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Board selects three firms for cell‑tower consultant interviews
Summary
After considering five proposals, the board voted to interview Kerr Russell, Urban Wireless and Varnum LLP as potential cell‑tower consultants; trustees said interviews will probe price, experience and how firms would address local coverage gaps.
The Grosse Ile Township Board voted Aug. 26 to interview three firms from five applicants for cell‑tower consultant services. The trustees directed staff to schedule interviews with Kerr Russell, Urban Wireless and Varnum LLP.
Trustees discussed the merits of several firms during the meeting. Trustee Jamieson urged the board to consider firms that address local coverage gaps; Jamieson said, "Diamond Consulting was the only one that talked about filling gaps in our current wireless routine complaint by residents." Other trustees emphasized Michigan‑based experience and references from comparable jurisdictions.
Treasurer Kevin recommended interviewing Varnum because of its long record in Michigan and national reputation; he said Varnum's rates are higher but that the firm may bring depth, including contract drafting and ordinance review. Several trustees supported Urban Wireless for price competitiveness and Kerr Russell for legal experience.
The board discussed negotiation points, including whether a vendor would seek profit‑sharing or part‑ownership of tower assets. A member of the public at the meeting warned against ceding ownership or control of township towers. The board did not award a contract at the meeting; trustees said interviews will be structured with consistent questions and reported back at a future meeting.
The motion to interview the three named firms passed by voice vote; the clerk recorded the item as approved. Staff will set interview dates and return recommendations to the board.
