Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Telecommunications topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves 189‑foot wireless tower in northwest Lancaster County
Summary
The Planning Commission approved Special Permit 24043 to allow a 189‑foot self‑supporting cell tower for Verizon Wireless in the northwest part of Lancaster County. Applicants said the tower is needed for coverage and will not require FAA lighting at the proposed height; residents raised concerns about road access and television interference.
The Lincoln Lancaster County Planning Commission on Feb. 5, 2025, approved Special Permit 24043 to allow a self‑supporting personal wireless facility up to 189 feet tall on agricultural land in the county’s northwest corner.
Planning staff described the site as roughly a mile south of the county line on a 150‑acre property zoned Agricultural (AG). Ben Callahan of the Planning Department said the AG height limit is 35 feet and the special permit is needed to exceed that. The planned tower compound and driveway footprint totals roughly 14,000 square feet and the access drive will come off Northwest 90th Street. Staff noted the permit included conditions about distance to other towers in the area.
Andy Campan, a consultant for Verizon (KGI Wireless), described the site selection as a network decision. “This is an important site to the network for the radio frequency team at Verizon,” Campan said, explaining the site’s role in coverage and capacity.
Verizon representative Emily Malewski said the company “is looking forward to providing better service to the area and making sure people have access to technology in Lancaster County.” Neighbors testified in opposition and asked whether the tower would be lit, whether it could be erected before permits were granted, and whether the project would affect television reception. One resident recounted an earlier nearby tower permit and raised concerns about construction that preceded permitting; the county attorney clarified that prior work referenced a different application and is not part of this hearing.
In rebuttal the applicant said road work to Northwest 90th Street is included in construction plans and will be graveled and reinforced for construction access and future maintenance. On lighting, the applicant noted FAA rules require lighting for towers above 200 feet; because this design is 189 feet including the lightning rod, the tower as proposed does not require FAA lighting and “there’s no plans for it to be lit.” The applicant also said the structure is engineered to allow collocation by other carriers or county emergency services.
After closing the public hearing commissioners discussed road improvements and public safety benefits from expanded cellular coverage. The commission approved Special Permit 24043 by roll call; the motion passed (7–0). The approval includes conditions set by staff regarding setbacks, access, and coordination with the county engineer on road repairs. The commission’s action is final and may be appealed to the City Council or County Board within 14 days.
