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Debate over ZTA 25-11: carriers seek expedited temporary towers; residents ask tighter limits and notice
Summary
At a Sept. 16 hearing, wireless carriers and county staff supported ZTA 25-11 to create an expedited approval path for temporary telecommunications facilities; residents and public-health advocates urged stricter limits, notice requirements and alignment with existing tower standards.
The Montgomery County Council on Sept. 16 heard public testimony on ZTA 25-11, a zoning text amendment that would create a new limited use for temporary telecommunications facilities, set approval procedures, and amend provisions for telecommunications towers and temporary commercial uses. The Planning, Housing and Parks Committee scheduled a work session on Oct. 6, 2025.
Why it matters: ZTA 25-11 would create a predictable administrative path for temporary cell towers and other portable network assets used for emergencies, planned events or temporary capacity needs. Supporters said the change is needed to maintain service continuity during infrastructure repairs and large events; critics said the proposal is overly broad, raises public‑health and transparency concerns and could erode local oversight.
Planning Board and carriers: Benjamin Berberdt, representing the Montgomery County Planning Board, told the council the board supports creating a temporary‑facility category but offered edits. He said many…
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