Posted on 09/11/2013 2:22:42 PM PDT by matt04
The Park Ridge City Council has agreed to a deal that will pay the city $2,000 for each new utility box installed by AT&T as the company looks to expand its U-verse cable, Internet and telephone services to the community.
But some elected officials remain wary about the proposed locations of some of the large cabinet boxes and their impacts.
With 1st Ward Alderman Joe Sweeney and 7th Ward Alderman Marty Maloney absent, the council on Sept. 3 voted 5-0 in favor of a “landscape agreement” with AT&T. The company has most recently proposed installing video-ready access devices at up to 13 locations on parkways and public utility easements on private property during the first year of an initiative to offer U-verse service within the city.
Under the agreement, the city could receive $26,000 if all 13 boxes are installed. But, despite its name, language in the agreement does not require the city to use the money on landscaping or screening around the boxes which measure about 4 feet tall and 5 feet wide.
“As I understand it, we can take the money and run,” said 3rd Ward Alderman Jim Smith.
Whether the city will indeed use the funds for other purposes has not yet been decided.
(Excerpt) Read more at parkridge.suntimes.com ...
If AT&T was smart, they would add a "landscaping fee" on each bill to recoup the cost AND force the city to landscape the boxes.
After taking a look at the “About” page of the above-linked media outlet, it is my belief that the “Park Ridge” in question is somewhere near Chicago, IL. USA.
$2,000/ box for landscaping? BS.
They could install 6 small-growing, 3gal or 5gal Miscanthus “Morning Light” or Pennisteum “Fountain Grass” Ornamental Grasses around each structure, for under $350, including labor, and hide them nicely, yet allow easy access without destroying shrubs etc.
You would,be correct. It is actually right next to O’hare.
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