In 2018 the Missouri General Assembly passed HB 1991 also known as the “Uniform Small Wireless Facility Deployment Act.”  This legislation was brought forward because telecommunication companies believed that the market called for additional infrastructure to facilitate larger and faster data transfer requirements.  Market analysts say that 96% of all Americans own a cellphone.   Today, 81% of Americans own a smart device.  

The telecommunication companies argued that uniform costs for the installation of cell towers and associated equipment was necessary to deliver services that their customers demand.  HB 1991 was passed to address the concerns of the cost of installing new technology, including new cell towers.

Prior to 2018 the practice of the telecom industry was to attempt to use municipal assets without notice or paying fees, including attachment fees.   This legislation has granted the City of Independence the second highest wireless service equipment attachment fees in the country for non-utility municipal poles.  HB 1991 also allows the City of Independence to collect attachment fees on utility poles.

On November 20, 2017 the City Council adopted Ordinance Number 18830 allowing the City Manager to enter into agreements for small cell wireless technology.  This ordinance allows the City to facilitate responsible deployment of small cell wireless technology on Independence Power and Light poles and facilities. 

Tom Robbins and Chris White of Strategic Capitol Consulting will appear in person to provide a brief review of HB 1991 and how it applies to the City of Independence.  They will also discuss legislation passed during the 2020 Session of the Missouri General Assembly that impacts HB 1991.