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Lakewood backs Ohio Municipal League in opposing AT&T tariff that would shift relocation costs to cities
Summary
The council approved a resolution authorizing Lakewood to join the Ohio Municipal League’s opposition to an AT&T tariff that would require cities to pay relocation costs for utility facilities in the public right-of-way; AT&T withdrew the filing but may refile, the law director said.
Lakewood City Council voted on Jan. 21, 2025 to join the Ohio Municipal League’s opposition to an AT&T tariff application that would have required municipalities to pay the full cost of relocating AT&T facilities within public rights of way.
Law Director Vargo told the council the tariff would have shifted relocation costs to cities; state law currently places the financial burden on the utility. The filing triggered a 30-day window at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) in which municipalities could file objections; that deadline had passed on Jan. 17, 2025. The city informed the Ohio Municipal League that it intended to join the league’s opposition in order to present stronger, coordinated opposition to the commission.
Vargo said late developments: AT&T withdrew the tariff application on the previous Friday but is in discussions with stakeholders and may refile a modified tariff. He recommended council adopt a resolution memorializing Lakewood’s intention to oppose any future filings that would shift relocation costs to local taxpayers. Council members said the issue has local implications for street design and pedestrian improvements because rights-of-way placement of utility poles and facilities affects curb bump-outs, sidewalks and other safety projects.
Council adopted Resolution 2025-01 supporting the Ohio Municipal League’s challenge to AT&T’s tariff. The vote was recorded by voice; the motion passed.
