Minutes - Planning Commission - 07/10/2008

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language on how Elk River handles their overlay district. He noted that Ramsey will provide more options with this overlay district, which abides by 1996 FCC guidelines. Commissioner VanScoy asked whether Staff started with the existing overlay district and eliminated wetlands. Associate Planner Gladhill stated that is correct and staff also addressed gaps in service areas based on bandwidth. He noted that many people now use cellular telephones instead of landlines so it is also a matter of public safety. Chairperson Nixt stated the overlay districts identified on the revised map anticipates providing sufficient co-location capabilities to provide wireless coverage at a reasonable level and meets the 1996 FCC Act. Chairperson Nixt noted there are different levels of coverage based on proximity to the tower. He asked whether Staff, while designing the overlay districts, considered signal quality inside a structure as opposed to inside a vehicle. Associate Planner Gladhill that Bloomington changed their ordinance because in higher populated areas, towers need to be shorter. In rural areas, the tower can be higher, based o~ the number of users. He explained that as density increases, towers may be shorter but more towers may be needed. He explained Slimera technology, which is well camouflaged. Staff hopes communication companies will consider this new technology, which doesn't require the need for a high tower, thus reducing the cost. Citizen Input John Enstrom, 8702 - 181st Avenue, stated he has more bearing on power poles than anyone in the City of Ramsey because 1.5 miles of power poles and the tallest structure in Ramsey are on his property. He reported that many utility companies want to put antennas on his 280 foot tower. However, he believes this use would be detrimental to his property value because they would need 24-hour access to the tower and he does not want that to happen on this property. He stated Ramsey has power lines all over and tall aluminum towers where the antennas can be placed. He stated he lives in the country to get away from the phone and does not care if Ramsey does not have enough cellular phone coverage in his area of Ramsey. He stated he talked with the Elk River Mayor and learned they are accepting cell towers. so he would suggest they go there. Mr. Enstrom stated he attended Nowthen's first City Council meeting and learned they will accept towers and Nowthen is just across the road from his property. He suggested requiring a minimum lot size for the towers, noting it does not add to the value of the property. He stated he believes it tremendously devalues property, which may also impact residents that live one- quarter of a mile away who can see the flashing red lights. He supported the existing ordinance and to require service providers to place antennas on existing towers. Mr. Enstrom stated the financial offers are minimal, about a tank of gas a month, and questioned why you would ruin your land for that low amount. He stated the service provider needs electricity, 24-hour service Planning Commission / July 10,2008 Page 10 of 17