The City of Lake Helen in Florida could soon be home to a 185-foot cell tower in order to improve cell coverage in the area. However, the town is divided over the potential construction of such a large tower on the land owned by a local attorney. Many residents want the improved service, while others want to preserve the town’s historical quality. According to The Daytona Beach News Journal, “The tower is proving divisive in a 125-year-old city where it’s not unusual to see people on horseback along the sides of its main streets. But its backers, including City Commissioner Vernon Burton, downplay concerns that it will create an eyesore at the entrance to the city.”
Has the landowner in this case been given a fair lease proposal for the use of his land? The proposed tower would be used by many major carriers, therefore, the value of the cell tower lease should be assessed accordingly. Vertical Consultants has worked with all types of property owners 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. Vertical Consultants has made its mission to provide our clients the data they need. While telecom companies have professionals on their side who know the true value of every tower site they control, property owners should have advocates working for them determining options to optimize their telecom assets.
(http://www.news-journalonline.com/article/20130906/NEWS/130909582?p=3&tc=pg)