Hillsborough County commissioners on June 10 approved a planned-development modification to allow a wireless communication support structure on a 7.7-acre parcel in a mixed-use PD in Bloomingdale, approving setbacks, camouflage and permit review requirements.

Anne Pollock, attorney for the applicant, said the proposed 155-foot monopine tower would be located in the northeast corner of Parcel A-1, at least 250 feet from the southern property line and 400 feet from the western boundary. She told the board Hillsborough County will decommission an existing tower at Providence West Park — roughly a half mile away — and that carrier coverage gaps would result unless a new structure is permitted. Pollock said an FAA “determination of no hazard to air navigation” has been submitted.

Pollock said the tower would be camouflaged as a monopine and would include a 10-foot buffer with Type B screening around the base to minimize visual impacts. She estimated traffic to the site at six to eight trips per year and said the church on the parcel is not proposing to relocate; leasing space on its property for antennas would help the church generate revenue to remain on-site.

Staff recommended approval, noting the PD is within the urban service area and that the proposal meets telecommunication facility criteria in the comprehensive plan (staff referenced policy 4.130.1) and the permitting requirements in the land development code (section 6.110.29). Planning and the zoning hearing master found the proposal compatible and consistent with the plan and code.

Commissioners voted 7-0 to approve the PD modification; the conditions require adherence to setbacks, camouflage design, screening, and subsequent permitting review for technical compliance.