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Board authorizes negotiation of cell tower lease near Tecumseh High School amid health concerns
Summary
The board authorized district leaders to negotiate a long-term lease with Verizon for a cell tower sited on the high school's south property; one trustee voted against the authorization after raising radio-frequency safety concerns and citing protests in other Michigan districts.
Board members reviewed a proposal to lease a parcel on the south end of Tecumseh High School to a carrier for a cell tower. Mr. Madison and Mr. Hilton told the board that the facilities committee was supportive of negotiating terms, but the item before the board that night was authorization to negotiate — not final contract approval.
One trustee raised concerns about radio-frequency radiation, citing protests in other Michigan districts and a 2021 D.C. Circuit court decision that directed the FCC to revisit its safety limits. "The cell antennas and cell towers should not be placed near homes or schools," the trustee said while referencing documents in the meeting packet.
Other trustees and staff said carriers had provided mitigation documentation and that federal and FDA constraints guide emissions limits. Dr. Martinez urged the board to "focus on what evidence suggests" and to help the public understand risks and benefits.
The board voted to authorize Superintendent Matt Hilton and Facilities Director Josh Madison to negotiate lease terms with Verizon, including a monthly lease rate and an annual escalator. The authorization passed on a roll call vote with one dissent: Trustee McGee voted No while other trustees voted Yes. The record shows the motion was to allow staff to negotiate and report back before any signature or final approval.
