03-17-2016 Planning Commission Minutes

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I Planning Commission Member Norton inquired if additional cells would be needed since this one will only have a l000 foot radius. Mr. Fester stated he does not anticipate that a lot more could be added,but it is hard to say with data growth. Planning Commission Member Hallan stated this location was chosen because there are 450 students with cell phones. This cell takes care of a hot spot and will cover other areas as well, such as Bean Hole Days. Mr. Fester stated they may be back in the future, but not for 5 to to years. This will allow the tower to serve others. Public Comment Opened: There was no public comment. Public Comment Closed. A motion was made by Planning Commission Member Wilson, seconded by Planning Commission Member Hallan,to approve the Variance request to exceed the building height limit,based on the following Findings of Fact: 1. The subject property is located at 30805 Olson Street and is in the "Commercial" zone. 2. The property contains the Middle and High School campus of Independent School District #186. 3. Applicant proposes to replace an existing 25 foot high light pole with a new pole housing the light structure at approximately 25 feet in height and a 10 foot separation for the small cell antenna for a total height of 36 feet. 4. The applicant has established that there are practical difficulties in complying with the Code as there needs to be to feet of separation between the light structure and the small cell and having either the light structure or small cell at 15 feet in height is not sufficient for either lighting or adequate cell coverage. 5. The deviation from the Code will still be in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the City Code and Comprehensive Plan. 6. The Variance will not create a land use not permitted in the Commercial zone. 7. The subject property is surrounded by Commercial, Light industrial, Downtown Mixed Use and Urban Residential development. The Variance will not alter the essential character of the locality of the subject property. 8. The Variance does not appear to be for economic reasons alone and reasonable use of the property seems to exist under the Code. All members voted"aye". Motion carried. Planning Commission Member Hallan stated this cell would be placed pn.private property and assumed Verizon had permission. Mr. Fester stated they have a signed lease agreement with the School. MINUTES 2 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission March 17, 2016