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Commission approves 150-foot monopole for AT&T after residents raise RF concerns
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Summary
The planning commission approved a special use permit for a 150-foot AT&T monopole in an industrial park (S25001). Residents asked about radiation exposure and proximity to homes and a school; staff and the applicant said federal agencies regulate RF emissions and the site fills a coverage gap.
The City of Tyler Planning and Zoning Commission approved Special Use Permit S25001 on July 1 to allow construction of a 150-foot monopole communications tower for AT&T Mobility in an industrial park north of Robertson Road and Bennett Avenue.
Staff told the commission the site is zoned M-1 (light industrial) and that departments anticipate no significant impact on services or facilities; 11 notices were mailed and staff reported no returns in favor or opposition as of the report date. The applicant requested a variance for an equipment cabinet setback and provided evidence that collocation within 500 feet was not feasible; staff recommended approval.
Vince Heavinger of Vincent Gerard and Associates, representing the landowner, tower owner and AT&T Mobility, described technical coverage maps showing a “gap” in AT&T service and said capacity demands from data usage motivated the facility. Heavinger said the site is set well back within an industrial complex and would expand in-building and vehicle coverage in the area.
Several residents raised health and proximity concerns. Otis Webster asked whether emissions could be limited and expressed concern about nearby housing; staff replied that the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Aviation Administration regulate radio-frequency emissions and related siting matters and that such regulation preempts local regulation of RF exposure. Brenda Dearman referenced a foreign study she said linked cell towers to cancer and argued radiation can build up over time; she asked the commission to consider community risk. Glenn Johnson identified himself as a private citizen interested in nearby development and monitoring impacts.
Staff and the applicant answered technical questions on coverage and capacity and said the tower would relieve load on nearby sites. A motion to approve S25001 passed by voice vote; the record shows approval is indefinite in term. Engineering and federal compliance requirements remain conditions of construction and operation.
