This must really be an event to look forward to because typically, the thing over which a system owner has the least control is the condition of the site itself. You will be able to control the pairs that are used on the site to ensure that there is no on channel, adjacent channel or off channel interference. Also you will be able to define what represents adequate filtering etc. But you have to be aware of some realities. Make sure you know who is responsible for maintenance and repair of all portion of the road or right-of-ways used to access and operate the site. Make sure that any pre-existing right-of-ways, road easements etc are not erased by the transfer. The site as it exists is undoubtedly grand fathered by the agency that controls development in the area of the site. In the 50s there was little, if any, environmental assessments required for such construction and use. To build this site anew would probably require the necessary finds from a dozen or more agencies and if your site is typical, the hoops you have to jump through for permits to augment or even change the footprint of the site, are insufferable. To be conservative, assume that not only is what you see, what you got - assume that it's all you'll ever get. Hopefully, the remaining tank is above ground. Underground tanks are a disaster waiting to happen. Diesel fuel is not particularly stable over the long term and If I had the bucks to do it, I'd convert the emergency generator to propane. If you will actually own the property, check to ensure that the site is not located in an area that is being considered by a state or federal agency for eminent domain proceedings to include in a recreation area. Check with the assessor's office to determine if the sale will change the property taxes. If there is more than one parcel involved, it is a good idea to title the parcels differently so that some agency can't merge the parcels at their whim. All considered, I think it's a terrific chance to do what you like to do and to do it right. In a message dated 6/17/2007 5:57:57 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
By George I have not seen this much talk about one topic for a while. This as really been an interesting topic. I will go in a little more on this. This former AT&T facility was built in the early in 1950's. It is one of the totally self-contained facilities with no windows or access to the outside world, expect through air-tight doors. It 2 stories 1 above and 1 below ground. It had 3 fuel tanks for its, generator, but here in Texas like most places 2 of them were removed, as they were underground tanks and AT&T did not want to pay to have them updated. The building plans and the radio license for the station place the top of the tower at 189'. No lighting or painting required. What is amazing is that the paint is in very good shape for a station that has not been in operation since the early 1970's. Yep AT&T has held on to this site for 30+ years without using it. According to records that I have seen, any enviromental issue has been taken care of, former tower paint, abatement, etc. Plus no information regarding this not having been done, has been enclosed in any of the paperwork for the sale of the facility, which I know in Texas is required to be disclosed, plus in that case, with any facility that I have dealt with on a business point, the seller is responsible for all proper repairs, or services to get the facility up to par. Tower climber certification, that is not an issue. If the ownership of the facility does fall into our hands, it will be actually owned by our parent group, which is an international emergency response organization and most members are required to be certified. I really have enjoyed all the input from those out there, and if our dream does come around, I will be sure to come back and update everyone and include photos of the facility. Maybe one day ya'll might come down and visit. ************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.
