Do I need a Mini Box or not?

I'm even more confused now after talking to Cox tech support.

I have the "TV Starter" package and only watch the local HD channels in zip 91962. The Cox tech told me that since I only watch local programming, that I don't need the Mini Box. But other info I've read says that everything will be encrypted, necessitating a box to descramble the signal.

So, so I need the box or not? I'd rather not use one if I'm not compelled to...