Board tables Verizon proposal for Vets Park tower, directs closed‑session negotiation
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Summary
Following concerns from the Vets Park Commission about safety and park impacts, the board voted 5‑0 to table a Verizon proposal for a lump‑sum payment or lease amendment to keep a cell tower at Vets Park and asked supervisors to lead negotiations and consider hiring a professional negotiator.
The San Benito County Board on Dec. 16 tabled consideration of a Verizon proposal to accept a lump‑sum prepayment (figures reported in discussion included $429,000) or amend the Vets Park lease to reduce monthly rent in exchange for an expanded easement. The Vets Park Commission asked the board to pause the item, citing unanswered questions about a proposed 500‑square‑foot expansion of the leased footprint and potential safety and youth‑program impacts.
Members of the Board and the commission expressed concern about negotiating unilaterally and recommended closed‑session direction and professional negotiators be considered. "We are not comfortable moving forward...we want to make sure we protect our residents and the youth that are out there," a commissioner said. Several supervisors urged the board to set negotiation parameters and, if necessary, move into closed session to discuss terms.
Motion and direction: The board voted 5‑0 to table the item and asked staff to prepare parameters for closed‑session negotiations and to return with recommendations; two supervisors volunteered to lead stakeholder discussions with the Vets Park Commission. The Vets Park revenue use (maintenance account) was raised as an outstanding question staff is to clarify during follow up.