Alderman Doesn't Like Sight Of 'U-Verse' Boxes

Journal & Topics Newspapers Online: "Alderman Doesn't Like Sight Of 'U-Verse' Boxes

Representatives from AT&T at the Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, July 13 answered questions about installing the required boxes for the U-Verse cable system proposed for Park Ridge.

The company's legal department stated they believe they do not have to pay building permit fees for the 36 connection boxes it needs to serve the city. Review and permit fees would total $36,000. However, the company offered the city $1,500 per box it could spend on landscaping around the boxes, an offer of $54,000. In addition, going forward, AT&T will pay the city 6% of its gross revenue from Park Ridge residents.

Ald. Jim Allegretti (4th) spoke against the connection boxes that are frequently located in municipality parkways, calling them 'unsightly and unsafe.' He also asked if residents could request the box be placed in the rear yard instead of the front."