Shorewood Village President Guy Johnson expressed concern Monday about the potential financial implications of the Village’s decision to join Milwaukee’s lawsuit against AT&T. Although the Village’s portion of the cost is only $400, Johnson believes this amount could increase if the cost of the lawsuit exceeds current estimates.
“I voted against participating in the RTC effort as a friend of the court during the possible litigation between Milwaukee and AT&T because of the possibility of getting involved over and above the approximately $400 share the Village is being told it would cost,” Johnson said in a statement. “I felt our participation should merit more assurance of limiting our litigation costs.”
In a 5-2 vote last week, the Village Board approved participation in the lawsuit. Both President Johnson and Trustee Margaret Hickey voted against the measure. Trustee Hickey did not respond to requests for comment.
At issue is AT&T’s attempt to elbow their way into the cable market, ignoring or bypassing scattered attempts by municipalities to slow the expansion. Delivery of the new TV service involved the placement of outhouse sized metal boxes in the right of way between the sidewalk and the street. AT&T claims their status as a telecom provider gives them the right to place this equipment without seeking approval from the municipality. The City of Milwaukee, joined by other surrounding municipalities, has mounted a court challenge.
This battle is being replayed in many cities across the country, as residents complain about sudden appearance of the unsightly boxes, and municipalities fret over the loss of revenue from Cable franchises. Current estimates indicated that 15 to 16 boxes will be necessary to provide service to Shorewood.
