10/14/2020- The need to expand radio coverage for Menominee County’s 911 system is meeting head to head with a major public issue in the region. Bryon Gunnerson with Gunnerson Consulting and Communication Site Service presented the Menominee County Board of Commissioners with options for establishing a new antenna that would offer better coverage in the Lake Township area. While potential sites included structures on county property or area farm land, Aquila Resources has also tentatively agreed to put up a temporary structure on their Back 40 property and eventually construct a permanent tower there on which the county would be allowed to place their antenna for a maximum of $100 annually. Gunnerson says this ultimately proves to be the best option.

Menominee County previously passed a resolution formally opposing the Back 40 project altogether and some commissioners were concerned that renting the space from the company could send conflicting messages to the community. However, Commissioner David Prestin says, its important to keep the issues separate.

The Board of Commissioners is expected to bring the item, including a formal work order for Lake Township Radio Coverage, back for further discussion and a vote at their next meeting.