Planning Report
Small Cellular Network Nodes
Planning & Zoning Commission
August 9, 2017
REQUEST:
Title
Receive a report and hold a discussion regarding Senate Bill 1004, a bill related to the installation of small cellular network nodes. (Munal Mauladad)
Body
BACKGROUND:
The purpose of this item is to inform the Planning and Zoning Commission regarding information related to Senate Bill 1004. The next step is to draft an ordinance and prepare a design manual in response to the bill to be presented and considered at the August 22, 2017, City Council meeting.
In the 85th Legislative Session, the Texas Legislature passed and Governor Abbott signed into law, Senate Bill 1004 (small cellular network nodes). The new law goes into effect statewide on September 1, 2017. It is also a mandate for cities on the requirements and methodology to allow wireless telecommunication companies to install small cellular nodes on new and existing utility poles within the City's right-of-way. The new law erodes the City's ability to manage its right-of-way by establishing the maximum fees cities can charge, the timing in which permits must be reviewed and approved, and prohibits the ability to deny requests or place moratoriums on additional device installations.
According to the cellular industry the network nodes are necessary as consumers continue to migrate towards solely using cellular communications in their homes and businesses. To that end, the need for additional coverage is necessary due to public demand. This is also a strategy for the telecom industry as it begins to rollout the new 5G technology.
Based on the impending timing of the new law, cities across the state are working to establish the requisite ordinances, design manuals, application forms, and internal review processes to be in compliance by September 1, 2017.
The following are highlights of the new law:
* Mandates that network nodes and their support poles to be installed in the City's rig...
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