without limitation site
acquisition, telecommunications services (including without limitation
interconnection services, long distance services, backhaul services and
roaming services), utilities, public relations, advertising and
professional services; (e) lease or license payments for the Sites and
for the Retail Stores; (f) the payment of tax obligations imposed on
Licensee and its assets and operations; and (g) the payment of all
fees, compensation and reimbursements due to Manager under this
Agreement. Manager shall have no liability for any such payment to a
third party that it makes in good faith without gross negligence,
provided, however, that Manager shall be fully accountable for any
payments made to Manager or any of its affiliates.
ARTICLE 13 - TERM OF THE AGREEMENT
13.1 Term. The term (the "TERM") of this Agreement shall (a) commence on the
later of (i) the date all consents to the transactions contemplated by
the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization have been obtained from the
parties to the agreements listed on SCHEDULE 13.1, and (ii) the date on
which either (A) the waiting period prescribed by the Xxxx-Xxxxx-Xxxxxx
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 and the rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder (the "HSR ACT") has expired or (B) early
termination of the waiting period under the HSR Act has been granted,
and (b) continue until the consummation of the Parent Merger, subject
to earlier termination as provided in ARTICLE 16.
ARTICLE 14 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OPERATIONAL REPORTS
14.1 Financial Statements. Manager shall engage, on behalf of Licensee and
at Licensee's expense, Licensee's existing auditors, Price Waterhouse
Xxxxxx, or such other independent certified public accounting firm
reasonably acceptable to Licensee, to audit the year-end financial
statements of Licensee in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles, after each calendar year during the Term of this Agreement.
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14.2 Operational Reports. Manager shall prepare monthly operating reports in
the format of, and including the information set forth in, SCHEDULE
14.2. The monthly operations reports shall include (i) unaudited
balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, (ii) other
operating data, and (iii) a reasonably detailed summary of all payments
to Manager of any nature during the prior month.
14.3 Audit. Manager must maintain books and records to support and document
any fees, costs, expenses, or other charges due in connection with this
Agreement. The records must be retained for a period of at least three
years after the fees, costs, expenses or other charges to which such
records relate have accrued and have been paid, or such other longer
period as may be required by applicable law. On reasonable advance
notice, Manager must provide reasonable access to its appropriate
records to the independent auditors or other financial representatives
selected by Licensee for purposes of conducting an audit of the fees,
costs, expenses or other charges payable in connection with this
Agreement. Licensee will conduct the audit no more frequently than
annually. If the audit shows that Manager was underpaid, Licensee will,
unless the amount of underpayment is contested, pay to Manager the
amount of the underpayment within ten days after Manager gives Licensee
written notice of the determination of the underpayment. If the audit
determines that Manager was overpaid, Manager will, unless the amount
is contested, pay to Licensee the amount of the overpayment within ten
days after Manager determines that Manager was overpaid. To the extent
a Party contests such overpayment/underpayment, ARTICLE 22 shall apply.
To the extent that Licensee maintains independent books and records
regarding the fees, costs, expenses, or other charges due in connection
with this Agreement, Licensee must maintain such books and records and
provide access rights to Manager, on the same terms and conditions as
set forth above.
ARTICLE 15 - INDEMNIFICATION
15.1 Indemnification by Licensee. Licensee shall indemnify, defend, and hold
harmless Manager and its affiliates, employees, directors, officers,
and agents from and against all claims, demands, actions, causes of
actions, damages, liabilities, losses, and expenses (including
reasonable attorney's fees) incurred as a result of:
(i) claims for damage to property and/or personal injuries
(including death) arising out of the negligence or willful act
or omission of Licensee;
(ii) Licensee's failure to perform any of its obligations hereunder;
and
(iii) Manager's performance of its duties under this Agreement, so
long as (A) Manager acted in good faith and (B) Manager's
conduct did not constitute willful misconduct, gross
negligence, or a breach of this Agreement, IT BEING EXPRESSLY
AGREED THAT LICENSEE'S INDEMNITY HEREUNDER SHALL INCLUDE
CLAIMS, DEMANDS, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, DAMAGES,
LIABILITIES, LOSSES AND EXPENSES ARISING AS A RESULT OF THE
NEGLIGENCE (OTHER THAN GROSS NEGLIGENCE) OF MANAGER, EXCEPT AS
EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN.
