FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION Septanber 19, 2011 JULIUS GENACHOWSKI CHAIRMAN The Honorable Carolyn McCarthy U.S. House ofRepresentatives 2346 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman McCarthy: Thank you for your letter regarding the Notice ofInquiry (NO!) on broadband infrastructure adopted by the Commission on April 7, 2011. We share a commitment to fostering the deployment and adoption ofadvanced technologies, including broadband, that can improve our economy and create jobs. The Commission is very aware ofthe critical roles oflocalities, states, and other federal agencies in accomplishing this critical task. The broad variety ofjurisdictions involved in managing rights-of-way access and wireless facilities siting make this a particularly complex policy matter. The NOI seeks comment on a wide range ofissues concerning key challenges and best practices in these areas. 1am pleased, therefore, that numerous cities, towns, and counties have filed comments in this proceeding, ensuring that the Commission will have a full understanding oftheir views and concerns. Based on a careful analysis ofthe record, the Commission will work with all interested parties, including local and state governments, to identify problem areas and develop solutions. The Commission's objective is to determine whether there is a need for coordinated national action to improve rights ofway and wireless facilities siting policies, and ifso, what role the Commission should assume among the array ofstakeholders. I want to assure you that the intention is not to impinge on local "home rule" or cable television franchise authority. I look forward to working with you on these issues. Your letter will be included in the record ofthis proceeding. IfI may be offurther assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. 445 12TH STREET S.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20554 • 202-418-1000