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Elko County Commission votes to oppose federal bill that would limit local control over wireless siting
Summary
The commission unanimously approved drafting a letter opposing HR 2289 (the American Broadband Deployment Act), saying the bill would preempt local authority over siting and appearance of wireless facilities and pose safety and community concerns.
The Elko County Board of Commissioners voted to draft and send a letter opposing HR 2289, known in the meeting as the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025, saying the bill would significantly limit local authority over the siting, design and operation of wireless communication infrastructure.
"I've always been a firm believer in local control for a lot of reasons," the Chair said during the discussion, adding that Elko County needs regulatory safeguards to preserve community character and safety. Staff and commissioners discussed recent local complaints about tower siting near Spring Creek and the practical safety risks if federal rules preempt local review. Public commenter Scott Gavorski, identifying himself on the record for the Oakland County Republican Party, urged the board to oppose the bill, citing safety concerns if a tower were poorly sited. The commission moved, seconded, and approved the draft opposition letter by voice vote.