15.2 Indemnification by Manager. Manager shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless Licensee and its affiliates, employees, directors, officers,
and agents from and against all claims, demands, actions, causes of
actions, damages, liabilities, losses, and expenses (including
reasonable attorney's fees) incurred as a result of claims for damages
to property and/or personal injuries (including death) to
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the extent arising out of the willful misconduct or gross negligence of
Manager or material breach of this Agreement by Manager.
Licensee agrees and acknowledges that if this Agreement is terminated
before the consummation of the Parent Merger and responsibility for the
management and operations of Licensee's business reverts to Licensee,
absent a showing of willful misconduct, gross negligence, or breach of
this Agreement by Manager, Licensee will hold Manager harmless from,
and will not assert any claims for, and Manager will not be liable for,
any damages related to business decisions made by Manager in connection
with fulfilling its duties and obligations under this Agreement.
15.3 Limitation of Liability. NO PARTY WILL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER PARTY FOR
SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, OR
LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES, ARISING FROM THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE
PARTIES UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY BREACH OF OR DEFAULT UNDER THIS
AGREEMENT.
ARTICLE 16 - DEFAULT; TERMINATION
16.1 General Default. A Party shall be deemed in default of this Agreement
upon the occurrence of any one or more of the following events (a
"DEFAULT"):
(i) the filing of bankruptcy or making a general assignment for the
benefit of creditors;
(ii) a Party fails to make a payment of money when due, which
failure continues for more than ten days after receipt of
written notice from the other Party; or
(iii) a Party fails to comply with any other covenant or agreement
set forth in this Agreement, which failure either (A) continues
for a period of more than 30 consecutive days after receipt of
written notice from the non-breaching Party specifying the
breach in reasonable detail, or (B) is of a nature which
requires more than 30 consecutive days (after receipt of
written notice from the non-breaching Party specifying the
breach in reasonable detail) to cure and continues for a period
of time greater than the shorter of (x) 60 consecutive days
after notice or (y) the period of time reasonably required to
cure; provided, that this extended cure period is only
available if the breaching Party diligently works toward a
cure.
16.2 Remedy. Upon the occurrence of a Default, the non-breaching Party may,
upon written notice to the breaching Party, terminate this Agreement
and, subject to the limitations set forth in SECTION 15.3, pursue any
other right or remedy under this Agreement, or at law or in equity.
16.3 Termination of Merger. In the event Manager determines that the Parent
Merger will not be consummated, Manager may, upon thirty days written
notice to Licensee, terminate this Agreement. In such event, the
Parties agree to cooperate to ensure an orderly transition of
management and operations of Licensee's business from Manager to
Licensee and Licensee agrees to exercise its reasonable best efforts to
take all actions required to assume such operations, including, without
limitation, hiring necessary managers and other employees, and
arranging for Licensee's financing of capital expenditures and working
capital needs. Manager shall (i) return to Licensee all business
records, documents and data of Licensee, (ii) allow Licensee reasonable
access to, and use of, Licensee's financial information on Manager's
accounting system, (iii) allow Licensee reasonable use of Manager's
accounting system for 90 days after termination of this Agreement, and
(iv)
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reasonably assist Licensee in transferring and converting Licensee
financial information from Manager's accounting system to Licensee's.
ARTICLE 17 - CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION; NON-SOLICITATION
17.1 Confidentiality. Each Party shall preserve the other Party's
confidential information disclosed to each Party in connection with
providing Service hereunder with the same degree of care it uses in
protecting its own confidential or proprietary information and shall
not disclose, directly or indirectly, such information to any third
party (other than Sprint PCS and the Members of Licensee), without the
prior written consent of the other Party.
