Archaeological review for cell tower expected by December; NEPA approval needed before carriers connect

District staff told the board that an archaeological study required for federal NEPA review on the local cell‑tower site has been delayed; the final report is now expected by Dec. 5. The district said carriers — including Verizon and T‑Mobile — will need NEPA clearance before adding equipment to the tower.

Board members said the site already hosts a tower structure and that if carriers proceed, Verizon plans to use the existing equipment shelter while T‑Mobile has indicated it may add a separate equipment shed. Staff said the archaeological study checks for potential impacts to Native American cultural resources; the report’s findings will determine whether the tower site can clear NEPA for expanded use.

Staff said Verizon appeared ready to proceed once necessary approvals are in place, but the timing for carrier installation depends on completing the federal review and any follow‑up.