Benoit Introduces Bill to Ban Cell Towers at Schools

Counci member Jamie Benoit introduced a bill this week that would ban the construction of new telecommunications towers on school properties, in response to recent opposition of a proposed cell tower at Piney Orchard Elementary School. 

The bill would specifically amend the county code to make clear that telecommunications towers can't be constructed on school property. 

Provision 18-11-117 of the county code says structures should be located at least 200 feet from homes, public parks, schools or properties located in residential districts. 

News of the bill was first published in the Capital-Gazette. 

The discussion of cell towers at schools comes after Milestone Communications proposed building a tower at Piney Orchard Elementary School. The company currently has a master lease agreement with Anne Arundel County Public Schools that gives the school system payments and a share of revenue from any towers. 

Parents of Piney Orchard Elementary students have opposed a cell tower, citing concerns over health, property values and aesthetics. District 21 legislators have also urged the school system to not allow the cell tower. 

Opponents will hold an information session on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Piney Orchard Elementary School. 

Milestone has not yet filed a formal plan for a cell tower with the county. 

The county council will review Benoit's bill on Oct. 21.

See also: 

• Residents Speak Out Against Cell Tower
• County School System Posts Fact Sheet on Cell Towers
• Board Reviews Cell Tower Plans, Rejects Call to Stop Talks