Concerns Over Cell Phone Tower in Lafayette Hill

A mobile phone company, Verizon Wireless, is seeking to construct a 100′ high cell phone tower on the property of the Barren Hill Fire Company in Lafayette Hill. To do so, the company is seeking zoning relief (variances)  from the Zoning Hearing Board in Whitemarsh Township. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, March 1st at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitemarsh Township building. There is also a hearing tonight (February 14th) at 7:00 p.m. before the Planning Commission at the township building.

The big issue is that this type of commercial activity is not permitted in the Village Commercial Zoning District. Obtaining a variance would permit such a use. The second issue is that the tower would be within 500′ of homes (residential uses). The backside of the Barren Hill Fire Company is adjacent to homes (see picture at top). The third issue is a technical issue involving ground mounted equipment.

The below letter was sent to the adjacent and nearby property owners by the Township (it has to legally notify them of the hearing). A resident also provided us a copy of a letter that sought neighbors to organize and oppose approving the zoning variances.

We will keep you updated on what happens.

 

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