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Lower tower proposed for Munson site
(by Joseph Koziol Jr. - November 05, 2008)
Lower tower proposed for Munson site
By JOSEPH KOZIOL JR.
Representatives of Verizon, which is planning a tower along Mayfield Road (Route 322) in Munson, have filed applications for variances from the township.
Township Zoning Inspector Timothy Kearns said the company has filed two applications for the tower proposed at Munson Valley Nursery, 9904 Mayfield Road. The two variance requests seek to allow the tower to exceed the maximum height permitted under township code and to reduce the setbacks required.
A hearing before the township's board of zoning appeals is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 20 at Town Hall.
Verizon officials originally proposed a 290-foot-high tower for the property.
At a September meeting before Township Trustees, Trustee Frank Gliha urged Verizon officials to attempt to meet the township's maximum height limitation of 200 feet.
At that time, attorney Mark Morris, who represented Verizon, said company officials could not negotiate the height of the tower because of the surrounding terrain and trees. The height is needed to allow connection with nearby towers, he said.
However, Mr. Kearns said, subsequent meetings with Verizon officials have indicated that they may be able to reduce the height. He said Verizon representatives said they could reduce the height to 275 feet and then agreed to request a 250-foot height.
The second variance revolves around the setback requirements. Township rules state the setback must be sufficient to accommodate the possible collapse of a tower, meaning a 200-foot tower should have a 200-foot setback.
Originally, Verizon had sought a 20-foot setback from adjoining property lines but conceded to township officials' request for a 40-foot setback. The company is now asking that it be permitted a 51-foot setback for the tower.
Mr. Kearns said company engineers have stated in writing that the majority of the tower is well anchored and would not fall, even in hurricane-like conditions. Company officials stated that only 51 feet of the tower present a possible danger of falling and are basing their request on that claim, he said.
Mr. Kearns said residents from Munson and surrounding communities have submitted about 75 form letters opposing the installation of the tower.
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