Title
Consider a memorandum/resolution approving a lease agreement with BTS TOWERS, LLC. to build a 50' x 50' lease area for a monopole cell tower and utilize a 30' wide access & utility easement at Lion's Club Park.
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DATE: June 3, 2025
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Antonio Murphy, Executive Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Approve a lease agreement with BTS TOWERS, LLC. for a monopole cell tower space and utility easement at Lion's Club Park
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
On October 19, 2024, Gen 7 Engineering, LLC contacted the City of Killeen to discuss the availability of land suitable for constructing a 50' x 50' lease area for a monopole cell tower and a 30' wide access and utility easement. The anchor tenant for this project is AT&T, which has identified parcel ID 409117 located at Lion's Club Park within the designated search area. They aim to enter into a lease agreement with the City for the construction of the tower, a secured fenced area, and an access road to the site.
The easement will be perpetual, while the lease agreement will have an initial term of five years, with nine automatic five-year renewal terms, allowing for a total lease term of up to fifty years. The initial agreement includes a monthly rent payment of $2,000, with a 1.5% annual escalation. Additionally, Vertical Bridge Development, LLC will have a two-year option period, for which they will pay the City of Killeen a one-time, non-refundable fee of $2,000 in exchange for the exclusive right to execute the lease during that period. The option period allows Vertical Bridge Development, LLC time to obtain all necessary City zoning and permitting approvals, as well as comply with NEPA, FAA, FCC, and environmental regulations.
Cell towers provide significant benefits to cities by enhancing mobile communication and ensuring reliable connectivity for residents and emergency services. They improve coverage, which supports public safety and facilitates smart cit...
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