17.2 Non-Solicitation of Employees. Each Party agrees that, during the Term
of this Agreement, and 18 months thereafter, such Party will not
solicit, entice or encourage any individual who has been an employee of
the other Party within six months prior to any such solicitation,
enticement, or encouragement, to either terminate his or her employment
with the other Party, or to become employed by, or become an
independent contractor for, such Party.
ARTICLE 18 - INSURANCE
18.1 Manager's Insurance Requirements. Manager shall, at its own expense,
obtain and keep in full force and effect at all times for the duration
of this Agreement, with a carrier or carriers reasonably satisfactory
to Licensee, insurance policies of the kinds and in the amounts
required by the Manager Management Agreement.
18.2 Licensee's Insurance Requirements. Licensee shall, at its own expense,
obtain and keep in full force and effect at all times for the duration
of this Agreement, with a carrier or carriers reasonably satisfactory
to Manager, insurance policies of the kinds and in the amounts required
by the Licensee Management Agreement. Upon request of Manager, Licensee
shall furnish Manager certificates of such insurance and/or copies of
the applicable policies.
ARTICLE 19 - FORCE MAJEURE
19.1 Force Majeure. If the performance of this Agreement is interfered with
by any circumstance beyond the reasonable control of the Party
affected, including without limitation governmental authority to grant
any consent, approval, waiver, or authorization or any delay on the
part of any governmental authority in granting any consent, approval,
waiver, or authorization, manufacturer, or equipment vendor delays or
deficiencies (including ability to process correctly calendar
date-related data), delays in repair or maintenance of cell sites due
to restricted access by third parties, delays or barriers to
construction or coverage resulting from local zoning restrictions or
frequency coordination issues with incumbent microwave users, acts of
God, such as fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural cause, terrorist
events, riots, insurrections, war or national emergency, or strikes,
boycotts, lockouts or other labor difficulties, the Party affected by
the force majeure is excused on a day-by-day basis to the extent of the
interference; provided that such Party shall use its best commercially
reasonable efforts to avoid or remove the causes of such
nonperformance.
ARTICLE 20 - ASSIGNABILITY
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20.1 Assignability. Neither Party may assign this Agreement without the
prior written consent of the other Party; provided, however, that (a)
Manager may assign this Agreement in whole or in part or may delegate
certain duties to an affiliate of Manager without the consent of
Licensee, if such affiliate agrees in writing to be bound by this
Agreement (or by the delegated duties, as the case may be), and (b)
Manager may assign all or any part of its economic benefit under this
Agreement to any of its lenders without the consent of Licensee. For
purposes of this Agreement, the term "AFFILIATE" shall mean, with
respect to a Party, any entity or person that controls, is controlled
by or is under common control with, such Party.
ARTICLE 21 - NOTICES
21.1 Notices. Any notices or other communications required or permitted to
be given by this Agreement must be given in writing and must be
personally delivered, telecopied (with an original notice delivered by
overnight courier service), or mailed by prepaid certified or
registered mail to the Party to whom such notice or communication is
directed at the address of such Party set forth on the signature page
to this Agreement. Any such notice or other communication shall be
deemed to have been given on the day it is received as aforesaid. Any
Party may change its address for purposes of this Agreement by giving
notice of such change to all other Parties pursuant to this SECTION
21.1.
ARTICLE 22 - DISPUTES; ARBITRATION
22.1 Voluntary Dispute Resolution. If Licensee has a dispute over the amount
of any fees, compensation, charges or reimbursements due or paid to
Manager under this Agreement, Licensee will nevertheless within the
required time for payment pay, pursuant to SECTION 12.1, all amounts
which are not in dispute and supply a written explanation of reasons
for disputing the unpaid amount. The Parties will cooperate in good
faith to resolve any such disputes within a 30 day period after the due
date of the original charges. All unresolved disputes and controversies
of every kind and nature between the Parties arising out of or in
connection with this Agreement as to the construction, validity,
interpretation, or meaning, performance, non-performance, enforcement,
operation, or breach shall be resolved according to the provisions of
SECTIONS 10.6 and 10.7 of the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization.
