Hernando schools consider leasing land for cell towers

The Hernando County School Board voted on Oct. 20 to authorize a letter of interest to Milestone Towers, a Virginia-based company that builds wireless infrastructure. This move could allow the district to earn revenue by leasing space for cellular towers on school property.

Milestone’s presentation projected a guaranteed annual payment of $12,000 for each tower site. If three wireless carriers sign on, the district could see potential annual revenue of about $33,000. The company would also pay a one-time site fee of roughly $30,000.

Under the proposed arrangement, Milestone would handle all costs related to identifying sites, engineering studies, permits, construction, and maintenance. The district would retain ownership of the land and would have no upfront financial investment or responsibility for the equipment.

Joseph Amato, the district’s director of technology and information services, noted that cellular coverage in the area is currently weak, even on school campuses. He explained that Milestone would create a coverage map to identify gaps and gauge interest from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Better coverage would also aid communications during emergencies.

Board member Shannon Rodriguez asked where the towers would be located. Amato said Eastside Elementary, Central High, and other locations are under consideration. Rodriguez expressed concern about health effects and property issues, asking if radio frequency assessments would be conducted in classrooms and on playgrounds. Amato confirmed that such assessments would take place.

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 limits local governments' ability to deny tower permits based on radio frequency health effects if FCC standards are met. This legal framework has been central to debates over towers on school grounds for decades.

Board member Mark Johnson referenced a 2022 dispute in Spring Hill where neighbors opposed a tower near Temple Beth David due to health and traffic concerns. The county commission denied the permit 4-0 at that time. Johnson asked about storm safety, and Amato stated the towers are rated to withstand Category 5 hurricanes.

Chairwoman Kayce Hawkins confirmed the board had consensus to move forward. The district’s attorney, Robert Myers, offered to assist with legal issues, while board member Susan Duval requested more information before a final decision.