A vote on a proposal issued by a major cell tower company has been delayed by Roanoke City Council. The Council members are recommending that the tower company seeks other feasible locations for the tower, as many residents are concerned about the current location’s proximity to the historic district. According to WDBJ7.com, “A member from Trinity United Methodist Church spoke at Monday night’s meeting as well. The church is offering its steeple for an antenna. The offering sparked a debate at the meeting, but city staff said it will take some time and research to see if that location will work for the tower.”
If the church is deemed a viable alternative and thereby receives approval for cell tower construction, the church representatives must seek proper counsel to assist them throughout the lease negotiation process. Vertical Consultants has worked with all types of landowners, including churches and non-profit groups, who are being paid below-market value for the use of their property. The primary reason for this is the lack of information and representation provided for these entities. Ample information and representation from a true landowner advocate are key factors these industries need in order to optimize the use of their properties by the tower and telecom giants.
(http://www.wdbj7.com/news/local/roanoke-city-council-postpones-vote-on-proposed-cell-phone-tower/25370154)
