Board approves telecom equipment at Drake Campus and airport sign exceptions on consent

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two consent items without individual hearing: a conditional-use clearance for installation of rooftop telecommunications equipment at the Drake Campus (1215 30th Street) and zoning exceptions for 14 signs connected to terminal and circulation changes at the Des Moines International Airport. Frank Dunn, planning staff, described the telecom application as adding three stealth shrouds and ancillary equipment to building rooftops at the Drake Campus and said the applicant had agreed to staff conditions. Staff recommended moving the item to consent because the equipment would be concealed within rooftop shrouds and did not involve a new monopole. The board moved both items to consent on a motion by Marlous Jones, seconded by Rhonda Cedillo, and approved the consent agenda 7-0. The chair said decisions will be mailed within about a week and reminded applicants that permits and building approvals should follow the board’s decision.