Verizon Wireless is proposing to install, maintain and operate a cell tower atop Flathead High School, reported Bigfork Eagle. The telecom is seeking a five-year building and rooftop lease agreement that would begin July 1 if passed by the school board.
If approved, Verizon would be responsible for the construction costs of the tower in addition to paying the school district $1,700 in monthly rent or $20,400 annually. Additionally, the proposed contract would automatically be extended for four additional five-year terms, if not terminated by Verizon.
“I think we really understand the need for something that generates revenue. If that could help our high school budget, then we need to seriously consider it,” said Flathead High School Principal Michele Paine.
The proposal addresses aesthetic concerns and structural drawings show it will not be visible from the ground. A balloon test is still needed but Paine is hopeful.
“I think we all have the image of a giant tower coming up, but if you look at the drawings and the design and what they’re using — the faux brick — it’s really going to blend in and be unobtrusive, based on the graphics we have,” Paine said.
Some residents are already raising concerns over the project, specifically related to potential health and environmental effects of exposure to RF emissions. One resident, Kay Walker, is circulating a petition on behalf of the “Committee for Responsible Information on the Health of Children and Cell Tower Exposure.”
“It’s not as black and white as people think,” Walker said.
The Kalispell Public Schools is holding a public comment period through May 11 and the school board may vote on the proposal as early as May 15.
April 25, 2018
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