Commissioners approve one‑year lease at $200/month for outdoor warning siren site while county evaluates relocation

The commissioners on Oct. 10 approved a one‑year lease beginning Nov. 1 for a private parcel that hosts a county outdoor warning siren pole. The motion authorizes a lease payment of $200 per month, subject to the landowner’s acceptance.

County staff told the court the siren apparatus belongs to the county, but the supporting pole stands on private property owned by Mr. and Mrs. Saenz. The county had approved a prior written lease for $1,200 per year earlier in July but the landowner later asked for an increase. Court discussion noted the cost to move the pole and the time required to secure an alternate county parcel (staff identified a county parcel near the high school as a logical relocation site).

County staff recommended a short‑term lease extension so the warning system remains active and the county can study long‑term relocation options. The court adopted a motion to approve a one‑year lease effective Nov. 1 at $200 per month; officials noted the landowner must sign the lease for it to be final.

The court also asked staff to research relocation logistics, including whether the siren uses wired or cellular activation, the cost of moving the pole and equipment, and the timeline for construction on county property. The sheriff’s office confirmed the siren unit itself is county property.

Outcome: One‑year lease approved to keep the site active while staff evaluate longer‑term options; the county will return with cost and technical information if relocation is pursued.