Douglas County board discusses cell tower safety near schools with community concerns

The Douglas County School District held a Regular Board Meeting on March 20, 2025, where discussions centered around the installation of cell towers on school properties and the associated safety concerns. The meeting began with a presentation addressing the potential placement of cell towers, which has become a contentious issue among board members and community stakeholders.

One of the key topics was the presence of existing cell towers near schools, with a board member referencing a high school in Nevada that has multiple towers disguised to minimize visual impact. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced in Douglas County, where local codes restrict the types of structures that can be built, limiting options to monopoles. The board expressed a desire to explore alternative designs that could better blend with the environment, such as trees or water tanks.

As the conversation progressed, board members raised concerns about the safety of students and the community regarding the proposed cell tower installations. Questions were posed about the safety data related to electromagnetic frequencies emitted by these towers, with some members requesting further information from experts to address community fears. The board acknowledged that while other schools have successfully integrated cell towers without reported issues, the safety of students remains a priority.

Public comments were invited, and several community members voiced their apprehensions about the health implications of cell towers, citing conflicting information from various experts. Some expressed a strong preference for erring on the side of caution, emphasizing the importance of protecting children and staff from potential health risks. The board recognized the need for transparency and further discussion before making any decisions.

Ultimately, the meeting concluded with a commitment to gather more data and continue discussions on the matter. The board emphasized that no final decisions would be made until all safety concerns are thoroughly addressed and community input is considered. The next steps involve further exploration of the proposed sites and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that any actions taken prioritize the health and safety of students and the community.