CITY OF GRAND JUNCTION, COLORADO

RESOLUTION NO. 13-15

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER, ON BEHALF OF THE GRAND JUNCTION REGIONAL COMMUNICATION CENTER, TO SUBMIT A GRANT REQUEST TO THE MESA COUNTY FEDERAL MINERAL LEASE DISTRICT FOR A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS MASTER PLAN

RECITALS.

Wireless connectivity has become an increasingly important part of internet use. In response, more and more communities are preparing Wireless Telecommunication Master Plans (WTMPs) to help guide the development and construction of wireless infrastructure. The purpose and intent of the WTMP are similar to the goals and objectives of other long-range infrastructure plans, such as roadway improvement and the extension of water and sewer lines. The WTMP for cell sites combines land-use planning strategies with industry accepted radio frequency (RF) engineering standards to create an illustrative planning tool which complements zoning regulations. The WTMP also offers strategies to reduce cell tower infrastructure by promoting collocate wireless deployment opportunities for service providers, thus minimizing tower proliferation.

In addition to the community-wide benefits of the WTMP, the plan will be of significant importance to the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center. First responders across Mesa County rely more and more on cellular data communication in the field, as do 911 callers in an emergency situation. NextGen 911 depends on cellular communication and the future FirstNet Public Safety communication will be based on cellular wireless technology. Coverage limitations throughout Mesa County have been identified and planning by the carriers does not prioritize public safety needs.

Benefits of a WTMP are multi-faceted, addressing community, economic development and planning needs, as well as emergency service needs. A comprehensive approach to wireless development will align the needs of wireless broadband service providers with optimal infrastructure solutions that will support government and community objectives, allowing for infrastructure planning and development that will accommodate multiple providers, improve public safety and help to attract and retain residents and businesses.

The estimated cost of the WTMP is $150,000, with 50% being requested from the MCFMLD and 50% being provided by the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the City Council of the City of Grand Junction supports submitting the grant request, on behalf of the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center, to the Mesa County Federal Mineral Lease District for $75,000 for the Wireless Telecommunications Master Plan, in accordance with and pursuant to the recitals stated above and authorizes the City Manager to enter into a grant agreement with MCFMLD if the grant is awarded.

Dated this 4^th day of March  , 2015.

             /s/ Phyllis Norris      

             President of the Council

ATTEST:

/s/ Stephanie Tuin      

City Clerk