11-10-1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 10, 1997 ( #12) LEASE AGREEMENTS FOR THE TELECOMMUNICATION • ANTENNAS ON THE CITY'S WATER TOWER Moorse reported that the City is working with telecommunication providers about locating antennas on the water towers. There are two companies, Nextel and Sprint Spectrum, who are closest to reaching agreements with the City. The agreements and summarizations are included in the packet information. Moorse said there were a small number of items yet to be resolved. He asked Council for approval of the main points laid out and authorization to finalize the agreements. Moorse indicated these two providers have agreed to the parameters and finalizing the agreements. Barrett acknowledged that there is some leeway by which adjustments can be made for smaller items of issue. Jabbour asked why there was a difference in the amount of rates. Moorse said one provider was proposing 12 antennas and the other, nine. The larger number of antennas require more space. Flint asked how Moorse knows the rates are reasonable. Moorse said the rates are based on the higher end of the rates being charged in the metropolitan area. Flint asked if there was room for other providers' antennas on the water tower. Moorse said Sprint's antennas will be located on the stem below the bowl. Nextel's will be • located along the railing. The study shows there would be room for another set on the railing. Moorse noted he has been in discussions with a third provider. Another set of antennas could be located on the stem. Moorse said interference is related to both vertical and horizontal separation. Kelley asked how many vendors there were for these services. Moorse said there were probably four but the federal government is in the process of making licenses available for another 2 -3 providers. Kelley asked if the City is mandated under the Telecommunications Act to satisfy all providers. Moorse said we were. Kelley asked if the antennas could end up being located outside of the water tower. Moorse said the potential was there but with 3 -4 established, it makes it difficult for other providers to enter the service area. Kelley asked what criteria was used in negotiating what provider was chosen. Moorse said it was on a first come basis. Kelley asked about the third provider. Barrett said the third vendor, APT, had agreed to review a revised draft agreement, but has chosen to discontinue discussions at this time. Kelley asked if the terms of the agreements are identical or different. Barrett said the attempt was to keep the agreements as similar as possible. The right -of -entry, tenant . responsibility, warranty, and insurance rates are identical. There are exhibits attached to 18