ABSTRACT
The placement of cell towers at public schools poses health risks to students and faculty. Experimental research on animals and humans shows that exposure to radio frequency (RF) waves presents health hazards. The Federal Communications Commission has ratified numerous acts aimed at protecting the interests of both personal wireless service providers and coalitions who object to cell towers at public schools. The case of Wootton High School (2003–2005) is highlighted as a precedential victory for opponents of cell tower placement at schools. Federal government’s charter to give local governments decision-making authority on the matter raises inquiry into federalist discussion. Meanwhile, the federal government’s declared statutory support for personal wireless service providers and their policy brokers’ self-interests leads to examination of public administration theory. Procurement and contracting by public entities are also discussed to illustrate policies and procedures involving the cell tower placement process.
