Agenda Date: 04/01/2025
Subject:
Title
Resolution 30-2025: Opposing House Bill 25-1056 Local Government Permitting Wireless Telecommunications Facilities
Body
From:
James L. Becklenberg, City Manager
Prepared by:
Reid Betzing, City Attorney
Presentations:
Reid Betzing, City Attorney
PURPOSE:
Council consideration of a resolution opposing House Bill 25-1056 Local Government Permitting Wireless Telecommunications Facilities.
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
High-Quality Governance
DISCUSSION:
House Bill 25-1056 is wireless telecommunications bill that deems an application automatically approved if a local government does not approve or reject an application within 90 days or 150 days for the construction of a new cellular tower for example. Additionally, recent amendments have allowed for tolling of application review if there are not enough available resources due to reviewing other specified land use applications related to affordable or attainable housing, renewal energy, or governmental projects.
The concerns are that there is no demonstrated need for this type of legislation, and it confirms special treatment to a specific for-profit business group, telecommunication companies, at the potential expense of other projects that were submitted more timely, forcing other projects to be delayed and staffing to be focused on ensuring automatic approvals are not granted.
CML was advocating for a NO vote on HB 25-1056, although recent amendments have addressed some concerns.
Prior Actions or Discussions
At the March 18, 2025, regular meeting of council, the city attorney presented an overview of current legislation which would have an impact on municipalities, including Littleton. Council directed staff to prepare a resolution opposing HB 25-1056.
FISCAL IMPACTS:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the approval of Resolution 30-2025, opposing HB 25-1056.
ALTERNATIVES:
Council could postpone consideration of this resolution.
PROPOSED MOTION:
Pr...
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