School Board rejects cell tower lease proposal from communication company

During a recent Zoom meeting held by the Teton County District in Idaho, board members engaged in a critical discussion regarding a proposed lease for a new cell tower on school property. The meeting, which took place on June 11, 2025, highlighted concerns about the implications of allowing a for-profit company to establish a presence on district land.

The primary focus of the discussion revolved around the financial and operational burdens associated with the proposed lease, which was set at a nominal fee of $1,000 per year. Board members expressed skepticism about the benefits of this arrangement, questioning why the district should subsidize a large corporation. One member noted, “I don’t see a big benefit why we should go out of the way to do this,” emphasizing the belief that the company could find alternative locations for their tower without impacting school property.

The history of the proposal was also a point of contention. Board members recounted that discussions had been ongoing for nearly two years, with various complications arising regarding land ownership and the specifics of the lease agreement. Concerns were raised about the potential loss of control over school property and the implications of having additional cell towers near the school, especially given existing towers already present at the football stadium.

Health concerns related to radiofrequency (RF) radiation were also mentioned, with one member referencing insurance industry reports that categorize RF radiation as a high risk, akin to asbestos. This raised further doubts about the appropriateness of placing another tower on school grounds.

Ultimately, the board members reached a consensus that the proposed lease did not align with the district's interests. They prepared to vote against the proposal, signaling a clear stance against the installation of the new cell tower. The discussion underscored the board's commitment to safeguarding school property and prioritizing the well-being of students and the community over corporate interests.