Council considers 5G franchise
By Terry Murry on Monday, March 8th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
HERMISTON – The Hermiston City Council meets today (Monday) at 7 p.m. at the Hermiston Community Center. One item on the agenda is a vote on approving a new telecommunications franchise agreement with Oregon RSA #2 to operate within the city’s rights of way.
RSA #2 is the legal name for the U.S. Cellular system operating in Hermiston. The franchise agreement takes into consideration what is now known about the expansion to 5G technology. It is only for a five-year period because the new technology is still evolving. The city is also affected by Federal Communications Commission rules, which are also changing as more is known.
The proposal under consideration will place new small-cell receivers at 21 locations throughout the city. Six of those would go on existing poles.
The proposal of a senior housing cluster on property on Northwest 11th Street near the recycled water plant is prompting the council to update its zoning code definition regarding senior housing. Four new definitions are under consideration. They are assisted living, independent living, memory care, and senior housing. Those four categories would make up the cluster that is being proposed.
A limited number of chairs will be available for those wearing masks who want to attend the meeting in person.
