Locating a cell site is an act of precision, with a location carefully chosen by site engineers to optimize network performance. It’s not a surprise then that Verizon declined the Columbus City Council’s (Nebraska) request to relocate an approved 80-foot cell tower on which construction has already begun.
Last August, the city council voted unanimously in favor of the cell tower, 6-0, reports the Columbus Telegram. But after receiving complaints from residents about the location of the tower and lack of transparency in the zoning process, the city council requested that Verizon relocate the tower, a request Verizon politely declined.
“Verizon is committed to following all local, state and federal regulations when building a new cell site,” a company representative said in an e-mail statement recently published on columbustelegram.com. “Verizon will continue to move forward with the location that was approved by the city council.”
One resident, whose home is located directly across the street from the site, said the city should offer Verizon a financial incentive to move the location of the tower.
“Money talks,” said Jolene Wagner. “You’re not going to fight for the people?” she then asked rhetorically, criticizing the council’s perceived lack of resolve.
Given Verizon’s refusal to move the cell site, a potential lawsuit should the city renege on the approved contract, and the hassle of restarting the permitting process if the tower location is changed, it seems likely Verizon will continue the project as planned.
A contractor recently began installing an underground fiber optic system that will service the cell site.
December 8, 2016
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