LAKEPORT >> The public was quite vocal during the Lakeport City Council’s meeting Tuesday before the city approved a 60-day continuance for the Verizon Wireless cell tower.
Stemming from an appeal submitted by the public regarding the installation of 72-foot cell tower at 1875 N. High St., Complete Wireless Consulting — who represents Verizon Wireless — requested the continuance to allow the company time to evaluate alternative designs and locations for the tower.
The request originally included the opportunity to look for different locations within the proposed parcel, Jenny Blocker of Complete Wireless Consulting said. However, the council was concerned the company would spend most of the time looking at solely proposed parcel, which is in the middle of the appeal process.
If a new location is determined feasible, Verizon will have to resubmit an permit application and the Lake County Planning Commission will consider the project.
“From our investigation there is no alternative location at this time,” Blocker said as the crowd protested.
If the tower is installed it would provide services for approximately 3,400 customers, Blocker said.
During public comment, no supporting opinions were offered.
“There are just better places for a cell tower,” Fred Figg told the council. The audience of approximately 30 people applauded his statement.
The council was concerned with the possibility of litigation if either the continuance was not approved, or the appeal moved forward. The council approved the continuance with a 4-1 vote, Councilman Marc Spillman dissented.
“I hate to make decision based on fear of lawsuit other than what I feel is correct,” Spillman said.
“The problem I have is they are experts … and they have been in court in numerous locations,” Councilman Kenneth Parlet said. “They have the tools, this is their job. We are just trying to make people happy.”
Parlet also asked if what is considered a feasible site is solely determined by Verizon Wireless, in the event that they say that there are no other options.
“A judge is going to decide what is feasible … some of that evidence will likely be what Verizon would put forward. But the defendant also has a right to put forward its evidence as to what other feasible locations exist.” Lakeport Attorney David Ruderman said.
Furthermore, the city can hire a consultant to determine feasibility at a cost, although Ruderman was not sure of the exact price of such services.
A second public hearing is scheduled for the council’s Sept. 1 meeting, during which potential alternative sites will be discussed and the appeal will either be approved or denied.
“We want to work with Verizon, we want to fulfill needs… and we don’t want to risk public safety because they don’t have cell phone service but we don’t want it there,” Parlet said.
Contact J. W. Burch, IV at 900-2022.
