(1) The Council/franchising authority may develop rules and regulations with respect to the submission and processing of applications for a franchise. Such rules and regulations shall primarily aimed at determining the legal, financial, technical, and character qualifications of the applicant.

(2) Unless otherwise prohibited, an applicant shall pay an initial or renewal application fee as shown on the Consolidated Fee Schedule adopted by the Municipal Council. The total application fee shall be paid, unless waived, regardless of whether the applicant receives, or does not receive a franchise. The total application fee must be paid (or waived) prior to the Council/franchising authority’s formal action on the applicant’s request for a franchise.