Council approves lease option to extend Little Mountain radio tower to improve emergency connectivity

Mount Vernon — The City Council on July 23 authorized the mayor to execute a lease option allowing Island County Emergency Services Center (ICOM 911) to pursue permits and siting for a 30‑foot extension atop the existing east tower at the Little Mountain Park communications compound. The extension would raise the existing 130‑foot tower to approximately 160 feet and accommodate microwave dish antennas intended to improve communications for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services in South Camano and surrounding areas.

Public Works staff member Blaine Chesterfield presented the proposal, saying the tower extension and antennas would improve a "vital link and expand critical communication services" for ICOM 911 and could also benefit Skagit 911 for connectivity issues such as Lake Kavanaugh. He told council that the state legislature provided funding for the project in February 2023, and ICOM 911 has been securing leases, drawings and studies since then. The option agreement includes a one‑time payment of $25,610 to the city (to recover legal and staff costs), monthly option rent of $1,667, and an option period of 180 days while ICOM pursues permits. Once construction is complete, a final cell tower lease agreement will be returned to council for approval.

Councilmember Mary moved to authorize the mayor to execute the option agreement; the motion passed by voice vote. Council praised the project and staff for securing state funds and coordinating with ICOM 911. Staff said the final lease agreement will include insurance and indemnity terms.

The option grants ICOM 911 time to obtain permits and does not itself authorize construction; the city will review permits and will consider the final lease when the work is complete.