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Gatesville ISD in talks to host wireless tower; district would earn rental revenue if carriers sign on
Summary
Gatesville ISD is in a marketing phase with TASB and Diamond Communications about hosting a wireless tower on district property; if three carriers locate on the site the district could receive an estimated cumulative $300,000 over 10 years, presenters said.
Gatesville ISD staff told trustees that the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) and a company called Diamond Communications are marketing a program that would place wireless infrastructure on school property to improve local cellular service and provide rental income for the district.
A staff presenter said Diamond Communications would negotiate with wireless carriers to colocate antennas on a single tower; presenters said a tower can accommodate up to three carriers. Leanne (staff member) told trustees the district could receive 30% of rents if one or two carriers sign on, and 40% if three carriers colocate, and that a scenario shown in the presentation produced a cumulative revenue example of roughly $300,000 over 10 years.
Why it matters: Gatesville and other rural districts often have coverage gaps that affect classroom connectivity and community service. Board members were told the district would only be in the marketing phase at this point; no site or agreement has been chosen and the district has not committed to host a tower.
Presenters said possible locations would be near existing playing fields or along a public road so maintenance crews and carrier technicians do not need to cross student-occupied areas. Several visual options were shown that would allow the tower to be camouflaged (for example, a faux tree), but presenters said those options may change the rent distribution and reduce revenue.
Trustees asked whether the district would receive free Wi-Fi or inside-building coverage as part of the arrangement; a staff presenter said the district would not receive managed Wi-Fi service automatically but stronger outdoor service could make in-building boosting feasible. The presenters also said the leased site normally requires a secure fenced compound of about 20 by 20 feet.
No action was taken; Diamond Communications is continuing to market the concept to carriers and will present to the board if a carrier shows formal interest. Trustees asked staff to identify potential district locations and bring back more detailed scenarios before any lease decision.
The district emphasized that any community or parent concerns about visual impact, fencing, or equipment footprint would be addressed before a final decision.
