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Board hears American Tower proposal to buy high‑school cell‑tower lease and market other sites
Summary
American Tower told the Madison District board it would offer a one‑time payment to buy the district’s T‑Mobile lease at the high school and could market other district properties for collocation under a revenue‑share arrangement; trustees asked staff for the current lease and financial figures before any decision.
American Tower presented a proposal to Madison District Public Schools on Aug. 5 to purchase the district’s existing T‑Mobile lease at the high school and to market additional district properties for collocation. The company said it would either pay a one‑time lump sum or structure installment payments and would split revenue 50/50 on any new business it brings to the district.
Brian, an American Tower representative, said the company prefers to purchase existing leases and work with willing landlords rather than build new towers. “We would basically do an easement — we could pay a lump sum up front or we could do a payment over time,” he told trustees, adding that typical carrier rent averages between $2,500 and $3,000 per month and American Tower would seek to market additional sites the district authorizes. He said the company could offer either $315,000 in a lump sum or a three‑year installment option totaling $350,100 (an $85,000 payment at closing followed by three annual payments of $88,500).
Trustees asked about health risks, site responsibilities and contract terms. In response to a question about health effects, Brian said the company’s research found “no factual data … that shows any correlation” between cell towers and health problems. He also said American Tower would uphold the existing lease terms, including insurance and maintenance provisions, and asked for a five‑year window to replace a carrier if a lease were terminated.
Superintendent Patricia Perry told the board she would distribute the existing T‑Mobile lease and confirmed T‑Mobile currently pays about $1,700 per month under the district’s contract. Board members requested the lease and the company’s written proposal for review; American Tower’s representative said the offer is time‑limited and available through the end of August.
No formal action was taken. Trustees directed staff to review the lease and the company’s materials and to bring financial details and a legal review to a future meeting before any contract or sale is approved.
