OPPOSED Allowing the existing operator to lock in such dramatic price increases smacks of a sweetheart deal which is highly inappropriate. This contract is a legal monopoly and should be subject to strict justification for rate increases. A 31% price increase every four years is equivalent to 4.6% every year and this potentially outpaces inflation or any cost increases the vendor might incur. It's just extra profit. The contract should be opened to competitive bidding. There may very well be another company that can do this and keep its price more under control. The contract could also allow for increases pegged to a recognized inflation rate. Also, is it possible that the system can be modified so there can be more than one company that manages the .com registry? Then those registries can compete for the wholesale business. I realize that's a lot of work, but that doesn't mean it can't be done.