Special Meeting Called on New Cell Tower, WiFi

The Grove Industrial Development Authority has called a special meeting for 1:30 p.m. Monday, May 1, to open proposals to co-venture construction and operation of a new 250-270 foot tower cell strong enough to withstand a 150 mph wind.

The tower is to hold not less than four cell phone carriers located at various levels, connect to a T-1 line, with equipment for a new WiFi internet system to be located at the 140-150 foot level. Grove's EMS radio system will be located at the top of the self-supporting tower. Location is near the Grove Water Tower south of the elementary school.

Proposals will be opened Friday at 2:10 p.m. at City Hall.
The existing 140-foot tower will be removed and possibly located elsewhere and is part of the bid process..
The new tower and equipment is to be operational 90 days from receipt of a Notice to Proceed from the city.

At the regular monthly GIDA meeting this week, the board voted acceptance of a lease agreement transferring GIDA properties to the city, with the exception of the Civic Center, and removed the word "except" from a paragraph. The board also heard from the city's accounting firm, Carlson & Cottrell, regarding the annual audit, which found no issues.