COUNTY OF SAN MATEO

Inter-Departmental Correspondence

County Manager's Office

DATE:

March 20, 2002

BOARD MEETING DATE:

April 2, 2002

TO:

Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM:

Paul T. Scannell, Assistant County Manager

SUBJECT:

Tower Sublease Agreement with Sprint Spectrum for a Public Safety Communication Site (Lease No. 1250)

Recommendation
Adopt a Resolution authorizing the President of the Board of Supervisors to execute a Tower Sublease Agreement with Sprint Spectrum for the operation of a Public Safety Communication Facility.

Background
The Emergency Services Council Joint Powers Authority (JPA) has 21 members, one from each city in the County. In 1973 the JPA established a radio microwave system to support rapid and coordinated communications between all public safety agencies in the County.

In 1998 the JPA authorized and funded replacement of the system with a new, more comprehensive and expansive system. The new system includes a number of new microwave and radio broadcast sites. One of the new sites is located on property owned by the Montara Sanitary District and leased by Sprint Spectrum for a communication tower.

Discussion
A Tower Sublease Agreement has been negotiated for the establishment of a public safety community facility on the tower leased by Sprint Spectrum and is summarized as follows:

1.

The term is for five (5) years commencing upon construction or installation of equipment or ninety (90) days from the date of execution, whichever occurs first. The term of the agreement will automatically renew for four additional five-year terms.

2.

The premises may be used for the installation, operation and maintenance of radio communication equipment.

3.

The annual rental fee is $3,000 and is subject to annual adjustment of four (4) percent.

4.

County shall have the option to terminate the agreement with 60 days prior written notice.

5.

The County will provide and pay for electrical power and telephone service to the site.

6.

There is a mutual hold harmless provision in the agreement

County Counsel has reviewed and approved the agreement and resolution.

Vision Alignment
The lease agreement keeps the commitment of responsive, effective and collaborative government and goal number 22: County and local governments effectively communicate, collaborate and develop strategic approaches to issues affecting the entire County. The agreement contributes to this commitment and goal since it establishes a working agreement with benefits to both the County of San Mateo and Sprint Spectrum while furthering public safety.

Fiscal Impact
In January 1999 the JPA approved funding for the project with each individual agency formally committing to its share at the JPA 1999 meeting. This site is included in the overall project costs.