The proposed 240-foot cell tower, that has been trying to get passed for three years, again fought an uphill battle for approval at a public hearing last week. Developer Hehl Enterprises of Amesbury, Massachusetts is asking for a change in location, from a 33-acre lot that sits in the town’s rural conservation zoning district to a new contract zone that would specifically permit the project, reported the Kennebunk Post.
The reason for the tower is debatable though. Members of the Dwight family – who own the 33-acre parcel – are specifically looking to obtain better coverage for themselves. According to Larry Dwight, “I’m up there on a regular basis and while I’m on the eastern side of the Parsons Beach area I have a very poor signal. So, I took a personal interest because as a business person, I need to be online all the time for both voice and data communications. This is pure entrepreneurism, really. It strikes a balance between the people’s needs and personal needs.”
This is not sitting well with residents. During the July 10 joint Kennebunk Board of Selectmen and town planning board meeting, residents spoke up. “Mr. Dwight seeks this request to provide for his own personal financial gain to the detriment of everyone who lives in the area. He doesn’t even live here. His home is in Massachusetts. His home is not threatened by this,” said resident Sheri White.
Additionally, the Rachel Carson Wildlife Preserve in Wells, which owns land abutting the Dwight lot, opposes the project, citing a detriment to wildlife. According to Dwight’s maps of improved cell phone reception, the greatest gains will be in areas where few people would even be looking for a signal. Selectman Shiloh Schulte commented, “The Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge is going to have amazing coverage.”
Another challenge is that no wireless carrier is on board to lease space on the tower or clamoring to provide service. Board member David Smith isn’t convinced of the need. “It hasn’t been demonstrated to me that other areas where cell towers are currently allowed in wouldn’t solve the problem. And we haven’t heard from any cell companies saying, ‘Gee, we really need this,’” said Smith.
Dwight will present answers to outstanding questions during the next board meeting scheduled for August 14.
July 18, 2017
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