ITEM: ____ DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS - Bryan K. Schafer, Planning and Community Development Director
Title
GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO INSTALL A 109 FOOT MONOPOLE CELL TOWER ON THE BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL PROPERTY AT 12555 UNIVERSITY AVENUE NE. VERIZON WIRELESS. (CASE FILE NO. 14-0007/SLK)
Schedule of Actions
Planning Commission (Public Hearing) |
03/11/14 |
City Council (Conditional Use Permit) |
04/03/14 |
Action Deadline |
04/20/14 |
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the Conditional Use Permit. There were no comments at the public hearing.
Background
Verizon Wireless provides digital wireless telecommunications service throughout the greater metropolitan area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, including Blaine. Verizon Wireless, like other wireless providers, continually strives to improve the quality and coverage of their service areas by constructing additional communication facilities where they currently have little or no coverage.
The applicant has identified the location of the proposed tower at 12555 University Avenue. This proposed location was decided after review of the area in which coverage is needed. Currently, the school property has a 130 foot pole that co-exists with a light standard on the athletic field. This tower was approved and constructed in 1999. Initially, Verizon attempted to collocate on the existing tower. However, there was not sufficient ground space for the Verizon equipment. Also, modification to the existing tower structurally was not possible.
The proposed tower will consist of a 109-foot monopole with concealed antennas. The proposed tower and associated equipment cabinets will be located within a 36' x 32' fenced area. Fencing around the site will be implemented for security purposes. The proposed 109-foot tower is proposed to be located on the southeast corner of the high school. The proposed tower and associated equipment will be located just east of the tennis courts.
Verizon Wireless has conducted studies within this area and concluded that this site is most favorable to their needs.
Recommendation
By motion, approve the Resolution.
Attachments
Zoning and Location Map
Site Plan
Enlarge Site Plan
Elevation Plan (2)
Narrative
Body
WHEREAS, an application has been filed by Verizon Wireless as conditional use permit Case File No. 14-0007; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held by the Blaine Planning Commission on March 11, 2014; and
WHEREAS, the Blaine Planning Commission recommends said conditional use permit be approved; and
WHEREAS, the Blaine City Council has reviewed said case on April 3, 2014.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Blaine that a conditional use permit is hereby approved per Section 33.18 of the Zoning Ordinance to install a 109 foot monopole cell tower on the Blaine High School property at 12555 University Avenue NE based on the following conditions:
1. Applicant to obtain a building permit for slab, equipment installation, and tower construction.
2. Location of proposed facility to be constructed as outlined in the attached site plan.
3. The design of the tower to be monopole as stated and shown in the application.
4. The facility must be capable of at least one co-locate with another user.
5. All trees 8 inches and larger that are removed must be replaced on the site. A landscape plan must be submitted with this information.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Blaine this 3rd day of April 2014.