The York, ME Planning Board has sent a proposal for a 126-foot cell tower on 14 Old Seabury Road back for revisions, citing an incomplete application and a proposed height that violates the town’s ordinance. According to Seacoastonline, the project, submitted by Bluesky Towers IV and Verizon Wireless (NYSE: VZ), aims to install a “disguised” wireless telecommunications facility. However, board members expressed doubts about the proposal’s compliance with local regulations.
Missing items reportedly include a boundary survey and a landscaping plan, as noted in a memo from peer review consultant Chris Di Matteo. In addition, according to Seacoastonline, the proposed tower exceeds the height restrictions for its location, and the property is not within one of the town’s overlay districts where towers are typically permitted.
Board member Peter Smith expressed skepticism that the structure qualifies as a “disguised” tower under the town’s Wireless Telecommunications Act, which allows certain leeway in restricted areas. Smith also doubted the proposal would succeed without securing a variance from the Appeal Board.
“It’s in an area where we’re not supposed to have monopole-type things,” Smith told Seacoastonline. “You can call it what you call it. It’s a monopole the way I see it.”
Attorney Mark Beaudoin, representing Bluesky Towers IV and Verizon, acknowledged the deficiencies in the application and pledged to return with a complete submission. Beaudoin claimed the project complies with the existing ordinance and indicated that the Lovo family, the property owners, were prepared to address concerns during the meeting.
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