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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes r MINUTES Planning and Zoning Commission CITY OF COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS April 1, 2004 6. Public hearing, discussion, and possible action on a Conditional Use Permit for the Wright Stealth Telecommunications Tower consisting of approximatly 3.175 acres located on the north side of Krenek Tap Road just east of Dartmouth Drive. (04 -62) Staff Planner Reeves presented the Staff Report. In her opening remarks, Ms. Reeves stated that the applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit for a stealth telecommunications tower designed as an 80' flag pole. She added that Staff does not support the request, pointing out that the Land Use Plan designates this area as Single Family Medium Density. Currently, the subject property is zoned as R -4 Multi- Family and developed as a single family residence, while the majority of the surrounding properties remain undeveloped. Letters of opposition were noted and the Telecommunications Act of 1966 were given to the Commission for further information, guidelines and review. There was a brief discussion regarding the distance requirements. Chairman Shafer opened the public hearing. Mike Crain, the Sprint PCS representative, made a presentation, requesting approval of the Conditional Use Permit. A lengthy discussion ensued regarding various issues and concerns. Mr. Crain explained that the equipment will be hidden from view and that the site will be landscaped, exceeding the ordinance by several 100 points, and also include a brick wall, making it aesthetic to the surrounding area. Other sites were considered and rejected due to environmental issues and the terrain. Mr. Crain explained that the tower must be west of the bypasss to reach the areas requiring service. The property owner, Arthur Wright, who resides at 1008 Holt, spoke in favor of the Conditional Use Permit, stating that it is subjective and that he believes there are many people to be served in this area by the tower. Jim stewart, managing partner of Waterwood Townhomes, located next door to the site, expressed concern over the height of the flagpole, comparing it to the height of telephone poles and the area trees. He believes the tower would have a negative impact on the area and is not in character with the surrounding properties. Chairman Shafer closed the public hearing. Commissioner Williams motioned to deny the Conditional Use Permit. Commissioner Trapani seconded the motion, stating that the proposal doesn't fit in with the scheme of what the city is trying to accomplish on Krenek Tap Road and suggested seeking an alternative. Commissioner Williams concurred. Commissioner Hall interjected that a flagpole currently doesn't make sense in this area. Chairman Shafer concurred, stating that he appreciates the need but would prefer to see how the area develops out before doing something like this on that particular site. Chairman Shafer called the question. The motion to deny carried by a vote of 5 -0 -1. FOR: Shafer, Trapani, Williams, Hall, and Reynolds. AGAINST: None. ABSTAINED: Davis. ABSENT: White