Comments Regarding Expressions of Interest Process

[Don Margolis RepairmStem Cell Institute <Don@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear ICANN,

I would like to state my comments for the current Expressions of Interest 
("EOI") process, and appreciate the opportunity to make my views heard.

OVERALL SUPPORT OR NON-SUPPORT FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
I support Expressions of Interest It seems the best way to get something 
started in two years rather than 22 years. 

SUBMISSION FEE
There is discussion about the $55,000 (USD) submission fee.   I support a 
higher fee because it would discourage gaming the process.  Why not 50% of 
$185k, since it DOES count and they have to pay it anyway.  In any event even 
$55k is OK

MANDATORY NATURE OF EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
There is also a question about whether Expressions of Interest should be 
mandatory for those applying for a new TLD.  New TLD applicants should be 
required to submit an EOI.  Competitive disadvantage is nonsense.  What they 
(whoever they are) really mean is the whole project is hurting them and "let's 
do what we can to slow it down!"

REFUNDS
The current EOI model will provide refunds of the submission fee only in 
extraordinary circumstances, or unless ICANN is unable to accept new TLD 
applications by a particular date.  No refunds unless ICANN fails to produce 
new TLDs by 2011.  Now that I read this, I KNOW my previous guess is 
correct---this is a ploy to destroy the whole process.

COMMUNICATION PERIOD
ICANN's draft EOI model contemplates a four-month communication period prior to 
accepting EOI submissions. Four months is too long for the communications plan. 
 

PUBLICATION OF DATA
Finally, there is a question about whether data collected from EOIs should be 
made public. ICANN should publish all but some applicants who may have special 
circumstances.  I have no opinion on this subject

OTHER COMMENTS
  

Signed,
Don Margolis 
RepairmStem Cell Institute
Don@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[This comment comes via the ICANN comment form found at 
http://www.mindsandmachines.com/2010/01/let-icann-know-your-position-on-expressions-of-interest.
  This form provides brief descriptions of the issues and allows easy comment 
on the Expressions of Interest process.]