Plumas County Board Moves to Halt Cell Tower Construction Amid Community Concerns

In a recent meeting of the Plumas County Board of Supervisors, significant discussions centered around the controversial placement of a cell tower near residential areas and its proximity to a tribal cemetery. The meeting, held on September 2, 2025, highlighted community concerns regarding zoning regulations and the potential health impacts of the tower.

One of the primary issues raised was the lack of compliance with setback requirements for the cell tower, which is situated within a Timberland Production Zone. According to county regulations, telecommunication facilities must maintain a setback of 1 foot for every foot of height, plus an additional 25 feet when located near residential zones. However, the exemption status of the Timberland Production Zone complicates these requirements, leading to calls for a revision of the existing code.

Community members expressed their frustrations during public comments, emphasizing the need for the board to take immediate action. Local builder Cody Clayton described the situation as a "bureaucratic nightmare," urging the supervisors to halt the project until further assessments could be made. Another resident, Scott Abrams, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a cease and desist order to prevent construction until all questions regarding health and environmental impacts are addressed.

In response to the mounting concerns, Supervisor Tom suggested that the board direct county counsel to pursue a cease and desist order while simultaneously reaching out to the involved companies for clarification on the project. This proposal received support from other board members, who recognized the urgency of the matter given the imminent construction timeline.

The board ultimately agreed to a motion that would empower the planning director and county counsel to communicate with all relevant parties and seek a legal halt to the project until further investigations could be conducted. This decision reflects a growing recognition of the need for thorough oversight in land use decisions, particularly those that may affect community health and cultural sites.

As the board moves forward, the implications of this meeting extend beyond the immediate concerns of the cell tower. It raises broader questions about land use regulations, community engagement in planning processes, and the balance between development and the preservation of cultural heritage. The supervisors' commitment to addressing these issues will be crucial in shaping the future of Plumas County's development landscape.