Consider Proposal from Metro Area Repeater Association to Install Skywarn Facilities on Water Tower #2

The City has received a request from the Metro Area Repeater Association (MARA) to place their facilities within water tower # 2, located on Sunwood Drive.  This equipment would be used as a  public service by Skywarn spotters and amateur radio operators.  MARA is a volunteer/donations based organization that manages and maintains a series of radio links and repeater sites throughout the Twin Cities area.  Coverage within the northwest metro area is lacking and they have identified Ramsey, and water tower #2, as an ideal location for improved coverage within this area.  Please see attached information from MARA related their request.

They are specifically requesting space to mount their radios, batteries, antennas, and cables.  They are also requesting this space to be donated, and that the City also cover the cost of the electrical usage for these facilities as well.  They will also need access to the tower for required maintenance, repairs, and upgrades; which would need to be coordinated through the utility department during regular business hours and on-call staff during non-business hours.

Staff notified the group that we would want our consultant to review their plans and perform inspections as the work was bing performed to insure that their proposed piercings and connections would not damage the existing tower structure or coatings.  Staff contacted Bob Kollmer, who has performed inspections on all towers constructed in the City, to receive a quote for such work.  He responded that it would cost approximately $1000 - $1500, and MARA responded that this amount was basically their entire operating budget for the year.  They feel this amount may be excessive for what they believe is less than a days work so they would like to discuss the matter with the City Council.  Based upon direction we can finalize discussions with MARA and Bob Kollmer to further refine the estimates and determine whether this project is feasible at this time.

Staff doesn't believe this work would adversely affect the existing usage of the tower, or impact SCADA communication.  At a minimum they should be responsible for all costs associated with the installation and inspection of their facilities.  If they should desire access to the tower during non-business hours it would necessitate the use of all-call personnel, which would cost approximately $100 per visit.  Use of space for their facilities would also limit the available free space on the tower, and potentially impact the ability to secure new users and lease revenue.

Based upon discussion.