Planning and Zoning panel recommends 286-foot Carlton cell tower over residents' objections

Madison County Planning and Zoning Commission members voted to recommend approval of a conditional-use permit for a 286-foot telecommunications tower on a wooded 11-acre parcel at 0 West Street in Carlton, sending the application to the Board of Commissioners for final action on March 3.

The proposed tower, to be built and owned by Vertical Bridge and sited to carry T‑Mobile antennas initially, is intended to fill a coverage gap in the county’s southeast corner, the applicant said. Neighbors objected at a public hearing, citing health concerns, possible drops in property values and visual impact.

Commissioners approved the recommendation after a public hearing and applicant presentation. The applicant, Andy Rotenstryke, told the commission, “I am here on behalf of a company called Vertical Bridge.” Rotenstryke said the company plans a self-supporting, three-legged design and that the 100‑by‑100‑foot fenced compound will house ground equipment. He said the parcel is heavily wooded to reduce…