ARTICLE 23 - MISCELLANEOUS
23.1 No Partnership. This Agreement does not constitute either Party as the
agent or legal representative of the other Party and does not create a
partnership or joint venture between Manager and Licensee. Except as
provided herein, neither Party shall have any authority to enter into
an agreement for or bind the other Party in any manner whatsoever. This
Agreement confers no rights of any kind upon any third party.
23.2 Entire Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the entire understanding of
the Parties and supersedes any and all prior agreements, arrangements
or understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.
23.3 Severability. If any part of any provision of this Agreement or any
other agreement, document or writing given pursuant to or in connection
with this Agreement shall be invalid or unenforceable under applicable
law, said part shall be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity
only, without in any way affecting the remaining parts of said
provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement.
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23.4 Governing Law. This Agreement is being executed and delivered, and is
intended to be performed in Lubbock County, in the State of Texas, and
the substantive laws of Texas shall govern the validity, construction,
enforcement, and interpretation of this Agreement.
23.5 Press Releases. Neither Party shall issue a news release, public
announcement, advertisement, or other form of publicity concerning the
existence of this Agreement or the supplies or services to be provided
hereunder without obtaining the prior written approval of the other
Party.
23.6 Amendments. No provision hereof shall be altered, modified, rescinded
or limited except by written agreement expressly referring hereto and
to the provisions so altered, modified and limited and signed by all
Parties against whom such modification or limitation is asserted, nor
shall any such provision be modified or limited by course of conduct or
by usage of trade.
23.7 Binding Effect. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the
benefit of the Parties and their respective successors and assigns.
23.8 Certain Representations. Licensee represents and warrants to Manager
that neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement, nor
consummation of any of the transactions herein contemplated, nor
compliance with the terms and provisions hereof, will contravene or
conflict with any provision of law, statute, or regulation to which
Licensee is subject or any judgment, license, order, or permit
applicable to Licensee, or any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, or
other instrument to which Licensee may be subject or to which Licensee
may be a party; no consent, approval, authorization, or order of any
court, governmental authority, or third party is required in connection
with the execution and delivery by Licensee of this Agreement or to
consummate the transactions contemplated herein.
REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
SIGNATURE PAGE(S) TO FOLLOW.
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Signature Page to the Services Agreement dated as of the date first set
forth above, between Washington Oregon Wireless, LLC and Alamosa Operations,
Inc.
ALAMOSA OPERATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
__________________________
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
__________________________
Title: President
Address:
0000 Xxxxxxxxxx Xxxxxxx
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Attention: President
with copy to:
Xxxxxx and Xxxxx, LLP
000 Xxxx Xxxxxx, Xxxxx 0000
Xxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Attention: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
WASHINGTON OREGON WIRELESS, LLC
By: /s/ Xxxxxxxx Xxxxx
_______________________________________
Xxxxxxxx Xxxxx, Chief Executive Officer
Address:
0000 XX Xxxxxxx Xxxx, Xxxxx 000
Xxxx Xxxxxx, Xxxxxx 00000
Attention: Xxxxxxxx Xxxxx,
Chief Executive Officer
WASHINGTON OREGON WIRELESS, LLC
SERVICES AGREEMENT
SIGNATURE PAGE
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SCHEDULES AND EXHIBITS
Schedules
- ---------
1.3 Existing Trademark Violations
13.1 Required Consents
14.2 Monthly Operating Reports
Exhibits
- --------
A Basic Trading Areas
1 WASHINGTON OREGON WIRELESS, LLC
SERVICES AGREEMENT
17
SERVICES AGREEMENT
------------------
EXHIBIT A
---------
BASIC TRADING AREAS
WASHINGTON OREGON WIRELESS, LLC
BTA 38 Bend, OR
BTA 00 Xxxx Xxx--Xxxxx Xxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxxxxxx--Xxxxx--Xxxxxxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxxxx Xxxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxxxx--Xxxxxx Xxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxxxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxx Xxxxx, XX--Xxxxxxxxx, XX
BTA 000 Xxxxxxxxx, XX
XXX 000 Xxxxxx, XX
EXHIBIT A
