Residents expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed 190-foot cell phone tower during a recent government meeting. The tower's location, directly south of a local resident's property, raised fears about the impact on the night sky and property values. One resident, who has enjoyed a clear view of the stars for nearly 40 years, emphasized the importance of maintaining the dark sky, stating, \"I appreciate dropping the tower, but I am concerned about the night sky.\"

Joseph Dvorak, a neighbor, highlighted the tower's potential visibility due to the area's topography, arguing that the application did not adequately explore alternative designs that could minimize its height and visibility. He pointed out that the land use code requires applicants to demonstrate that other options, such as shorter towers, are not viable. Dvorak questioned the necessity of a 190-foot structure, suggesting that a shorter monopine tower could suffice for the intended cell coverage.

Matt Lee, another property owner, raised concerns about increased traffic during construction and the legal status of easements on his land. He expressed apprehension about unauthorized access and the potential for property value depreciation due to the tower's presence.

In response to these concerns, officials clarified that the tower would not have lights, preserving the night sky, and that maintenance visits would be infrequent, typically occurring quarterly. They also acknowledged the need to evaluate the coverage capabilities of shorter tower options, suggesting that a height of 150 feet might be more appropriate if it meets coverage requirements.

The discussion underscored the community's desire for improved cell service while balancing the need to protect the local environment and property values. The next steps involve further analysis of the tower's height and its implications for both coverage and visibility, with a follow-up expected in the coming weeks.