According to Verizon Wireless, the cell sites in Princeton, MA can’t keep up with the demand, which is why the company is recommending co-locating on a monopole. The special permit request is under review with the Princeton planning board, with work proposed to begin in the first half of 2018, however, there are objections to the project.
The Landmark reported that Richard Chase, whose property is adjacent to the tower site objects to the project based on the negligence of a number of stipulations included in the original consent decree when the tower was built in 2000, by American Tower.
Chase cites concerns with Verizon’s proposal including an aesthetic one. He noted that in the original decree, “all the equipment was to be painted the same color,” a light blue/gray with a flat finish. However, Verizon is proposing a different color as antennas are planned for installation underneath pole sheathing.
Chase also noted that the emergency generator was supposed to be fueled by propane or battery backup and a shroud has been missing for more than 53 days, which is in contrast to the requirement that American Tower is to maintain the shrouds.
Additionally, a certified independent consultant was supposed to be in charge of FCC compliance, including the filing of a report with a building inspector. “No report has ever been filed,” Chase said. He encouraged the planning board to table Verizon’s request until American Tower answers compliance questions.
According to Planning Board Chairman John Mirick, “We don’t want the building inspector to have to issue a cease and desist to American Tower. Now that these issues have been raised we need to address them and make sure we are comfortable with this,” he added, noting that he believes “this is a little hiccup, not a huge delay.”
January 15, 2018
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